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Packet Broker

Intelligent Traffic Management for Complete Network Visibility

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What is a Network Packet Broker?

A network packet broker (NPB) is a network device with copper and/or fiber interfaces that directs network traffic from switch SPAN ports and/or Network TAPs between two connected routers and/or switches.

It manipulates that traffic to allow the more efficient use of network security and performance tools, both inline and passive. NPBs are essential for organizations that need comprehensive visibility into their network traffic.

  • Traffic aggregation from multiple sources
  • Intelligent packet filtering and distribution
  • Enhanced security and performance monitoring
Network Packet Broker Diagram
Disaggregated Packet Broker

What is a Disaggregated Open Packet Broker?

Much like the switches and routers from which they collect traffic, network packet brokers have traditionally been locked-in systems. However, the networking industry is evolving.

The new Disaggregated Open Packet Brokers are intended to accelerate the deployment of management, monitoring, and security tools, eliminate blind spots in conventional architectures, and provide high-scale, multi-speed support, a comprehensive feature set, and a competitive total cost of ownership (TCO).

E.C.I. Networks offers disaggregated and open network packet broker NOS that can run on off-the-shelf, open network hardware, which offers you flexibility and affordability.

How Traffic Flows Through the NPB

A five-stage pipeline that gives your tools exactly the traffic they need, nothing more, nothing less.

Ingress

Traffic arrives from TAPs or SPAN ports at full line rate

→
Aggregate

Multiple input streams merged into unified flows

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Filter

L2–L4 rules, regex, VLAN tags and GTP stripping

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Distribute

Flow-aware load balancing across monitoring ports

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Tools

IDS, NPM, DLP, forensics each see relevant slices

High-Performance Visibility

First to market with 64 ports 100/400G Packet Broker

Our Packet Broker Solutions

Choose the solution that fits your networking needs

PacketMaestro

Enterprise-grade packet broker for comprehensive network visibility and traffic management.

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Most Popular

PacketMaestro Pro

Advanced features for high-performance environments requiring maximum throughput.

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MaestroVision

Intuitive GUI for streamlined management and monitoring of your network infrastructure.

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Key Benefits

Seamless Migration

Facilitates a smooth transition to open networks, enhancing efficiency and drastically reducing CAPEX/OPEX costs.

Enhanced Flexibility

DPB architecture decouples hardware and software, empowering independent component choices and upgrades, including crucial elements like power supplies and FANs.

Open & OCP Compliant Hardware

Built on open hardware principles and adhering to OCP standards, DPBs simplify installation and offer diverse software options.

Containerization with SONiC

Supports containerization for flexible application deployment, seamlessly integrating with SONiC for efficient network management.

Multipurpose Open Hardware

Goes beyond packet broker functions — doubles as a Data Center switch, reducing sparing inventory and lowering costs.

NPB Icon

Features

  • First to market with 64 ports 100/400G
  • Open Hardware
  • Container on Open-Source NOS SONiC
  • Traffic Aggregation, Packet Replication
  • Flow-Aware Load Balancing
  • Multiple simultaneous filters
  • Source port labeling (VLAN tagging)
  • Supports IPv4 & IPv6
  • Realtime Port/Packet statistics
  • SONiC CLI, Web UI, REST-API
  • Multiple port speeds up to 400G
  • Port breakout options available
  • AC & DC PSU Options
  • Multiple airflow options

Management

Flexible management options to fit any workflow — from hands-on CLI to enterprise SDN orchestration.

Command Line Interface (CLI)

Full control through powerful CLI commands

Web-based User Interface

User-friendly GUI for intuitive management

SDN Controller Visibility Fabric

Available for large deployments

REST API

For 3rd party integration and support

Management GUI

Ordering Options

Find the solution fit for your networking needs

Hardware & Software

  • Bundles available
  • AC & DC PSU options
  • Airflow options
  • Perpetual license
  • Maintenance & Support optional
Shop Hardware

Software Only

  • Perpetual license
  • Pay-as-you-grow model
  • Maintenance & Support optional
  • Choose your own hardware
  • HCL Hardware Certified list available
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Want to learn more about our Open Smartswitch?

Discover how our open networking solutions can transform your infrastructure.

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