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Cyclades Introduces Single-Port Advanced Console Server; AlterPath ACS1 Provides Remote Branch Office Management of Infrastructure

Posted on: Wednesday, 25 June 2003, 06:00 CDT

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 25, 2003--Cyclades Corporation, a data center management company that minimizes unplanned network downtime, today introduced a single-port console server that provides remote branch offices and facilities that are not within the corporate network with a cost-effective way to remotely access, monitor and manage network infrastructure. The AlterPath(TM) Advanced Console Server (ACS1) creates an alternative or "out-of-band" management path to remotely access and control servers, network equipment or automation devices at off-site locations via serial console ports -- at any time, from anywhere -- even when the network is down.

For example, if a network problem occurs impeding data transactions at a bank branch, retail store, fulfillment house or kiosk, IT professionals can use the AlterPath ACS1 and dial-up modem access to remotely connect to the network infrastructure, including routers, firewalls, and proprietary devices, such as ATM and POS machines. The AlterPath ACS1 also makes possible automatic detection of events and supports scripting of corrective action, minimizing the need for human intervention and reducing maintenance costs while allowing faster problem solving and higher network uptime. Corrective action may include automatically rebooting the system or sending a page message to the system administrator. Console data logging, scripting and event notification are especially critical to organizations with limited IT staffing and geographically dispersed facilities with limited network infrastructure.

"As companies expand their presence globally, many require secure remote management capabilities for branch office routers, switches, servers, firewalls and other network equipment spread across many locations locally or around the world," said Daniel Dalarossa, Cyclades CEO. "The AlterPath ACS1, like our multi-port console servers, allows IT professionals to have remote and secure access to all network devices at off-site locations systems without compromising service levels."

The AlterPath ACS1 provides the data encryption required to ensure security and network integrity. Security features, such as SSH v2 (Secure Shell), RADIUS authentication, IP filtering, IPSec and user access lists per port, let IT professionals remotely manage equipment with greater control and peace of mind.

Dual PCMCIA slots allow for enhanced functionality with support for many interface cards, such as wireless LAN, Ethernet, and modem (V.90, GSM, CDMA and ISDN). By using a PCMCIA I/O card, IT professionals can even add infrastructure monitoring and control to the ACS1 feature set, allowing access to smoke and leak detectors, temperature and humidity sensors, door alarms and other facilities monitoring devices.

"Unlike other console server equipment designed with proprietary software technologies, the AlterPath ACS1 leverages Embedded Linux and other Open Source software," said John Lima, president of Cyclades and head of the company's European operations. "Users have the flexibility and power to customize its operation, modifying or adding features as needed."

The AlterPath ACS1 uses a PowerPC dual CPU to transfer data from its 10/100BT Ethernet interface to its RS-232/RS-484 (software selectable) serial interface and vice-versa, enabling communications between the serial device and the network.

The AlterPath ACS1 and other Cyclades console servers support systems running Microsoft(R) Windows(R) Server 2003 and UNIX-based operating systems including Linux and Solaris(TM).

The AlterPath ACS1 is available worldwide for $495 MSRP. Cyclades AlterPath ACS family of advanced console servers also includes 4, 8, 16, 32, and 48-port models.

About Cyclades

Cyclades is a data center management company that prevents and minimizes unplanned downtime through console access, power control and systems management. Its AlterPath(TM) family of data center products and solutions enables remote, secure and centralized management of servers, network equipment and automation devices, minimizing human intervention and decreasing maintenance costs. Cyclades' advantage is in providing scalable products leveraging Linux technology for flexibility, ease of customization and high level of security. Headquartered in Fremont, Calif., Cyclades has offices located throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Cyclades can be reached at 888/292-5233 or on the Web at www.cyclades.com.

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