DEVOPSdigest

NETSCOUT SYSTEMS announced the general availability of the Test Lab Optimization platform that delivers Layer 1 matrix switching, plus Layer 2-4 intelligent functionality.

The NETSCOUT TestStream Management Software, version 3.5, and new T-Blade are added to the highly successful nGenius 3900 Series Packet Flow Switch (PFS) family, to deliver a new solution enabling customers to optimize network and application test labs using a single platform. The Test Lab Optimization platform meets the needs of equipment manufacturers, enterprise customers and service providers managing a dedicated high-performance test lab or consolidated global test labs operating in a Lab as a Service (LaaS) model.

“Today’s test labs need to do much more with less,” said Brian McCann, VP and GM, Packet Flow Switch Business at NETSCOUT. “The 3900 Series Packet Flow Switch with our new TestStream Management Software enables lab managers to meet today’s growing challenges in a single platform that simultaneously improves resource utilization, reduces test cycle time, and saves on both capital and operational expenditures. Testing for 10, 40, and 100G network applications can be completed with fewer test generation tools and full connectivity automation.”

Utilizing Layer 1-4 functionality and integrated intelligence, the NETSCOUT nGenius 3900 Series Packet Flow Switch for Test Lab Optimization delivers a centralized platform that can scale up to 576 ports of non-blocking connectivity. Combined with TestStream Management Software, the Test Lab Optimization platform helps users improve their network and application test lab efficiency, speed, and performance.

The Test Lab Optimization platform’s innovative approach combines Layer 1 switching with Layer 2-4 intelligence in order to provide functions that are not practical using legacy technology. Layer 2-4 functions, such as test stream aggregation and rate conversion, or enabling a tap with a filtered data feed for analysis can be provided via a software interface and without requiring physical access to the lab. With the addition of unique Layer 2-4 functions and TestStream Management Software, NETSCOUT provides a highly scalable platform that’s ideal for optimizing test labs in efficient and innovative ways.

Advantages of an optimized test solution:

- Increase network and application test lab efficiency

- Reduce time required to set up and test

- Improve overall lab performance

- Provide savings in both CAPEX and OPEX

The TestStream Management Software provides an easy-to-use drag-and-drop user interface to define and manage topologies using Layer 1 matrix switching and to apply Layer 2-4 functions to optimize test labs. A Command Line Interface (CLI) is also available to integrate with third-party test lab automation solutions.