NetEqualizer News Blog

Editor’s Note: We’ve created this page to conveniently compile information on all of our NetEqualizer software updates into one place. As mentioned elsewhere, the NetEqualizer is constantly evolving to meet the ever-changing demands of the IT industry. For more information about any of the updates listed here, or previous updates, contact us at admin@apconnections.net.

Update 7.0  — NetEqualizer Software Update Provides a Faster Platform, Enables Directory Integration, and Extends Directory Integration with our Named Quotas Offering

Editor’s Note:  We recommend that you upgrade to 7.0 if you are interested in taking advantage of our new Directory Integration feature (NDI) or to participate in the beta version of Named Quotas.  You should also consider upgrading if you are running a NE4000 with 10GB connectivity, to take advantage of our faster processing.  While our faster platform will enable us to add more features in 2013 and beyond without compromising processing power, the current 6.0b release performs well for most implementations. The biggest benefit at this time will be to those on NE4000’s using 10GB connections.

Named Quotas is currently in Beta Test, with General Acceptance (GA) planned in May or early June, based on the adoption rate for this feature.  In order to use Named Quotas, you must first activate Directory Integration (NDI), which requires some custom setup.  If you would like to participate in our beta test, please contact us at sales@apconnections.net or 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss further.

*** Software Update 7.0 with 64-bit processing can be run on the NE3000 and NE4000 series, and all August 2011+ NE2000 series.   The NetEqualizer Lite and NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 7.0.  If you have either platform and would like to discuss a trade-in, please contact sales@apconnections.net.  ***

April 9^th, 2013

We recently released our latest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology.  The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 6.0b version to the latest 7.0.

1.  Faster Platform (64-bit processing)

As part of our commitment to keeping our product supported on the latest hardware, we have upgraded our Linux kernel and re-certified the NetEqualizer software.  This kernel upgrade was also undertaken to take advantage of 64-bit processing.  This will position us to offer enhanced capabilities to our core equalizing platform, without sacrificing speed and response times.  For power Linux administrators, the latest version is current and compatible with the latest Debian utilities.In previous releases, as we moved to multi-core hardware, we have split out key processes across cores, so that equalizing does not have to compete with other processing. With this 64-bit processing release, we will see increased speed for all processes across all cores.

2. NetEqualizer Directory Integration (NDI)

Over the years we have received requests from customers to integrate with their back-end domain controller systems, such as Microsoft Active Directory and other server implementations of LDAP (Apache, IBM Tivoli, etc.).  We have always felt that this would be a powerful combination, as Directory Integration has the obvious benefit of utilizing known usernames from your system to identify data flows & activity in the NetEqualizer, rather than IP addresses.  As you can imagine, this could make it much easier to trace activity back to a particular user.  In 7.0, we are offering NetEqualizer Directory Integration (NDI) with our initial set of functionality – think of this as “Level 1” capability.  We are also offering a Beta Test of our first additional “Level 2” functionality, Named Quotas.Please note that there is a one-time initial activation and set-up charge for NetEqualizer Directory Integration (NDI).  Once set-up, NDI software itself is covered under NSS; to get future releases, you will need to be current on your NSS.  Check our price list for details on NDI activation charge.

NetEqualizer Directory Integration (Level 1)

NDI Level 1 consists of a generic API that can be used by customers once they implement a function on their domain controller (DC) server.  Once set-up and configured, the NDI API provides names and associated IP addresses to the NetEqualizer. The NetEqualizer will eventually enable the use of names in a variety of reports, as we learn where they are most useful.  In Level 1, we will start by adding names to our basic live snapshot of equalizing activity, the “Active Connections” Report.

***Beta*** Named Quotas (Level 2)

Our first extension of the NDI, Named Quotas, is available for Beta Test.  With Named Quotas, once the generic NDI API is setup, the data is used by the NetEqualizer to provide status for User Quotas.  This makes the User Quota capability even more meaningful, as quotas are tied to a consistent user’s name rather than an IP address.  This will be extremely useful in systems where customers change IP addresses frequently.  Once Named Quotas are in place, quota reporting will now status bandwidth usage by username, instead of IP.

As a reminder, as of Software Update 6.0, the Professional Quota API is available through the GUI under the “Manage User Quotas” menu option.  Manage User Quotas will be of interest to you if you run a business that charges customers based on bandwidth usage, or if you just want to track bandwidth usage.  Now it is even easier for you to create a custom Quota solution that meets your business needs, using our flexible and powerful toolset.  If you are interested in learning more, please read the Professional Quota API section of Software Update 5.8.

3.  Miscellaneous Fixes

• Quota Routine – fix needed so that quota restriction works in all cases as expected. If you are using quotas, you should update to 7.0 to get this fix.
• Key Violations – Key Violations message on the GUI Dashboard now works as expected.  Key violations message appear if you are exceeding your license level. For more information on Key Violations, please see Quick Start Guide, Appendix #2.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS).  However, there is a one-time activation charge to help with set-up and configuration of NetEqualizer Directory Integration (NDI).  Once implemented, NDI will be covered under NSS.  Click here for details on NSS.  Click here for NSS pricing.  For more information on NDI, NSS or on the 7.0 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 6.0  — NetEqualizer Software Update Releases New, Enhanced Graphical User Interface (GUI), Smarter P2P Blocking, and Kernel Optimization

Editor’s Note:  Update 6.0 is currently in General Acceptance (GA), as the full User Guide has been released as of early November. If you would like to receive the 6.0 Software Update please contact us at sales@apconnections.net or 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss further.

We recommend that you upgrade to 6.0 to take advantage of our new, enhanced Graphical User Interface. The 6.0 GUI is a major redesign of the look & feel, making the GUI easier to use.  You should also consider upgrading if you are interested in our Smarter P2P Blocking capability, which further penalizes P2P traffic.  Finally, if you have a high-volume of VoIP traffic on your network, you should upgrade to get our VoIP kernel optimization.

*** The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 6.0.  Our new hardware paradigm, the NetEqualizer Lite (not POE), can be upgraded to run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in purchasing a NetEqualizer Lite.***

October 9^th, 2012

We recently released our latest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology.  The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 5.8 version to the latest 6.0.

1.  New, Enhanced Graphical User Interface
The 6.0 GUI presents NetEqualizer functionality in a much more organized, intuitive, and modern way.  Here are some of the exciting new features of the updated GUI:

New Dashboard Feature
Our new Dashboard provides an intuitive visual display of the status on critical data and settings within NetEqualizer.  The Dashboard contains on/off status on Equalizing, ntop, Packet Capture, Quotas, and Caching, so that you can quickly tell if your key functions are running.  You can also look at traffic by Pool (Pool 0 for the entire box), and whether Ratio is being exceeded.

To help keep you up-to-date on if you need to upgrade, we display the version that you are running. To make sure you know what date/time and time zone you have set, we display that as well.

Menus aligned by Key Functions
We have redesigned our menus to better support your workflow.  For example, if you are setting up and configuring your unit, all key functions related to this are now in the “Setup and Configuration” Menu section.  Other Key Menus are Management and Reporting, Troubleshooting and Support, and Maintenance and Reference.

Consistent Look & Feel
Just a minor design point, but one that will make the GUI easier to look at and to interpret!  Where possible, we have made sure all our messaging, fonts, colors, buttons, and other design elements use the same look & feel.

Professional Quota API Incorporated
The Professional Quota API functionality introduced in 5.8 has been incorporated into our 6.0 GUI.   The Professional Quota API helps you to quickly and easily utilize our NetEqualizer User-Quota API toolset commands via a GUI interface.

As a reminder, the Professional Quota API will be of interest to you if you run a business that charges customers based on bandwidth usage, or if you just want to track bandwidth usage.  Now it is even easier for you to create a custom Quota solution that meets your business needs, using our flexible and powerful toolset.  If you are interested in learning more, please read the Professional Quota API section of Software Update 5.8.

2.      Smarter P2P Blocking
This new feature improves P2P blocking by allowing for dynamic, smart connection limits within the NetEqualizer.  With Smarter P2P Blocking, limiting is done by slowly starving the P2P connections for bandwidth. The bandwidth reduction is based on a formula which takes into account two main factors:

1) the number of connections a user has open
2) the load on the network

This is implemented by turning on a new Equalizing parameter, “dynamic hogmin”, which takes into account a user’s number of connections as well as the size of their data flows.  When dynamic hogmin is ON, and a user exceeds the defined number of connections, they are penalized more heavily than other users and the penalties get more severe as more connections are opened.

3.     Kernel Optimization
In 6.0 we were able to further optimize kernel level processing.  This will be of interest to you if you have a high volume of VoIP traffic flowing through your network, and if you were experiencing any jitter in VoIP. Our optimization has resolved jitter in high traffic VoIP installations.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS).  Click here for details on NSS.  Click here for NSS pricing.  For more information on NSS or on the 6.0 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.8 — NetEqualizer Software Update Releases Professional User-Quota API, Expands Prioritization to include Named Domain and Subnet capabilities, Adds VLAN Masking, and Increases Caching Drive Size

Editor’s Note:  We recommend that you upgrade to 5.8 if you are interested in prioritizing bandwidth by domain name servers or by subnets, are looking to mask VLANs, or would like to build out a custom Quota Application using our new Professional Quota API web GUI interface. 

*** The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.8.  Our new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.***

May 8^th, 2012

We recently released our latest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology.  The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 5.6 version to the latest 5.8.

1.  Expanded Prioritization

Dynamic Allocation
Now you can dynamically allocate bandwidth, by giving priority on the fly, for domains like Netflix, YouTube, or Hulu.  Once you have identified the domain servers via “whois”, you can then enter the name servers that you want prioritized and the amount of bandwidth you want reserved for them.

We are able to do this without violating Net Neutrality, as we do NOT use deep packet inspection (DPI) in our solution.

Priority Hosts by Subnet
We have expanded our Priority Hosts feature to enable you to prioritize an entire IP subnet.  This feature is useful if you need to prioritize a section of your network, for example, a subnet where your video-streaming servers are hosted.

2. Professional Quota API
   Our popular NetEqualizer User-Quota API goes Professional!  Based on your feedback and due to popular demand, we have built out a GUI interface to help you to quickly and easily utilize our NetEqualizer User-Quota API toolset commands.

The Professional Quota API will be of interest to you if you run a business that charges customers based on bandwidth usage, or if you just want to track bandwidth usage.  Now it is even easier for you to create a custom Quota solution that meets your business needs, using our flexible and powerful toolset.

The Professional Quota API is a standard pre-written quota utility imbedded in each system. You can quickly plug in IP addresses from the GUI and have a monthly quota enforced right away.

The NetEqualizer User-Quota Application Programmer’s Interface (NUQ-API) Toolkit was first released in April 2010.  We are maintaining all of the features offered in the API, but now you can leverage the GUI to implement them.  The Quota API still enables you to:

• Track user data by IP
• Specify Quotas and Bandwidth Limits Rules by IP or an entire IP subnet (quotas are then applied to each IP individually within the subnet).
• Monitor real-time bandwidth utilization at any time
• Set up notification alarms when users exceed their bandwidth limits

Important Note: The Professional Quota API GUI interface is covered under NSS (using the NUQ-API Toolkit is not supported under NSS).

3.   VLAN Masking

VLAN Masking is an extension of our masking feature.  MASKs enable you to mark traffic to be ignored by the NetEqualizer, and are used primarily to exclude Local Traffic that you do not want Equalized (masked traffic is “invisible” to the NetEqualizer).  Our new VLAN Exclusion enables you to designate entire local VLANs that you want masked.

4.  Larger Caching Drive for NCO

We are now shipping NetEqualizer Caching Option (NCO) with a 256 GB SSD drive to enhance our caching capability. This means we expand on and hold more and larger videos and also cache some smaller popular web pages – increasing your hit rates.  To-date, caching has been popular for ensuring that trending YouTube videos play quickly, and also for educational videos used in universities and K-12 schools.

• NCO activation requires an NE3000 or above, with a minimum of 4GB RAM. For better results, we also recommend a solid-state drive (SSD), which will be included in NCO as part of the implementation process.  If you would like to upgrade or trade-in your NetEqualizer, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.netor 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss your options.
• There is a one-time initial activation and set-up charge (NCO) for the NetEqualizer caching option. The caching software itself is covered under NSS; to get future releases, you will need to be current on your NSS.  Please email sales@apconnections.net or call us at 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss your options to activate NCO on your system.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS).  Click here for details on NSS.  Click here for NSS pricing.  For more information on NSS or on the 5.8 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.6  — NetEqualizer Software Update Fixes 5.0
VLAN and Pool bug, 5.0 Connection Limit bug, and Optimizes 5.5

Editor’s Note:  We have resolved several issues introduced with the new Linux kernel rolled out in 5.0.  We recommend that you upgrade to 5.6 if you are shaping using VLANs or Pools AND are running Software Update >=5.0.  We have also resolved a Connection Limit locking issue introduced with Software Updates >=5.0.  Also, if you previously upgraded to our 5.5 release, we recommend upgrading to take advantage of speed optimizations introduced in 5.6.

If you are shaping via Pools or VLANs on a Software Update <5.0, you do not need to upgrade. However, we always recommend staying current with software updates to take advantage of new features and optimizations.

*** The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.6.  We are offering a new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, which will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.***

January 27th, 2012

We recently released our latest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology.  The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 5.5 version to the latest 5.6.

1. VLAN and Pool Shaping bug fix (>=5.0)
   In 5.0 we upgraded to a new Linux kernel, in order to keep current on support for the latest hardware.  Introducing a new kernel is a large undertaking, and while we certified the software with a full regression, load, and stress test, it is always a challenge to capture all real-world cases. Working with customers on live systems, we have identified a fix to a Pool and VLAN shaping issue.  In Software Update >=5.0, Pools and VLAN shaping can experience an intermittent lockup issue.  If you run Pools or VLAN shaping, you should upgrade to 5.6 to resolve this issue.
2. Connection Limits bug fix (>=5.0)
   Similar to the issue with VLAN and Pool Shaping, we have also found and fixed an issue that could cause one or more Connections Limits to lock up.   The symptom experienced in the field was that one connection limit would no longer reset correctly when full, causing all connections to be exhausted for that particular IP.  If you use Connection Limits in your environment, you should upgrade to 5.6.

Note: We were able to recreate these issues once identified.  We have added these test cases to our load test bed, to ensure that we can recreate these scenarios in the future.

Both the VLAN/Pool Shaping and Connection Limit bugs are very intermittent, so a small fraction of network traffic would be impacted at any time.

3. 5.5 Optimization
   We have further optimized our software to speed up the functionality added in 5.5.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS).  For more information on NSS or on the 5.6 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.5 — NetEqualizer Software Update Adds Email Alerts & Notifications, Expanded Prioritization, and IPv6 Visibility

Editor’s Note:  As of January 2012, update 5.5 is out of Beta Test and in General Release.

We recommend that you upgrade to 5.5 if you have VoIP and/or YouTube traffic, and are interested in assessing how our DiffServ Priority Feature enhances VoIP and YouTube video prioritization on your network. You may also choose to upgrade if you are running a dual stack (IPv4/IPv6) and want greater visibility into IPv6 traffic.  Finally, 5.5 offers email notifications and alerts, which may benefit you if you want increased visibility into your traffic shaping.  

***Release 5.5 does NOT run on the NetEqualizer POE.  Release 5.5 does run on the NetEqualizer Lite.  ***
The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.5.  We are offering a new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, which will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.

November 8th, 2011

We recently released our latest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology.  The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 5.4 version to the latest 5.5.

1. Expanded Prioritization – DiffServ (TOS) Priority Feature
   NetEqualizer’s new Expanded Prioritization – DiffServ Priority Feature is an optional tuning parameter that can be toggled on/off on your NetEqualizer.  When DiffServ Priority is “on”, we analyze the Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) field, to provide further instructions to automatically prioritize connections using our equalizing engine.

DiffServ priority complements our core behavior-based shaping algorithms.  Based on our research and testing, we expect DiffServ to automatically prioritizeconnections that are utilizing services like VoIP and YouTube video to provide improved quality of service (QoS) on your network.

If too much of your traffic is using the DiffServ field, it may not be beneficial to use this feature, as it could cause all traffic to be considered high priority.  To monitor how much of your traffic has the DiffServ field set, look for “on/off” in the new TOS field of the Active Connections Table.

Note: The DiffServ or“Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP)” field was formerly known as, and may also be referred to, as the TOS or “Type Of Service” bit.

For more information on our DiffServ/TOS Priority Feature, and priority handling in general, check out this article from our blog: Eleven Tips to Improve VoIP & Video on the Internet Using NetEqualizer and DiffServ/TOS Bits.

For more information on setting DiffServ/TOS bits, here is a reference article showing an example on how to set up DiffServ bits for all traffic coming from an ISA server.

2. Increased IPv6 Visibility
   We are providing enhanced visibility to IPv6 traffic, to help those running dual stacks (IPv4/IPv6) and to prepare for the migration over to full IPv6.  We felt that the best way to begin this transition in our software is to provide you with a way to see how much IPv6 traffic is passing through your network. In 5.5 we have added an IPv6 Active Connections Tableto the GUI that shows all of the current IPv6 flows and their bandwidth consumption. We will also give you access to total IPv6 bandwidth currently being consumed in our Show Instant Report, by selecting the IPv6 option.

Note: Even for customers running dual stacks, we do not expect IPv6 traffic to eclipse more than a fraction of a percent of network traffic at this time.

3. Email Alerts & Notifications
   You will now be able to set-up an email account to receive alerts and notifications from the NetEqualizer.  Notifications can be sent at pre-defined intervals, based on how often you wish to receive them.   This feature also enables you to select from a list of standard events (such as trunk size reaching 100% of capacity), and then sends you a notification when the event is triggered.As part of the 5.5 release, in celebration of our IPv6 visibility, one of the events that we are going to provide visibility to is “IPv6 traffic exceeding 1Mbps”.  We will also be providing other popular events as standard.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS).  For more information on NSS or on the 5.5 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.4 — NetEqualizer Software Update Increases Ethernet Receive Buffer Size; Adds Tuning Capabilities for Masks, subnet-ranged Hard Limits & Connection Limits; and Enhances Troubleshooting Tools

Editor’s Note: We recommend upgrading to 5.4 if you would like to take advantage of larger Ethernet Receive buffers. You may also choose to upgrade if you have defined a large number of Masks, or a large number of subnet-ranged Connection Limits, Pools, or Hard Limits, as 5.4 adds two tuning parameters.  Additionally, 5.4 may be of interest to you for its improved troubleshooting capabilities, as we have enhanced our diagnostic output.  

***Release 5.4 does NOT run on the NetEqualizer POE.  Release 5.4 does run on the NetEqualizer Lite.  ***
The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.2.  We are offering a new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, which will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.

October 11th, 2011

We recently released our newest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology. The following enhancements and fixes have been implemented from the previous 5.2 version to the latest 5.4.

1. Increased Ethernet Receive Buffers
   We introduced a new Linux software kernel in software update 5.0 in order to keep current on support for the latest hardware.  We have determined that our new kernel enables us to offer larger Ethernet receive buffers, and have implemented this capability in 5.4.  This feature is recommended if your network size is >=100Mbps.
2. Tuning for a Large Number of Masks (>=32)
   The masking features on NetEqualizer are intended to exclude Local Traffic crossing the NetEqualizer link (such as a computer talking to a server on your network) from being considered for any shaping decisions, as masked traffic is “invisible” to the NetEqualizer.In 5.4 we have added a tuning parameter to offer you further flexibility in your use of Masks.  This parameter is used to increase the number of Mask definitions possible, from the default of 32 up to a maximum of 256.Note: This parameter does not need to be changed if you use <=32 Masks.
3. Tuning for a Large Number of subnet-ranged Connection Limits, Hard Limits, & Pools (>=32 subnet ranges)
   The NetEqualizer currently simplifies your configuration set-up by enabling you to enter Hard Limits, Connection Limits and Pools as “subnet ranges” (i.e.. HARD x.x.x.x/24) instead of as individual rules.  In 5.4 we have adding two (2) tuning parameters that enhance your use of subnet-ranged Connection Limits, Hard Limits, and Pools.
   
   • The first parameter is used to increase the number of subnet-range definitions possible, from the default of 32 up to a maximum of 256.
   • The second parameter enables you to tweak how often packets are checked to see if they are within a subnet-range.

   Note: As always, the NetEqualizer continues to support an UNLIMITED number of individual Hard Limits, Connection Limits and Pools (i.e. x.x.x.x/32).

   Note: These parameters do not need to be changed if you use a combined <=32 subnet ranges in total across Pools, Hard Limits, and Connection Limits.
   

4. Enhanced Troubleshooting Tools
   With 5.4, we have updated our diagnostic output file (produced by running Miscellaneous->Run Live System Diag).  The output now includes a dump of connections that may be suspect for P2P abuse.  We also found that Key Violations in the diagnostic file were not calculated correctly and so did not match those displayed on the Main Menu GUI.  This has been fixed in 5.4.

5. Minor Enhancements
   • We have removed Global Connection Limits from the Main Menu GUI, as this capability has been replaced by subnet-ranged Individual Connection Limits.
   • Enhanced the Pool Members page to enable you to see more Pools.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). For more information on NSS or on the 5.4 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.2 — NetEqualizer Software Update Adds P2P Locator Tool, Fixes 5.0 VLAN and IE bugs

Editor’s Note: We recommend upgrading to 5.2 if you use VLAN shaping and previously upgraded to Release 5.0.  You may also choose to upgrade if you use IE as your browser with 5.0 to fix a minor bug.  Additionally, if P2P is an issue for you, 5.2 gives you access to our new peer-to-peer (P2P) Locator Tool.

***Release 5.2 does NOT run on the NetEqualizer POE.  Release 5.2 does run on the NetEqualizer Lite.  ***
The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.2.  We are offering a new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, which will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.

June 15th, 2011

We recently released our newest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology. The following enhancements and fixes have been implemented from the previous 5.0 version to the latest 5.2.

1. P2P Locator Tool — Although the NetEqualizer has long been able to thwart P2P behavior without any controversial layer-7 packet inspection, our new P2P Locator Tool can now automatically pinpoint and identify an individual P2P user or gamer without looking at any private data. The tool provides:

• A list of users that are suspected of using P2P
• A list of users that are likely hosting gaming servers
• A confidence rating for each user (from high to low)
• The option of tracking users by IP and MAC address

The P2P Locator Tool is available under the Reports & Graphing Menu by selecting “Show find P2P Report”.

2. VLAN shaping fix - With 5.0, we updated our linux kernel to the latest stable Debian version.  We have determined that this update created a bug in our VLAN shaping.  5.2 fixes the VLAN shaping bug introduced by 5.0.  If you are shaping by VLAN on 5.0, you must upgrade to 5.2.

Note: If you are running VLAN shaping on a previous version (<5.0), you do not need this update, as this bug was introduced in 5.0.

3. IE fix – With the IE browser, we found that “Run a Command” was not working in 5.0.  This now works as expected.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). For more information on NSS or on the 5.2 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 5.0 — NetEqualizer Software Update Adds NetEqualizer 3000 Caching Option (NCO), Updates Linux Kernel, Refreshes Graphical Reporting (ntop), Enhances High Volume Installations, Relaxes License Enforcement, and Enables NetEqualizer Naming

Editor’s Note: We recommend upgrading to 5.0 if you would like to take advantage of the NetEqualizer 3000 Caching feature for YouTube (“NCO” – NetEqualizer Caching Option). We also recommend upgrading if you want to take advantage of Debian utilities available with the new Linux kernel, and get an updated version of our graphical reporting tool (ntop). In addition, you may be interested in upgrading if you have Large Pools or VLANs (>==10Mbps), occasionally burst over your license level, or run multiple NetEqualizers.

***Release 5.0 does NOT run on the NetEqualizer POE, due to the port to the new Linux kernel. At this time we are assessing when and if the POE will be upgraded to run 5.0.  UPDATE as of December 2011: The NetEqualizer POE cannot be upgraded to run 5.0.  We are offering a new hardware paradigm (not POE), the NetEqualizer Lite, which will run 5.0 and greater.  Contact us if you are interested in trading in your NetEqualizer POE for a NetEqualizer Lite.***

April 12th, 2011

We recently released our newest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology. The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 4.7 version to the latest 5.0.

1. NetEqualizer 3000 Caching Option (NCO) — We have developed an embedded caching capability for YouTube videos that runs directly on the NetEqualizer box. When NCO is activated, a squid proxy server is loaded, along with proprietary NetEqualizer Caching configuration and integration software.  NCO is used to cache frequently used, static content, which are primarily YouTube videos.  To learn more about this feature, read our YouTube FAQ.
   • Important Note: NCO activation requires an NE3000 or above, with a minimum of 4GB RAM. For better results, we also recommend a solid-state drive (SSD), which will be included in NCO as part of the implementation process.  If you would like to upgrade or trade-in your NetEqualizer, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net or 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss your options.
   • There is a one-time initial activation and set-up charge (NCO) for the NetEqualizer caching option. The caching software itself is covered under NSS; to get future releases, you will need to be current on your NSS.  Please email sales@apconnections.net or call us at 303.997.1300 x103 to discuss your options to activate NCO on your system.
2. Linux Kernel Update — In order to keep current on support for the latest hardware, we have updated our kernel to the latest stable Debian version and re-certified the NetEqualizer software.  For power Linux adminstrators the latest version is current and compatible with the latest Debian utilities.
3. Refreshed Graphical Reporting — With the Linux kernel update, we have been able to upgrade our graphical reporting tool (ntop).  Release 5.0 loads the 3.3 ntop release.  Read more about ntop.
4. High Volume Installations — We continue to enhance our shaping for High Volume Installations. In this release, we have incorporated self-adjusting shaping that automatically responds to changing traffic patterns for Large Pools and Large VLANs  (>=10Mbps), reducing the need for manual tuning. The NetEqualizer dynamically smooths our rate limits so that packets are slowed down progressively before dropping packets.Note: If you have previously run tuning commands for Large Pools or Large VLANs, there is no need to remove those commands. They will work in concert with the new automated capabilities.
5. Relaxed License Enforcement — We will now allow you to burst over your license level for up to 10 seconds without incurring any negative side effects. Prior to this release, tolerance was more tightly enforced.
6. Name Your NetEqualizer!(Feature request from a customer) — You asked and we listened! For many of you that have installed multiple NetEqualizers, it is difficult to tell which one you are administering at any given time, as you only see the IP address for the box. Now you can associate a “NetEqualizer Name” with each management IP address and see that information in the Web GUI, so you will always know which NetEqualizer you are working on!
   • Note: If you have a feature request you would like considered for a future release, email Sales at sales@apconnections.net with the subject “Feature Request,” and tell us what you would like to see!
7. New Speed Log Tool (Feature request from a customer) — We have added a new “Speed Log Tool” that will test and report your link capacity hourly.  During your busy hour, this tool will help you to validate whether you are getting the up and down link speeds that you expect from your provider.
8. Better Monitor Bandwidth Hogs — You can now run a command to see all current bandwidth hogs (connections that are over HOGMIN).
9. Reduce CPU Load — You can run “top” in non-interactive mode to reduce CPU load on the system by using the toponce command.
10. Enhanced Firewall — We have enhanced the NetEqualizer firewall capability, which is used only if you need to install the NetEqualizer in a public link and therefore firewall off the NetEqualizer itself.  If you want to know whether your firewall is enabled, you can now “show the current firewall rules” without starting the firewall.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). However, there is a one-time charge to activate the NetEqualizer Caching Option (NCO) module, as described above. For more information on the NCO, NSS or on the 5.0 Software Update, contact Sales at sales@apconnections.net.

Update 4.7 — NetEqualizer Software Update Enhances High Volume Installations, Adds Bandwidth Bursting, & Provides Instantaneous Bandwidth Reporting

July 7th, 2010

We recently released our newest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology. The following enhancements have been implemented from the previous 4.5 version to the latest 4.7.

We recommend upgrading to 4.7 if you utilize Large Pools or VLANs which are greater than or equal to 10 Mbps (>=10 Mbps).  You may also choose to upgrade if you would like to take advantage of our new Bandwidth Bursting or Instantaneous Bandwidth Reporting capabilities.

1. Large VLANs
   VLAN Limits enhanced for Large VLANs (>=10 Mbps).  We have smoothed our rate limits so that packets are slowed down progressively before dropping packets.  In order to implement this feature, you will need to run a tuning command. Please see our write-up on how to do this in the Support Archives.
2. Large Bandwidth Pools
   Pool Limits enhanced for Large Pools (>=10 Mbps). We have smoothed our rate limits so that packets are slowed down progressively before dropping packets.
3. NetEqualizer is now taking advantage of expanded kernel memory space, up to 64GB.
4. Bandwidth Bursting
   With the new bursting feature, you can now set up a burst limit for each Hard Limit on a particular customer’s IP, which will allow you to define:
   - How long a customer’s burst will last (burst duration)
   - How long a customer must wait between bursts (burst delay)
   - How much additional bandwidth a customer will get during their burst (burst limit)
5. Instantaneous Bandwidth Reporting
   Curious about how much bandwidth a particular IP address, Pool, or VLAN is utilizing on your network?  Instantaneous Bandwidth Reporting enables you to query in real-time right from the NetEqualizer GUI.  This enables you to measure a customer’s current bandwidth utilization by IP, VLAN or Bandwidth Pool, allowing you to actually see the burst in action. This instant bandwidth reporting feature is an industry first.
6. Defaults increased to take advantage of additional memory.
   BRAIN_SIZE increased from 3,000 to 10,000, and is editable.
   HOGMAX increased to 1,000,000, and has been removed from the Modify Parameter screen, as it is not editable.
   BUFFERS increased to 900, and has been removed from the Modify Parameter screen, as it is not editable.
7. Password checking.  GUI now enforces passwords that meet our password rules.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). For more information on the 4.7 Software Update, or on NSS, contact us at admin@apconnections.net or 303.997.1300 x101.

Update 4.5 – NetEqualizer Software Update enhances Pools, Rules, and Tools

April 5th, 2010

NetEqualizer 4.5 will now support additional pools and mask rules.  It provides a bits-to-bytes conversion quick reference, and enables you to set up a larger RAM disk for ntop reporting (www.ntop.org).  It also contains a new User-Quota API programmer’s toolkit.  These features are described in more detail below.

NetEqualizer Now Supports up to 300 Pools
We have expanded the Pools capability.  Using Pools in your configuration has always enabled you to set up shared bandwidth for a group of users (each user in the pool’s bandwidth usage is additive up to the overall total).  For example, a Pool defined with 10 users for 2Mbps up and 1Mbps down limits all 10 users to sharing this bandwidth.   You are now able to create up to three-hundred (300) Pools via the NetEqualizer Web Graphical User Interface (GUI).  In previous versions the maximum number of Pools that could be set-up was 40.

NetEqualizer Now Supports up to 256 Masks
Many of you utilize Mask Rules in your configuration to hide local server-to-server traffic that you do not want equalized or counted against your license, as well as to hide connections (like a speedtest site).  We have increased the number of Mask Rules that you can set-up from thirty (30) to two hundred fifty-six (256).

Larger Capacity to Store ntop Reports (All models except NetEqualizer Lite)
We are continuing to strengthen our reporting capabilities for the NetEqualizer 2000 series and above.  In this release, we have significantly increased the RAM disk size used to run reporting (via ntop).  Our RAM disk is now 300Mb, versus 30Mb in previous releases.  This will enable most users to keep 1 month or more of data locally on the RAM disk (you may be able to store even more, depending on your network size and traffic level).  This change also increases the lifespan of the Compact Flash (CF).

For those of you that want to keep even more history, contact our Support Team support@apconnections.net to get detailed instructions on how to set up ntop on a separate server, and load it with NetEqualizer data.

Please note that the current NetEqualizer Lite no longer offers ntop reporting, as we cannot move ntop off the CF onto a RAM disk in the NetEqualizer Lite, and maintain the small form factor.

NetEqualizer User-Quota Application Programmer’s Interface (API) Toolkit
This new toolkit will allow NetEqualizer users to generate custom configurations to better handle bandwidth quotas, as well as to keep customers informed of their individual bandwidth usage.

Internet providers use bandwidth quotas as a means to meter total bandwidth downloaded over a period of time for their customer base.  This can help an internet provider to identify customers that may need to increase their service level.  It can also be used  to provide customers with a tool to see their usage patterns.

The NetEqualizer User-Quota API programmer’s toolkit features include:

1. Tracking user data by IP and MAC address (MAC address tracking will be out in the second release)
2. Specifying quotas and bandwidth limits by IP or a subnet block
3. Monitoring real-time bandwidth utilization at any time
4. Setting up a notification alarm when a user exceeds a bandwidth limit
5. Utilizing an API programming interface

Important Note: Support for the NetEqualizer User-Quota API Toolkit is NOT included in our standard software support (NSS).

Bits-to-Bytes Quick Reference
On the Main Page, you can now quickly see how to convert from bits to bytes.  This should help you to input the correct values for the TRUNK_UP and TRUNK_DOWN parameters.  Some of you have been confused on this, so we thought this would help clarify for all.

4.0 and Above ONLY: Fix to Pools
Please note that the following fix only applies to version 4.0 or greater.   If you are on 3.x version or earlier, you do not need this fix.

1. If you are using Pools in 4.0 or greater (4.0 – 4.3), we recommend that you apply this software update in order for Pools to work correctly.  We have found that in certain cases Pool numbers were being mishandled in 4.0.

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). For more information on the 4.5 software update, or NSS, contact us at admin@apconnections.net or 303-997-1300.

Update 4.0 — Carrier-Class Shaping

Continuing the constant evolution of the NetEqualizer line, we’re pleased to offer the most recent NetEqualizer software release – Carrier Class 4.0. In addition to providing the features and quality found in past NetEqualizer releases, among its many enhancements Carrier Class 4.0 will now support three times as many shaping buffers, translating into smoother shaping for up to tens of thousands of users.

For example, you will be able to take a one-gigabit pipe and break off 1,000 users into a subnet mask to share 100 megabits (with smoother results than current versions). Most routers that break out chunks of bandwidth use harsh rate control methods such as dropping packets when the limit is reached. Although there will be a small margin of error, the optimizations and techniques used to break off larger chunks of bandwidth and shape them smoothly without dropping packets rivals that of carrier class shapers sold for 10 times our cost.

The following features and enhancements will also be available with Carrier Class 4.0:

• Full one- to 32-bit mask fields for hard limits  — You can now take any IP address and specify a mask in x.x.x.x/y format where y is the number of bits you wish to mask. All IP addresses in the masked range will receive the specified hard limit (Hard limits are individual rate limits for an IP address).
• Pools support masks – You can now add members to a bandwidth pool using a mask field of the form x.x.x.x/y, Y can range from one to 32. The NetEqualizer will automatically add members of the range specified as they become active and retire them if they become inactive. This optimization will allow users to specify large ranges without overwhelming the system.
• Full one- to 32-bit masking for traffic masking – You can now use the NetEqualizer masking function with odd numbered mask specifications, prior to this release only /24 and /16 masks were allowed.
• Pool number displayed in active connection table – You can now see if a connection is part of a pool, the pool number will be displayed in the last column of the connection table.
• Release 1.0 of our URL-based blocking feature – Now you can block a list of URL’s. This feature is commonly used by libraries and private institutions where there is a mandate to block particular recreational sites. In the initial release, customers need only supply a config file with all URLs by name that they wish to block and then hit the start button. In future releases, we will be contracting with providers that supply updated lists on a regular basis. There will be no charge to enable our URL-blocking feature, however there will likely be subscription charges to use third party URL lists.
• Connection limit masks now fully supported – You can specify a connection limit mask of the form x.x.x.x/y where y is an int from one to 32. Prior to this release, only /24 and /26 were supported.
• New Automatic detection of license overruns – The NetEqualizer will now automatically report any new license overruns. Any time you log into the GUI, a message will be displayed indicating how many license overruns you may have incurred since your last reboot. If you do see a license overrun, you should call support and see about upgrading your license.
• New license levels available for enforcement in kernel
• URL-based shaping

For more information on the Carrier Class 4.0 update, contact us at admin@apconnections.net or 303-997-1300.

Update 3.32a/b — NetEqualizer Software Update Improves VLAN Shaping, NTOP

June 9, 2009

We recently released our newest NetEqualizer software update, further improving on our existing technology. The following fixes have been implemented from the the previous 2.43k version to the latest 3.32a.

1. Upgraded internal disk memory caching. This feature remedied an issue with NTOP that was causing disk corruptions on the CF drive.
2. Subnet masking was modified such that masked traffic will not count against your license level. Prior to this change, a customer with a 10-meg license who ran 100 meg local transfers across their NetEqualizer would experience a license violation. You can now mask that traffic (make it invisible to the NetEqualizer and hence not violate your license).
3. A bug fix was put in for customers who run asymmetric pools. Bandwidth pools with different upload and download speeds were not working correctly prior to this fix.
4. VLAN shaping fix. There was an issue on cold restarts.
5. Support for multi-core CPU
6. More efficient connection limit processing

This software update is available without charge for NetEqualizer customers with a current NetEqualizer Software Subscription (NSS). For more information on this update, or the NSS, contact us at admin@apconnections.net.