Console Servers: Connecting You To The World

A serial console server is a device or service that provides access to the system console of a computing device via various networking technologies

. It provides a collection of serial ports connected to the ports of other network elements such as routers, servers, switches and firewalls.

The remote console servers of the connected devices can be accessed via a network with a terminal emulator or a serial link (such as a modem). With the use of remote console servers, users can log in without physically being at the data center location. This capability means faster response rates, translating into reduced costs and less downtime. Remote power management allows remote power on, power off, remote reboot and power cycling, thus eliminating the need for service dispatches.

Console port servers are available from a number of manufacturers and come in many configurations. The number of serial ports ranges from 1 to 48 and are primarily used for secure remote access to servers and any other device on the network that possesses a console port.

The purpose of a console server is to aid IT personnel in performing secure remote data center management from anywhere in the world, even when servers or networks are down. They typically include highly advanced security functionality so that only qualified IT personnel can gain access to the servers and any data that is transmitted. The selection of a console server is decided by the specific requirements of the user such as the ability to remotely control, monitor, troubleshoot and diagnose equipment across a network.

Some users have created home-grown console servers at a lower cost by building them from components that are no longer being used as a result of upgrades made by the IT department. These units allow greater flexibility by providing dedicated access to the IT managers. But beware"this type of unit "" which requires more rack space - can bring with it a higher total cost of ownership and reduced reliability (which is key).

In summary, some of the benefits of these console servers include:

Increased efficiency by providing access to IT assets whether across the hall or across the world;

Reduction in the amount of downtime by providing detailed reports regarding battery age, load, health, etc.;

Maximum system performance as a result of a reduced amount of time needed to diagnose and restore servers and other devices;

Improved predictive failure by monitoring devices for changes, problems and alarms;

Lower maintenance costs as a result of the reduction in number of on-site visits to solve problems;

Restricted access to the network and the ability to track user activity resulting in increases levels of security; a robust assortment of security and authentication features ensure that access to your critical network elements remains secure by controlling user privileges and access rights to protect IT assets from unauthorized individuals.

Horizontal console port servers can be cascaded to manage over 1,000 devices;

Ability to install maintenance releases of firmware remotely.

by: Hector Klein

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