Force10 Networks Introduces Management System to Simplify Network Operations and Reduce Associated Costs.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

NetWorld+Interop 2004 Las Vegas 

MILPITAS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 10, 2004

Force10 Networks, the pioneer in high performance switching and routing, today introduced the Force10 Management System (FTMS), a flexible graphical management tool that simplifies network management and reduces operating costs. With full management functionality and inventory control features to easily track and manage network devices, the FTMS provides network operators with the information to ensure predictable network performance.

"In high performance networking environments, management systems that provide detailed information about the network and equipment are crucial to efficient operations," said Debra Curtis, research vice president at Gartner. "With the right proactive performance data and fault exception notification, network operators can focus their attention on optimizing their network for the business."

As a 100 percent Java-based tool, the FTMS is platform neutral and delivers fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security (FCAPS) management functionality. Customizable tools allow network operators to monitor performance and gather data on a variety of user-defined parameters, enabling a holistic view of the network, while application program interfaces simplify integration with existing operational support systems.

The FTMS features deep auto discovery of Force10 E-Series systems and all key components, including line cards and processors, software, switch fabrics, power supplies, fan trays and route processing modules. Built-in flexibility enables network operators to customize discovery features, such as time between discovery queries and status updates, on both a network level and on a per node basis to best suit their network needs.

Leveraging the information obtained during the discovery process, the FTMS generates a network map that displays all recognized network devices. The color coded display provides information on each network node and allows network operators to view the network at multiple levels, including by system, node or network. With the maps, network operators have access to information on each network device and can visually determine problem areas in the network, simplifying the management process.

"To achieve predictable network performance, organizations need an effective way to monitor their networks," said Andrew Feldman, vice president of marketing at Force10 Networks. "The Force10 Management System combines sophisticated diagnostic tools with an inventory tracking system to reduce management costs and ensure that organizations maximize their network resources."

In addition to its mapping abilities, the FTMS provides a powerful inventory management tracking system. The FTMS controls an inventory database that manages and stores component serial numbers and network locations as well as hardware and software version information. During discovery queries, the FTMS software automatically updates network maps and the inventory control database to reflect additions, removals or switches in E-Series systems or components. This inventory control feature provides an on-demand report of the location of all Force10 components at any given time, enabling network operators to efficiently track and manage their network devices.

The FTMS software also provides fault management support by collecting, storing, manipulating and displaying management information related to the overall health of the network. Through the graphical user interface (GUI), the FTMS provides alerts to problems in the network and allows network operators to clear the alarms and issue action commands to correct the problem.

The Force10 E-Series combines unmatched scalability with best-in-class resiliency to bring the network and application predictability required to maximize network performance. Fully distributed hardware and modular software deliver line-rate Gigabit and 10 Gigabit throughput across all ports regardless of traffic type or condition while built-in hardware redundancy guarantees performance continuity.

About Force10 Networks

Force10 Networks is the pioneer in high performance switching and routing. Based on a revolutionary system architecture that delivers best-in-class resiliency and massive scalability, Force10's E-Series switch/routers ensure predictable application performance, increase network availability, and reduce operating costs. Today, many of the world's largest Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet networks depend on Force10 Networks. For additional information, please visit the company's website at www.force10networks.com.

Force10, E-Series, EtherScale and FTOS are trademarks of Force10 Networks, Inc. All other company names are trademarks of their respective holders.