Introduction

Enterprise networks are vast and varied, just like the organizations that deploy them. Sometimes a network may need to exist in an extremely remote or hostile environment. Other times, it may need to occupy a very small physical footprint. These are just two examples, but there’s a host of reasons why a physical appliance may not be the right choice for network monitoring. 

We understand that each network is a unique ecosystem with different requirements, we have released a new Virtual Appliance that is flexible enough to meet virtually any requirements. 

Table of contents

• Choosing Between a Physical or Virtual Appliance
• Requesting a Virtual Appliance

Choosing Between a Physical or Virtual Appliance

Our virtual appliance is the digital equivalent of the traditionally physical appliance. The underlying operating system, hardware configuration, and robust capabilities are all the same. The choice comes down simply to what works best within the specific environment.

Virtual appliances are best suited for: 

• Extremely remote locations where shipping and maintenance may be an issue.
• Environments that are already virtualized, like a data center, for example. 
• Environments that may not be virtualized but have in-house virtualization expertise and resources.

Requesting a Virtual Appliance

When your organization fills out the Tech Intake Form, you’ll have the opportunity to request a virtual appliance. 

You have the option of either hosting the deployment yourself, having it be hosted by Field Effect in a certified SOC, PCI and DSS compliant data center, or having a third part host the deployment. 

Based on your needs, we’ll deliver the appropriate assets including welcome content and deployment guides for your virtual application.