New NetSecure option allows handheld NetTool Series II to detect rogue applications during network connectivity, performance tests

Fluke Networks, provider of innovative Network SuperVision Solutions for the testing, monitoring and analysis of enterprise and telecommunications networks, today announces the new NetSecure option for the NetTool Series II Inline Network Tester.

The NetSecure option lets network technicians solve one of today's most frustrating problems by identifying rogue applications like spyware, adware, and viruses during network connectivity and performance tests.

"Malware has evolved from a security issue to a performance issue," said John Burke, Principal Analyst at Nemertes Research. "The impact of malware, especially spyware, on enterprise applications' performance continues to grow, with more than 80% of enterprises saying that malware affects management of desktops."

NetTool's new NetSecure option addresses this issue by testing for spyware, adware, and viruses while solving connectivity issues. This eliminates wasted technician time using trial-and-error troubleshooting methods. NetSecure also reduces maintenance costs, by detecting rogue applications based on actual port behaviour, not definitions or signatures which become outdated and require constant updates.

"The new NetSecure option is a powerful addition to the NetTool Series II," says Adam Welch, Fluke Networks Marketing Manager for Termination and Test Tools. "It really showcases the value of solving a range of problems during frontline testing. Network technicians are able to fix more problems faster with this handheld inline tester."

NetSecure is a software option that quickly loads into the NetTool Series II Inline Network Tester. NetTool is a handheld, front-line troubleshooting tool; its simple one-step NetProve test pinpoints problems so that technicians, regardless of skill level, can quickly and easily recognise the source of the problem. At the desktop, it can quickly detect cabling problems, speed/duplex mismatches, and DHCP failures. For VOIP phones, it can be used to troubleshoot connectivity issues with its inline boot log, call quality metrics, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) detection. All test results can be saved and uploaded to assist in trouble ticket routing and resolution.

The new NetSecure option for NetTool also helps enterprises protect against future attacks by supporting the 802.1X authentication protocol. The 802.1X capability is important in two key ways. First, it can be used to verify proper authentication settings by emulating a client on the network, thus preventing downtime and troubleshooting after moves, adds, and changes. Second, it can be used to troubleshoot user authentication problems inline by displaying the 802.1X authentication process and flagging reasons for failure. Most authentication failures are due to user password issues. NetSecure helps technicians avoid time-consuming trial-and-error by showing these and other failures immediately.

Product availability: The NetSecure Option for NetTool Series II Inline Network Tester is available for immediate delivery as a standalone upgrade from Fluke Networks resellers worldwide. Also available is the NetTool Series II Network Service Kit, which includes the NetTool Series II Inline Network Tester, NetSecure Option, VOIP Option, Wireview Cable IDs #2-6, IntelliTone 200 Probe, NiMH batteries and charger and a deluxe carrying case.