Console servers – also known as serial consoles, console server switches, serial console servers, serial console routers, or terminal servers – are critical for data center infrastructure management. They give administrators a single point of control for devices like servers, switches, and power distribution units (PDUs) so they don’t need to log in to each piece of equipment individually. It also uses multiple network interfaces to provide out-of-band (OOB) management, which creates an isolated network dedicated to infrastructure orchestration and troubleshooting. This OOB network remains accessible during production network outages, offering remote teams a lifeline to recover systems without costly and time-consuming on-site visits.
Console server hardware can vary significantly across different vendors and use cases. This guide compares console server hardware from the three top vendors and examines four key categories: large data centers, mixed environments, break-fix deployments, and modular solutions.
Console server hardware for large data center deployments
Large and hyperscale data centers can include hundreds or even thousands of individual devices to manage. Teams typically use infrastructure automation, like infrastructure as code (IaC), because managing devices at such a large scale is impossible to do manually. The best console server hardware for high-density data centers will include plenty of managed serial ports, support hundreds of concurrent sessions, and provide support for infrastructure automation.
Click here to compare the hardware specs of the top providers, or read below for more information.
Nodegrid Serial Console Plus (NSCP)
The Nodegrid Serial Console Plus (NSCP) from ZPE Systems is the only console server providing up to 96 RS-232 serial ports in a 1U rack-mounted form factor. Its quad-core Intel processor and robust (as well as upgradable) internal storage and RAM options, as well as its Linux-based Nodegrid OS, support Guest OS and Docker containers for third-party applications. That means the NSCP can directly host infrastructure automation (like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef), security (like Palo Alto’s next-generation firewalls and Secure Access Service Edge), and much more. Plus, it can extend zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) to legacy and mixed-vendor devices that otherwise wouldn’t support automation.
The NSCP also comes packed with hardware security features including BIOS protection, UEFI Secure Boot, self-encrypted disk (SED), Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and a multi-site VPN using IPSec, WireGuard, and OpenSSL protocols. Plus, it supports a wide range of USB environmental monitoring sensors to help remote teams control conditions in the data center or colocation facility.
Advantages:
- Up to 96 managed serial ports in a 1U appliance
- Intel x86 CPU and 4GB of RAM for 3rd-party Docker and VM apps
- Extends ZTP and automation to legacy and mixed-vendor infrastructure
- Robust on-board security features like BIOS protection and TPM 2.0
- Supports a wide range of USB environmental monitoring sensors
- Wi-Fi and 5G/4G LTE options available
- Supports over 1,000 concurrent sessions
Disadvantages:
- USB ports limited on 96-port model
Opengear CM8100
The Opengear CM8100 comes in two models: the 1G version includes up to 48 managed serial ports, while the 10G version supports up to 96 serial ports in a 2U form factor. Both models have a dual-core ARM Cortex processor and 2GB of RAM, allowing for some automation support with upgraded versions of the Lighthouse management software. They also come with an embedded firewall, IPSec and OpenVPN protocols for a single-site VPN, and TPM 2.0 security.
Advantages:
- 10G model comes with software-selectable serial ports
- Supports OpenVPN and IPSec VPNs
- Fast port speeds
Disadvantages:
- Automation and ZTP require Lighthouse software upgrade
- No cellular or Wi-Fi options
- 96-port model requires 2U of rack space
Perle IOLAN SCG (fixed)
The IOLAN SCG is Perle’s fixed-form-factor console server solution. It supports up to 48 managed serial ports and can extend ZTP to end devices. It comes with onboard security features including an embedded firewall, OpenVPN and IPSec VPN, and AES encryption. However, the IOLAN SCG’s underpowered single-core ARM processor, 1GB of RAM, and 4GB of storage limit its automation capabilities, and it does not integrate with any third-party automation or orchestration solutions.
Advantages:
- Supports ZTP for end devices
- Comprehensive firewall functionality
Disadvantages
- Very limited CPU, RAM, and flash storage
- Does not support third-party automation
Comparison Table: Console Server Hardware for Large Data Centers
| Nodegrid NSCP | Opengear CM8100 | Perle IOLAN SCG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serial Ports | 16 / 32 / 48 / 96x RS-232 | 16 / 32 / 48 / 96x RS-232 | 16 / 32 / 48x RS-232 |
| Max Port Speed | 230,400 bps | 230,400 bps | 230,000 bps |
| Network Interfaces |
2x SFP+ 2x ETH 1x Wi-Fi (optional) 2x Dual SIM LTE (optional) |
2x ETH | 1x ETH |
| Additional Interfaces |
1x RS-232 console 2x USB 3.0 Type A 1x HDMI Output |
1x RS-232 console 2x USB 3.0 |
1x RS-232 console 1x Micro USB w/DB9 Adapter |
| Environmental Monitoring | Any USB sensors | – | – |
| CPU | Intel x86_64 Quad-Core | ARM Cortex-A9 1.6 GHz Dual-Core | ARM 32-bit 500MHz Single-Core |
| Storage | 32GB SSD (upgrades available) | 32GB eMMC | 4GB Flash |
| RAM | 4GB DDR4 (upgrades available) | 2GB DDR4 | 1GB |
| Power |
Single or Dual AC Dual DC |
Dual AC Dual DC |
Single AC |
| Form Factor | 1U Rack Mounted |
1U Rack Mounted (up to 48 ports) 2U Rack Mounted (96 ports) |
1U Rack Mounted |
| Data Sheet | Download | Download |
Console server hardware for mixed environments
Data center deployments that include a mix of legacy and modern solutions from multiple vendors benefit from console server hardware that includes software-selectable serial ports. This feature allows administrators to manage devices with straight or rolled RS-232 pinouts from the same console server.
Click here to compare the hardware specs of the top providers, or read below for more information.
Nodegrid Serial Console S Series
The Nodegrid Serial Console S Series has up to 48 auto-sensing RS-232 serial ports and 14 high-speed managed USB ports, allowing for the control of up to 62 devices. Like the NSCP, the S Series has a quad-core Intel CPU and upgradeable storage and RAM, supporting third-party VMs and containers for automation, orchestration, security, and more. It also comes with the same robust security features to protect the management network.
Advantages:
- Includes 14 high-speed managed USB ports
- Intel x86 CPU and 4GBof RAM for 3rd-party Docker and VM apps
- Supports a wide range of USB environmental monitoring sensors
- Extends ZTP and automation to legacy and mixed-vendor infrastructure
- Robust on-board security features like BIOS protection and TPM 2.0
- Supports 250+ concurrent sessions
Disadvantages
- Only offers 1Gbps and Ethernet connectivity for OOB
Opengear OM2200
The Opengear OM2200 comes with 16, 32, or 48 software-selectable RS-232 ports, or, with the OM2224-24E model, 24 RS-232 and 24 managed Ethernet ports. It also includes 8 managed USB ports and the option for a V.92 analog modem. It has impressive storage space and 8GB of DDR4 RAM for automated workflows, though, as with all Opengear solutions, the upgraded version of the Lighthouse management software is required for ZTP and NetOps automation support.
Advantages:
- Optional managed Ethernet ports
- Optional V.92 analog modem for OOB
- 64GB of storage and 8GB DDR4 RAM
Disadvantages:
- Automation and ZTP require Lighthouse software upgrade
- No cellular or Wi-Fi options
Comparison Table: Console Server Hardware for Mixed Environments
| Nodegrid S Series | Opengear OM2200 | |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Ports |
16 / 32 / 48x Software Selectable RS-232 14x USB-A serial |
16 / 32 / 48x Software Selectable RS-232 8x USB 2.0 serial
(OM2224-24E) 24x Software Selectable RS-232 and 24x Managed Ethernet |
| Max Port Speed |
230,400 bps (RS-232) 921,600 bps (USB) |
230,400 bps |
| Network Interfaces | 2x1Gbps or 2x ETH |
2x SFP+ or 2x ETH 1x V.92 modem (select models) |
| Additional Interfaces |
1x RS-232 console 1x USB 3.0 Type A 1x HDMI Output |
1x RS-232 console 1x Micro USB 2x USB 3.0 |
| Environmental Monitoring | Any USB sensors | – |
| CPU | Intel x86_64 Dual-Core | AMD GX-412TC 1.4 GHz Quad-Core |
| Storage | 32GB SSD (upgrades available) | 64GB SSD |
| RAM | 4GB DDR4 (upgrades available) | 8GB DDR3 |
| Power |
Single or Dual AC Dual DC |
Dual AC Dual DC |
| Form Factor | 1U Rack Mounted | 1U Rack Mounted |
| Data Sheet | Download | Download |
Console server hardware for break-fix deployments
A full-featured console server solution may be too complicated and expensive for certain use cases, especially for organizations just looking for “break-fix” OOB access to remotely troubleshoot and recover from issues. The best console server hardware for this type of deployment provides fast and reliable network access to managed devices without extra features that increase the price and complexity.
Click here to compare the hardware specs of the top providers, or read below for more information.
Nodegrid Serial Console Core Edition (NSCP-CE)
The Nodegrid Serial Console Core Edition (NSCP-CE) provides the same hardware and security features as the NSCP, as well as ZTP, but without the advanced automation capabilities. Its streamlined management and affordable price tag make it ideal for lean, budget-conscious IT departments. And, like all Nodegrid solutions, it comes with the most comprehensive hardware security features in the industry.
Advantages:
- Up to 48 managed serial ports in a 1U appliance
- Extends ZTP and automation to legacy and mixed-vendor infrastructure
- Robust on-board security features like BIOS protection and TPM
- Supports a wide range of USB environmental monitoring sensors
- Analog modem and 5G/4G LTE options available
- Supports over 100 concurrent sessions
Disadvantages
- Supports automation only via ZPE Cloud
Opengear CM7100
The Opengear CM7100 is the previous generation of the CM8100 solution. Its serial and network interface options are the same, but it comes with a weaker, Armada 800 MHz CPU, and there are options for smaller storage and RAM configurations to reduce the price. As with all Opengear console servers, the CM7100 doesn’t support ZTP without paying for an upgraded Lighthouse license, however.
Advantages:
- Can reduce storage and RAM to save money
- Supports OpenVPN and IPSec VPNs
- Fast port speeds
Disadvantages:
- Automation and ZTP require Lighthouse software upgrade
- No cellular or Wi-Fi options
- 96-port model requires 2U of rack space
Comparison Table: Console Server Hardware for Break-Fix Deployments
| Nodegrid NSCP-CE | Opengear CM7100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Ports | 16 / 32 / 48 / RS-232 | 16 / 32 / 48 / 96x RS-232 |
| Max Port Speed | 230,400 bps | 230,400 bps |
| Network Interfaces |
2x SFP ETH 1x Analog modem (optional) 2x 5G/4G LTE (optional) |
2x ETH |
| Additional Interfaces |
1x RS-232 console 2x USB 3.0 Type A |
1x RS-232 console 2x USB 2.0 |
| Environmental Monitoring | Any USB sensors | Smoke, water leak, vibration |
| CPU | Intel x86_64 Dual-Core | Armada 370 ARMv7 800 MHz |
| Storage | 16GB Flash (upgrades available) | 4-64GB storage |
| RAM | 4GB DDR4 (upgrades available) | 256MB-2GB DDR3 |
| Power |
Dual AC Dual DC |
Single or Dual AC |
| Form Factor | 1U Rack Mounted |
1U Rack Mounted (up to 48 ports) 2U Rack Mounted (96 ports) |
| Data Sheet | Download | Download |
Modular console server hardware for flexible deployments
Modular console servers allow organizations to create customized solutions tailored to their specific deployment and use case. They also support easy scaling by allowing teams to add more managed ports as the network grows, and provide the flexibility to swap-out certain capabilities and customize their hardware and software as the needs of the business change.
Click here to compare the hardware specs of the top providers, or read below for more information.
Nodegrid Net Services Router (NSR)
The Nodegrid Net Services Router (NSR) has up to five expansion bays that can support any combination of 16 RS-232 or 16 USB serial modules. In addition to managed ports, there are NSR modules for Ethernet (with or without PoE – Power over Ethernet) switch ports, Wi-Fi and dual-SIM cellular, additional SFP ports, extra storage, and compute.
The NSR comes with an eight-core Intel CPU and 8GB DDR4 RAM, offering the same vendor-neutral Guest OS/Docker support and onboard security features as the NSCP. It can also run virtualized network functions to consolidate an entire networking stack in a single device. This makes the NSR adaptable to nearly any deployment scenario, including hyperscale data centers, edge computing sites, and branch offices.
Advantages:
- Up to 5 expansion bays provide support for up to 80 managed devices
- 8GB of DDR4 RAM
- Robust on-board security features like BIOS protection and TPM 2.0
- Supports a wide range of USB environmental monitoring sensors
- Wi-Fi and 5G/4G LTE options available
- Optional modules for various interfaces, extra storage, and compute
Disadvantages
- No V.92 modem support
Perle IOLAN SCG L/W/M
The Perle IOLAN SCG modular series is customizable with cellular LTE, Wi-Fi, a V.92 analog modem, or any combination of the three. It also has three expansion bays that support any combination of 16-port RS-232 or 16-port USB modules. Otherwise, this version of the IOLAN SCG comes with the same security features and hardware limitations as the fixed form factor models.
Advantages:
- Cellular, Wi-Fi, and analog modem options
- Supports ZTP for end devices
- Comprehensive firewall functionality
Disadvantages
- Very limited CPU, RAM, and flash storage
- Does not support third-party automation
Comparison Table: Modular Console Server Hardware
| Nodegrid NSR | Perle IOLAN SCG R/U | |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Ports |
16 / 32 / 48 / 64 / 80x RS-232 with up to 5 serial modules 16 / 32 / 48 / 64 / 80x USB with up to 5 serial modules |
Up to 50x RS-232/422/485 Up to 50x USB |
| Max Port Speed | 230,400 bps | 230,000 bps |
| Network Interfaces |
1x SFP+ 1x ETH with PoE in 1x Wi-Fi (optional) 1x Dual SIM LTE (optional) |
2x SFP or 2x ETH |
| Additional Interfaces |
1x RS-232 console 2x USB 2.0 Type A 2x GPIO 2x Digital Out 1x VGA Optional Modules (up to 5): 16x ETH 8x PoE+ 16x SFP 8x SFP+ 16x USB OCP Debug |
1x RS-232 console 1x Micro USB w/DB9 adapter
|
| Environmental Monitoring | Any USB sensors | – |
| CPU | Intel x86_64 Quad- or Eight-Core | ARM 32-bit 500MHz Single-Core |
| Storage | 32GB SSD (upgrades available) | 4GB Flash |
| RAM | 8GB DDR4 (upgrades available | 1GB |
| Power |
Dual AC Dual DC |
Dual AC Dual DC |
| Form Factor | 1U Rack Mounted | 1U Rack Mounted |
| Data Sheet | Download | Download |
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