To support network troubleshooting, performance analysis, and network forensics, Profitap has developed the IOTA range of traffic capture and analysis solutions. The line-up consists of different models: IOTA EDGE and IOTA CORE.

Our IOTA EDGE models are versatile traffic capture and analysis tools, specifically designed to provide deep insights into edge networks, and for monitoring remote locations, such as branch offices. Below, we explore its key deployment scenarios and their advantages. Some facts about the IOTA EDGE models:

Capture performance of up to 3.2 Gbps Remotely analyze networks Visibility over 3000+ applications and protocols Create, modify, and share dashboards across multiple users in a web-based environment. 1 or 2 TB internal SSD storage for PCAP files. (Removable on 1G+ and 10G+ models) GPS and PPS ports to provide advanced timestamping and synchronization features (on 1G+ and 10G+ models).

Image: IOTA 10G + model with 2 SFP capture ports, removable SSD slot.

In-Line Deployment

In-line deployment positions the IOTA directly in the data path, enabling it to capture 100% of network traffic. This method is especially useful for continuous, long-term packet capture of specific protocols, real-time traffic analysis, and application monitoring, where low latency and high security are critical. To further enhance reliability and security, all EDGE models feature Data Diode Isolation, ensuring unidirectional data flow and protecting the network from external interference. Meanwhile, the RJ45 models of the IOTA are fail-safe, preserving link continuity even in the event of power loss or device failure. Common use cases include deep packet inspection (DPI), such as VoIP performance monitoring.

Out-of-Band Deployment

In an out-of-band setup, the IOTA is connected to a SPAN port or a network TAP, enabling passive traffic monitoring without impacting network performance. This approach is ideal for forensic analysis, compliance monitoring, and network diagnostics, providing full traffic visibility with zero interference. Out-of-band deployment is beneficial in environments where quick setup is essential, where SPAN port limitations must be considered, or where temporarily taking a connection offline to insert an in-line device is not an option.

Remote Capture and Analysis

With an integrated VPN, the IOTA enables network engineers to capture and analyze traffic from distant locations. This is particularly useful for organizations with multiple branch offices, data centers, or cloud environments. Secure remote access allows for centralized troubleshooting, performance monitoring, and security investigations without requiring physical presence at the capture site.

Capturing and analyzing network traffic with IOTA

Out of the box, IOTA comes with integrated software to help analyze the captured data in real-time. By extracting metadata from the captured files, IOTA quickly gives you a visual overview of what is happening on your network. The raw packet data is conserved for later analysis, if necessary.

Application Overview dashboard displayed on a laptop.

IOTA dashboards help you instantly filter large amounts of network traffic, significantly optimizing your workflow and reducing time spent on troubleshooting.

Here are some common use-cases and step-by-step guides from our Knowledge Base you can follow:

• Capture status and toggle script
• Detecting blacklisted IP addresses through IOTA API
• Troubleshooting DNS
• Efficient Analysis of VoIP Issues
• Application Latency Analysis