Extreme Networks Inc. recently released ServiceWatch, a network-monitoring application that features Layer 7 application dial tone. ServiceWatch allows ASPs and ISPs to automatically correct impending problems, which reduces network downtime. It features a Web-based interface and is capable of monitoring up to 1,000 services. Administrator-defined parameters include service type, location of service, username and password, and monitoring interval. In addition, the product's open architecture allows support over TCP of user-defined service types.
ServiceWatch 1.0 is available immediately for Solaris, with versions for Windows 2000/NT and Linux expected to ship later this year. It starts at US$2,995 for 5 services, ranging up to $US19,995 for 100 services. A free trial version is available from the company.