In a significant move to bolster cybersecurity testing capabilities, Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) has announced the launch of its new APS-ONE-400 modular network cybersecurity test platform. Designed for high-performance environments, this innovative platform promises to enhance the validation processes for network equipment manufacturers (NEMs), service providers, and data center operators by addressing the increasing demands of modern network loads.

1. Addressing Growing Network Demands

As the landscape of data transmission evolves, networks are increasingly challenged by the complexity and volume of traffic. This includes not only legitimate data streams but also threats posed by malicious traffic, emerging post-quantum cryptography (PQC)-encrypted traffic, and the requirements of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) has introduced Elephant Flow transmissions, which necessitate rigorous testing before deployment.

Traditionally, testing these scenarios required multiple specialized tools, leading to inflated costs and strained lab resources. The introduction of the APS-ONE-400 aims to streamline this process, offering a comprehensive solution in a compact 1 rack unit (RU) form factor.

2. Key Features of the APS-ONE-400

The APS-ONE-400 platform is a noteworthy addition to Keysight's APS-100/400GE hardware family, providing a range of high-performance features:

Enhanced Throughput: The platform delivers a remarkable 400 gigabits per second (Gbps) Layer 4-7 traffic throughput, along with 380 Gbps of hardware-accelerated encrypted TLS throughput, and 95 Gbps dedicated to Elephant Flow traffic. This performance is crucial for meeting the rigorous demands of modern network environments.

Scalability and Flexibility: Users can deploy the APS-ONE-400 as a standalone unit or integrate it seamlessly with existing Keysight APS-100/400GE series deployments. Its fanout support for 100/25/10GE allows for compatibility across various network speeds.

Hyperscale Testing Capabilities: When combined with the APS-M8400 appliance or APS-M1010 management controller, the APS-ONE-400 can generate up to 16 terabits per second (Tbps) of Layer 4-7 traffic and handle up to 20 billion concurrent connections. This capability is vital for emulating the demanding environments of data centers and service providers.

Modular Design: The APS-ONE-400 is designed as a “pay-as-you-grow” solution, enabling users to adapt to current testing needs while maintaining the flexibility to scale up as requirements evolve.

3. Insight from Leadership

Ram Periakaruppan, Keysight's Vice President and General Manager of Network Test and Security Solutions, emphasized the necessity for robust testing solutions in the face of increasing data transfer demands. He stated, "The exponential growth of data transfers and bandwidth demands generated by AI and machine learning workloads is putting unprecedented strain on data center, service provider, and enterprise network infrastructures. Continuously validating that networks can handle these challenges without compromising security requires realistic, hyperscale, traffic emulation capabilities."

4. Conclusion

The launch of the APS-ONE-400 positions Keysight Technologies at the forefront of network cybersecurity testing solutions. With its exceptional performance metrics and modular design, the platform is set to aid industry players in navigating the complexities of modern networking and safeguarding their infrastructures against emerging threats. As the demand for reliable and efficient network testing solutions continues to rise, the APS-ONE-400 is poised to become an essential tool in the quest for enhanced cybersecurity.

For more information, interested parties can explore Keysight's product page and data sheet for the APS-100/400 network security test platform.

Original press release