Cisco boosts connectivity

Cisco is expected to announce new hardware modules for its Integrated Services Router line that add network management and monitoring, as well as connectivity options, such as cable broadband, DSL and metro Ethernet.

The new modules for the ISR 1800, 2800 and 3800 series routers are a Network Analysis Module (NAM) and WAN interface cards that support cable modem, metro Ethernet and high-bit-rate DSL links. An upgrade to the ISR Services Engine blades, used for various add-on features such as VoIP and content networking, also is planned.

The NAM card for the ISR provides the same features as the NAM card previously available for the Catalyst 6500 switch - real-time traffic monitoring, packet capture tools, and inspection of capabilities for individual user and application flows, using Cisco's NetFlow network management and analysis technology.

To continue reading, register here and become an Insider. You'll get free access to premium content from CIO, Computerworld, CSO, InfoWorld, and Network World. See more Insider content or sign in.

Cisco is expected to announce new hardware modules for its Integrated Services Router line that add network management and monitoring, as well as connectivity options, such as cable broadband, DSL and metro Ethernet.

The new modules for the ISR 1800, 2800 and 3800 series routers are a Network Analysis Module (NAM) and WAN interface cards that support cable modem, metro Ethernet and high-bit-rate DSL links. An upgrade to the ISR Services Engine blades, used for various add-on features such as VoIP and content networking, also is planned.

The NAM card for the ISR provides the same features as the NAM card previously available for the Catalyst 6500 switch - real-time traffic monitoring, packet capture tools, and inspection of capabilities for individual user and application flows, using Cisco's NetFlow network management and analysis technology.

"The NAM module replaces having to run around with a sniffer to collect data about traffic patterns," says Zeus Kerravala, an analyst with Yankee Group.

The previous NAM module was able only to provide traffic analysis for LAN or campus networks where a NAM-enabled Catalyst 6500 switch was operating. Putting a NAM blade into a branch-office router could help businesses get a better handle on traffic problems and troubleshooting for the WAN, he adds.