Reduces probe solution costs with advanced deduplication and metadata capabilities
Pros and Cons
"The most valuable features for me include deduplication, metadata processing, and the ability to perform media services."
"I would recommend IxNetwork VE to others."
"The data center facet of IxNetwork Packet Broker can be improved, particularly concerning mapping from the cache."
"The data center facet of IxNetwork Packet Broker can be improved, particularly concerning mapping from the cache."
What is our primary use case?
The use case for this tool is generally for enterprise customers who have more than two monitoring tools. These customers obtain information from switches that have a limitation of up to two-point mirroring or span ports. Therefore, if I have more than two monitoring tools, I need a network packet broker.
How has it helped my organization?
By using the Bitbox as a medium for capturing data, my organization can reduce the pricing for the probe solution.
What is most valuable?
The most valuable features for me include deduplication, metadata processing, and the ability to perform media services. I typically offer these features to my customers.
What needs improvement?
The data center facet of IxNetworkPacket Broker can be improved, particularly concerning mapping from the cache.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have recently started using IxNetwork VE after moving to my company about three to four months ago.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The stability of IxNetwork is consistent for me, particularly considering the different processing needs for different modules. It is very stable.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
I would rate the scalability of this solution as high scalability.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup of my Network Packet Broker implementation was not too complicated. It is straightforward.
What was our ROI?
Regarding ROI, using Keysight for the KRF is beneficial for me because the probe solution can function with lower specifications.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The pricing of this solution is usually quite high.
What other advice do I have?
I would recommend IxNetwork VE to others. By using the Network Packet Broker, especially for enterprise customers, it can reduce the pricing for the probe solution and make monitoring more efficient.
I would rate the solution an eight out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer. Reseller
The separation into modules for tasks like traffic analysis and security is advantageous
Pros and Cons
"I find the modularity of Spirent TestCenter to be a strong point."
"I find the modularity of Spirent TestCenter to be a strong point."
"The compact type for different transceivers like SFP, QSFP, and others is a bit limited."
"The compact type for different transceivers like SFP, QSFP, and others is a bit limited."
What is our primary use case?
I have used Spirent TestCenter for testing optical transceivers and checking interoperability tests. I utilize it as an auto-transfer test and for traffic monitoring and checking.
What is most valuable?
I find the modularity of Spirent TestCenter to be a strong point. The separation into modules for tasks like traffic analysis and security is advantageous, as it allows us to use only the modules we need, which can be more cost-effective compared to other products that bundle functions together. I appreciate the ability to have an optical signal tester for full bandwidth measurements.
What needs improvement?
The compact type for different transceivers like SFP, QSFP, and others is a bit limited. I would ask Spirent to consider a broader range of form factor types, like OSFP or QSFPPD. An easier-to-use, customized test report form would improve the user's experience, as current forms could be more visually appealing. Furthermore, a more intuitive control platform would enhance interfacing.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been working with Spirent TestCenter for around ten years, having experience for about five years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
I rate the stability of Spirent TestCenter as nine out of ten. It provides a reliable performance for our needs.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Scalability is adequate, however, there might be some room for improvement as I rate it as eight out of ten.
How are customer service and support?
Spirent's technical support is rated ten out of ten. I am satisfied with their service.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Positive
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
I previously used Q q q five and QSight. They are about the same as Spirent TestCenter.
How was the initial setup?
The setup is okay. In comparison to other solutions, it is manageable and not very complex.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
Pricing for Spirent TestCenter is considered a lower price point, which is a positive aspect.
What other advice do I have?
I recommend Spirent TestCenter to others. It is suitable for both SMB and enterprise-level companies. I would rate the overall solution as nine out of ten.
Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer. Partner
