LVL7 Adds Stackability

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. -- LVL7 Systems, Inc., the leading provider of production-ready networking software, has announced the general-availability of FASTPATH® 4.3 software. The latest release of this fourth-generation product gives original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) multiple enhancements for building next-generation enterprise and service provider Ethernet systems.

One of the key capabilities of the new FASTPATH software product is the ability to create stackable systems via low-cost copper ports located on the front-panel. LVL7’s Front-Panel Stacking approach expands the industry’s first fully-resilient stacking offering and gives users a more flexible and inexpensive way to interconnect separate units than the traditional technique of relying on a limited number of costly 10-Gigabit rear-panel ports. Whether building a front or rear-panel configuration, FASTPATH software supports combining up to eight fixed units into a cohesive stack that is operated and managed as a single system.

The FASTPATH 4.3 software also features increased routing scalability and performance, including greater protocol support to deliver full Layer 3 and Multicast Routing with Quality of Service across a stack. The new features – combined with full integration of market-leading switching silicon and system-level testing – create a production-ready turnkey solution that goes far beyond stand-alone protocol packages and open-source software.

Other enhancements available in the new software include:

“With each new release of FASTPATH software, LVL7 raises the feature and functionality bar to help OEMs deliver production-ready networking systems faster and at lower cost,” said Dave King, LVL7’s vice president of marketing and strategy. “Enhanced routing features and Front-Panel Stacking are representative of the proven versatility and value FASTPATH software has demonstrated in scores of Ethernet product applications.”

FASTPATH 4.3 software is available immediately, and already is shipping in several LVL7 OEM customer products. Pricing for the new software is unchanged.

LVL7 Systems Inc.