Distributed branch topology: multiple sites with multiple Exinda Appliances

Deploying multiple Exinda Appliances provides a lot of flexibility for monitoring and shaping network traffic across multiple network sites. You also gain the ability to enable Exinda's Application Acceleration feature if your Exinda Appliance model supports it.

This topology requires at least two Exinda Appliances. In the network diagram below, there are three Exindas, once at each site. The sites are connected to the Internet and to each other via direct routes.

All the network traffic at each site passes through an Exinda Appliance on its way to and from the Internet and WANWide Area Network. The Exindas may work together to enhance network performance and accelerate specific network traffic.

Distributed Branch topology deployment

Installing the Exinda Appliance in a distributed branch topology

At each site:

1. Connect the WAN port to your router/firewall using a crossover cable.
2. Connect the LANLocal area network port to the LAN switch.
3. Leave the Exinda Appliance powered off.
4. Check for Internet connectivity.
5. Turn on the Exinda Appliance and check for Internet connectivity again.

There are a few Exinda Appliance basics to keep in mind while planning a deployment. For more information refer to Basic characteristics and behaviors of Exinda Appliances.

Capabilities provided by a distributed branch topology

In this topology, the Exinda appliances:

• Monitor and control all traffic to and from the Internet and WAN.
• May accelerate traffic between all WAN sites.
• Monitor distribution of application traffic between all sites.
• Prioritize and manage application performance in a fully meshed environment.
• Control or block P2P and recreational applications site-wide.

Limitation of the distributed branch topology

None. This is the most flexible and robust topology.