New version of Fluke Networks` OptiView Link Analyzer and Protocol Expert saves time and resources through faster resolution of network problems

Fluke Networks announces a new version of its OptiView Link Analyzer and Protocol Expert network monitoring and analysis solution that helps network managers reduce the mean time to resolution (MTTR) of network problems and ensure maximum productivity of network and application resources.

Link Analyzer 6.1 now supports industry standard RMON2 traffic monitoring. This allows the Link Analyzer to integrate with common network management consoles when not in troubleshooting mode. A new web interface on the Link Analyzer lets remote technicians access real-time network troubleshooting and analysis information through a web browser, for faster problem resolution. With new security capabilities, network administrators can now provide access to network troubleshooting information without worrying about the sensitive nature of the data on the network. Users` access can now be limited to only those features for which they have authorisation. Link Analyzer also has the ability to set up scheduled packet captures for troubleshooting events usually performed outside usual office hours, such as server back-ups, without having to be in the office.

Enhancements to the VoIP analysis in Link Analyzer allow greater QOS management of VOIP traffic. Two new alarms can now be set to trigger on VOIP dropped calls and setup failures, alerting the network manager to call failures before end users call a help desk. Two other signaling protocols, SCCP and MGCP, have also been enhanced to allow the tracking of calls as they are made. If the quality of calls is suspect, network administrators can now playback both channels of a VOIP conversation encoded with the most common CODECs, including G.723.1 and G.729A/B.

Protocol Expert 6.1 now provides centralised management of Link Analyzers and other installations of Protocol Expert, easing configuration and upgrades in widespread deployments. The updated user interface is easier to learn and speeds the identification and resolution of network issues, which results in happier and more effective end users.

A new search and filtering function in Protocol Expert lets users identify data patterns anywhere in the packet. This is commonly used to help isolate worms or viruses that might have infected the network. Protocol Expert`s `Follow TCP Stream` capability lets users filter and export all the data from a TCP session for quicker and easier analysis of the communications between clients and hosts. The NDIS capture buffer is doubled to 32 MB for extended captures. This ensures the user has enough space to capture the necessary information needed to resolve network issues.

Version 6.1 of Link Analyzer and Protocol Expert are available for immediate delivery through Fluke Networks` sales channels worldwide. Customers with Network SuperVision Gold Support can upgrade existing products through the Fluke Networks My Vision portal.