Lantronix provides for logs to be posted to a syslog or NFS server, along with SNMP traps and e-mail notification. The SLC16 allows five levels of reporting detail in log entries, and we could identify each by the port alias furnished. In addition, a half-dozen radio buttons gave us reports on key parameters for individual ports, connections, routes and the console server as a whole. We liked the SLC16's user interface, which showed us a graphical representation of the unit and its ports; we could graphically choose ports for status checks or configuration.
The SLC16 also offers more complete diagnostics than the other units, with features including NetStat, ARP table and Host Lookup. The routing capabilities available for connection definitions are similar to those of the Cyclades product, and the addition of the diagnostics makes the Lantronix system a good candidate for remote access between systems in far-flung locations.
If easy, basic field configuration and on-board management capabilities are important to you, the SLC16 is a clear winner. It wraps sophisticated routing and connection capabilities in a useful GUI, though it doesn't have the range of authentication or encryption options available with the other units.
SecureLinx SLC Console Manager SLC16, $2,340. Lantronix, (800) 422-7055, (949) 453-3990. www.lantronix.com
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