A switch that speed-reads mission-critical apps

摘要

The Appswitch 2000 from Toplayer Networks packs custom chips that apply QOS to specific types of IP traffic. It digs deep into Layer 7 information buried in packets to make sure business apps travel business class. Since the box is built around custom application-specific integrated circuits, it can furnish full Layer 3 routing on all LAN and WAN ports at wire speed, according to the vendor. But there are a few downsides. The switch routes IP only, costs more than the competition, and does not furnish gigabit Ethernet. Early tests indicate the product is acquitting itself well.