Cubro Network TAPs Traffic Breakout Devices

What is a Network TAP?

Network TAP (Test Access Point) is a hardware device, usually passive, inserted between two network nodes (e.g., between a switch and a router), recommended for ensuring uninterrupted data flow and duplicating all traffic to monitoring ports. Such TAPs transmit 100% of the traffic without introducing delays or modifying data and without affecting network operation, even in case of TAP failure.

Difference from SPAN ports: TAPs do not cut packets, do not alter timing, and are not vulnerable to attacks via network devices — providing maximum reliability and accuracy.

Network TAPs are used for:

• network diagnostics,
• continuous monitoring,
• feeding data into IDS/IPS systems, SIEM, for audit, forensic analysis,
• ensuring compliance with security regulations (e.g., HIPAA, NIS2, etc.)

Cubro Optical TAPs

Cubro offers fully passive optical TAPs that require no power and do not create a point of failure. They support Ethernet or OTN networks up to 400 Gbit/s and work with both single-mode (1310 / 1550 nm) and multi-mode (850 / 1300 nm) fiber.

• Classic Optical TAPs — 1- or 2-link, SM/MM fiber, split ratios such as 50/50, 80/20, 1/3‑19″ chassis, monitoring ports with LC SFP interface.
• OptoSlim, MTP/MPO TAPs — compact modules for QSFP cables, suitable for high-speed networks up to 100 Gbit.
• BIDI TAPs — for single-fiber (bidirectional) links with BIDI SFP, carrying bidirectional traffic (Tx/Rx) on a single optical line. These devices provide 100% traffic copy, are fully passive, and introduce no delay. Available in single- and dual-link versions, up to three TAPs can be installed in a 1/3‑19″ chassis.

Cubro Copper TAPs

Cubro produces both fully passive TAPs for 10/100 Mbps and active models for 10/100/1000 Mbps, which require power and offer extended features.

Models:

• Copper TAP 10/100‑R3 — passive TAP for Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) that does not interfere with PoE links, 100% throughput, low latency (<1 ns), continues operation during power loss.
• Copper TAP 10/100/1000‑R3 — for Gigabit Ethernet with PoE support, USB interface (version B) for port diagnostics, auto-switching without link drop.
• FlexTAP T100 and FlexTAP B — modular system: 21 TAP modules in a 3U rack chassis, redundant power supply (48 V DC), compact and scalable.

Features:

• Active models feature USB interface (version “B”) for reading TAP diagnostics, link status, duplex information, and peer compatibility.
• The device can switch automatically without losing the live link (depends on PHY chips) — reduces failover time, ensures minimal interruption.

Use Cases

• Optical TAPs — ideal for high-speed optical networks where full transparency and non-intrusion are critical, supporting up to 400 Gbit/s.
• Copper TAPs — optimal for 10/100/1000 Mbps media, especially in PoE networks, with dynamic diagnostics and fast switchover capabilities.
• Lossless monitoring: TAPs ensure 100% real-time traffic copy, including error frames — essential for IDS/IPS and forensic use, enhancing visibility of security-related traffic.
• Compatibility with all link levels — reliable operation in 5G, data centers, OT (industrial infrastructure), SDN/NFV, virtual environments, high-speed Ethernet, OTN, SONET/SDH networks.
• Reliability and continuity — TAPs continue forwarding traffic even if the device fails or power is lost, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
• Compliance and auditing — crucial for regulated industries (healthcare, finance): TAPs preserve a complete history of traffic for evidence, forensic investigations, and regulatory compliance (e.g., HIPAA, NIS2).

Advantages of Cubro Network TAPs

• Full network transparency — no packet loss, no delays, even during failures.
• High manufacturing quality and individual unit testing.
• Flexible configurations — wide range of speeds, connectors (LC, MTP, BIDI), portable options.
• Additional diagnostics via USB interfaces in active models.
• Affordable price with enterprise-grade reliability.