Networking

VoIP made itself heard in 2004, and we got the message loud and clear. We tested highly scalable IP phone systems from traditional PBX vendors Avaya and Siemens, as well as smaller-scale solutions from relative newcomers such as AIP Communications and Zultys. In most cases, we found the products surprisingly easy to set up and manage, although not typically interoperable. We’re hoping to see more standards-based solutions similar to the Zultys MX250 in 2005. We also reviewed tools that monitor VoIP networks effectively, along with scads of traditional network analysis products.

Other developments in 2004 included new highs in WAN acceleration, thanks to vendors such as Riverbed and Tacit Networks; Dell’s first core switch, the PowerConnect 6024; and laudable attempts at managing heterogeneous network devices, especially from Rendition Networks.

Improvements in WLAN security and management from vendors such as Trapeze Networks and AirDefense certainly weren’t shabby, either. These and other WLAN vendors are delivering stronger policy-based management tools and more scalable distributed systems. We’ll be following these trends closely in the coming year.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Accelerators and load balancers

Coyote Point Equalizer E350
Coyote Point Systems
Excellent 8.6
Cost: Starts at $5,995
Bottom Line: This inexpensive, easy-to-use appliance delivers excellent basic load balancing. If your bandwidth usage isn’t high and you have budget constraints, Coyote Point Equalizer E350 is a solid solution.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

NetScaler 9400 Secure Application Switch
NetScaler
Excellent 8.7
Cost: Starts at $35,000
Bottom Line: A sophisticated appliance, the NetScaler 9400 produces dramatic improvements in response times and bandwidth usage. In addition to load balancing and Web acceleration, the solution delivers application-level firewall features and SSL VPN capabilities.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Redline Networks E|X 3250 Version 3.3
Redline Networks
Excellent 8.9
Cost: With OverDrive, $34,995
Bottom Line: The Redline E|X 3250 provides faster response times and lower bandwidth usage for Web sites and comes equipped with the usual load-balancing and application-protection features. The OverDrive programming environment enables flexible response with minimal programming to client needs.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -