Dynamically Tune Distributed Internet Sites

F5's newest load-balancing software lets ISPs and enterprises adjust distributed network operations based on administrator-specified parameters.

by Wayne Kawamoto [January 20, 2000]

F5 Networks, Inc. recently released version 2.0 of its 3DNS Controller. This newest version lets businesses manage traffic across their geographically distributed Internet sites based on customer-defined parameters, such as the time of day or other specific operating conditions. According to the company, its 3DNS Controllers are the only products that work with a vendor's local area load balancing system to gather metrics that may be used to make wide-area decisions for load balancing.

The 3DNS Controllers rely on F5's Dynamic Ratio algorithm to make intelligent load balancing decisions. This patent-pending algorithm distributes incoming traffic to servers in proportions determined by a Quality of Service calculation, which uses criteria set by the enterprise. The controllers can also load balance SSL traffic across multiple sites, and with the addition of NameSurfer, simplify DNS zone-file management by serving as a "spellchecker" for DNS.

"3DNS is a natural fit for ISPs and is really a critical component for their networks, since it provides quality control for their servers, networks, content, and traffic and policy management, regardless of platform type or combination," says Dan Matte, Director of Product Management at F5 Networks. "3DNS's e-Business-rule capability, for example, allows ISPs to manage their traffic flow to address real-world business operations and issues; ultimately helping them to optimize Quality of Service to their customers."

Pricing and availability
The 3DNS+ Controller, a wide-area, high-availability controller, is available for $34,990. The 3DNS HA+Controller, a fully redundant wide area high availability controller is priced at $60,990. F5 Network's Premium level service includes unlimited server license, one day installation and integration, 1 year access to 7x24 phone support, e-mail, and "ASK F5" online support/knowledge-base.

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