Overview

This chapter introduces traffic mirroring, key concepts, traffic mirroring types, and key terminology. Users can learn about how traffic mirroring works to enable network analysis without impacting live traffic.

Traffic mirroring

This topic explains traffic mirroring, a feature that monitors Layer 3 network traffic by directing copies to an analyzer without impacting performance. It outlines key terminology, configuration guidelines, and various mirroring types, including ERSPAN and local SPAN, to facilitate comprehensive network monitoring and analysis.

Configuration guidelines for traffic mirroring

Use these guidelines when setting up monitor sessions to manage capacity limits and tunnel configurations effectively.

Restrictions for traffic mirroring

Adhere to these restrictions when configuring traffic mirroring to ensure your setup aligns with supported interface types and monitoring capabilities.

Traffic mirroring terminology

This topic explains the essential terms and concepts required to configure and troubleshoot network monitoring sessions effectively.

Traffic mirroring types

This topic lists the various traffic mirroring methods available, such as ERSPAN, local SPAN, and ACL-based mirroring and so on. Understanding these types allows you to select the most appropriate capture technique for monitoring network data or analyzing dropped packets within your specific environment.

How traffic mirroring works

This process describes how the router duplicates Layer 3 traffic and directs it to a destination port for analysis. It explains the mechanism for capturing unicast packets that would otherwise bypass an analyzer, ensuring full visibility into network data streams for effective troubleshooting.