In-line ethernet ports can be configured as fail-open or fail-closed. The RJ-45 monitoring ports have built-in fail-open functionality. The fiber monitoring ports have a built-in fail-open function on ports 11-14. However, they do not have the same function on ports 5-6.
Ethernet ports fail-close, implying that the flow of traffic will stop if the Sensor fails. To allow traffic to flow uninterrupted, you may use an external active fail-open kit(s). You can also utilize our built-in fail-open functionality to avoid network disruptions if a Sensor encounters a very rare failure. For instructions, see the subsequent sections of this chapter.
This section provides steps to connect the Sensor's ethernet ports so they fail-close.
Plug the cable into one of the monitoring ports. For example, 1.
Plug the cable into the other monitoring port. For example, 2.
Connect the other end of each cable to the network devices that you want to monitor.
For example, if you plan to monitor traffic between a switch and a router, connect the cable connected to 1 to the router (3) and the one connected to 2 to the switch (4).