Visual Networks To Offer Frame Relay Monitoring

Visual Networks Inc. this week will begin offering asoftware and hardware package that lets network managers monitor high-speed frame relay pipes to determine if their carriers are meeting service-level agreements.

Visual UpTime 5.2 will let businesses manage multiple T1 lines, up to 45 Mbps, from a central console. It provides a real-time view of pipe performance parameters covered by service-level agreements, including number of packets received and line availability.

Frame relay carriers typically reimburse customers for unmet service-level agreements. With version 5.2's Service Advisor application, Visual UpTime will monitor performance as it occurs, replacing monthly reports. A device that sits between routers and frame relay pipes makes management of multiple T1 lines possible.

Visual UpTime 5.2, set to ship Jan. 31, starts at $12,000 for new customers, plus $19,995 for the hardware device. Existing Visual Network customers with maintenance contracts will get the software for free.