When we attempted to benchmark a number of security platforms to determine their performance levels handling bidirectional traffic, we got stopped in our tracks. In several cases, we couldn't even get a reading. Even with only one megabit of traffic offered across a Fast Ethernet IP Security VPN tunnel, more than one packet was getting discarded. Not only did they suggest only using unidirectional traffic, but also recommended we tolerate a higher frame loss. Security system vendors are aware of this situation.
Any network manager looking to secure true high-performance networks better take heed.
Kevin Tolly is president and CEO of The Tolly Group. Feedback Tell us your thoughts on this article or the issues raised in it. When you click Submit, you'll be taken back to this article. Some companies are hoping you would. Experts Exchange Get answers to your networking questions.