Overview of SPAN and mirror port monitoring
An Exinda Appliance can operate out-of-path or ON-LANLocal area network mode with any hub or switch that supports port mirroring or SPAN ports. Use this topology when you need to monitor traffic without installing the Exinda Appliance inlineIn network terminology, an inline device receives packets and forwards them to their intended destination. Routers, firewalls and switches are examples of inline devices. The inline designation also alerts you the device is critical to network function. If the device goes down, network traffic is affected.. The Exinda Appliance monitors and reports on all applications present on the SPAN/mirror port. It enables regular network audits and provides great flexibility in restricted and complex network environments.
Topology diagram showing how to cable MGMT and Mirror ports for Mirror/SPAN port monitoring.
To configure Mirror/SPAN port monitoring, perform the following tasks:
- Configuring Mirror Port Mode.
- Enabling Mirror/SPAN traffic monitoring.
- Configuring internal subnets as internal network objects.
After enabling Mirror/SPAN monitoring and defining the appropriate Internal Network Objects, the Exinda appliance monitors traffic received on the Mirror/SPAN receiving port as if it were inline.
NOTE
Exinda interface reports will be blank because the Exinda Appliance has no insight into packet direction at the interface level.