When it comes to managing network infrastructure remotely, a reliable console server for out of band management is essential. The best options offer robust remote access, high security, and expandability, but they also vary in features, complexity, and price. The Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 stands out as the overall top pick for its combination of performance and ease of use. For those prioritizing security, the Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced offers advanced features, while the Opengear CM7116-2-DAC provides excellent scalability. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what to consider before buying.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 offers a balance of high port count and robust remote management features.
- Security features, such as dual power supplies and encrypted access, are a key differentiator among the best options.
- Scalability varies widely; some models support only a handful of serial ports, while others manage dozens across modular setups.
- Ease of deployment and user interface are often overlooked but critical for quick setup and ongoing management.
- Renewed or refurbished units can provide significant savings but may lack the latest firmware or full warranty coverage.
| Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 Serial Console, 8 Port, Dual Power, Remote Management |  | Best Overall for Data Center Out-of-Band Management | Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 17.3 x 1.8 inches | Item Weight: 6.4 pounds | Number of Ports: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Console Manager – Secure Out-of-Band Management – Modular 8-48 Serial Ports (RJ45/USB) – Dual GbE – AC/DC Power |  | Best for Enterprise Security and Modular Flexibility | Number of Serial Ports: 8-48 | Serial Port Type: RJ45/USB | Number of USB Ports: 2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Opengear CM7116-2-DAC Terminal Server |  | Best for Flexible, Enterprise-Grade Out-of-Band Management | Number of ports: 16-48 | Management: Out-of-band | Ethernet: Dual Gigabit | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Opengear IM7248-2-DAC 48-Port Console Server & Infrastructure Manager with Dual Power Cords (Renewed) |  | Best for Compact, Rack-Mountable Remote Infrastructure Management | Product Dimensions: 10 x 17.32 x 1.77 inches | Item Weight: 9.9 pounds | Number of Ports: 48 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Console Manager – Secure Out-of-Band Management with 8-48 Serial Ports |  | Best for Flexible, Secure Enterprise Serial Management | Number of Serial Ports: 8-48 | Serial Port Type: RJ45/USB | Number of USB Ports: 2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Opengear CM7100 Series Console Server |  | Best for Large-Scale, Automated Out-of-Band Management | Model: CM7100 Series | Number of Ports: Up to 96 | Form Factor: 1 RU | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Device Server (Renewed) |  | Best for Serial Device Management in Space-Constrained Settings | Serial Ports: 8 | Connectivity: Ethernet and Wi-Fi | Product Dimensions: 12.01 x 17.24 x 1.73 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| console server for out of band management | Item Weight | Product Dimensions | Number of Ports |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 Serial | 6.4 pounds | 9.5 x 17.3 x 1.8 inches | 8 |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Co | 11.09 pounds | — | — |
| Opengear CM7116-2-DAC Terminal | — | — | 16-48 |
| Opengear IM7248-2-DAC 48-Port | 9.9 pounds | 10 x 17.32 x 1.77 inches | 48 |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Co | 11.09 pounds | 23 x 14.5 x 5 inches | — |
| Opengear CM7100 Series Console | — | — | Up to 96 |
| Lantronix SLC 8000 Device Serv | 11.1 pounds | 12.01 x 17.24 x 1.73 inches | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 Serial Console, 8 Port, Dual Power, Remote Management
The Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 stands out for its comprehensive feature set tailored to data centers, including dual power supplies and environmental sensors that boost reliability and monitoring. Compared with the Opengear IM7248-2-DAC, it offers more advanced environmental monitoring, but its larger size and complex setup might challenge smaller teams or less technical users. The dual Ethernet ports ensure network redundancy, making it ideal for critical infrastructure. However, its higher price and bulkier design mean it’s less suited for space-constrained environments or those seeking a simple, budget-friendly solution. This device makes the most sense for large-scale data centers requiring robust, reliable remote management with extensive environmental oversight.
Pros:- Supports remote out-of-band management for critical infrastructure
- Includes environmental sensors for real-time monitoring
- Dual power supplies enhance system uptime
- Multiple USB ports for external device support
Cons:- Setup process can be complex for less experienced staff
- Bulkier size may limit installation options
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for small budgets
Best for: Data center managers needing a reliable, feature-rich console server for critical remote management.
Not ideal for: Small IT setups or offices with limited space, due to its size and complexity.
- Product Dimensions:9.5 x 17.3 x 1.8 inches
- Item Weight:6.4 pounds
- Number of Ports:8
- Power Supply:Dual AC
- Connectivity:Dual 1 gigabit Ethernet
- Memory:16GB flash memory
- Processor:Dual-core ARM
- Additional Features:USB 2.0 ports, environmental sensors, analog modem
Our verdict“This console server is best suited for large data centers demanding high reliability and environmental monitoring capability.”
Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Console Manager – Secure Out-of-Band Management – Modular 8-48 Serial Ports (RJ45/USB) – Dual GbE – AC/DC Power
The Lantronix SLC 8000 excels in environments where security and customization are priorities, with encrypted communications and modular serial ports supporting 8 to 48 connections. Compared to the Opengear CM7116-2-DAC, it offers a broader range of serial ports and strong security features, making it ideal for highly sensitive enterprise settings. Its dual Gigabit Ethernet ports provide redundancy, but the device’s large footprint and complex setup can be daunting for smaller teams or those unfamiliar with enterprise-grade hardware. The modular design allows tailored configurations, but this flexibility comes with increased cost and setup effort. This model is best for organizations requiring extensive, secure serial management in a scalable form factor.
Pros:- Secure, encrypted management communications
- Modular serial port configuration for scalability
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet for network resilience
- Supports up to 48 serial ports
Cons:- Large and potentially space-consuming device
- Complex setup requiring technical expertise
- Higher cost compared to simpler models
Best for: Large enterprises and security-conscious organizations with complex serial management needs.
Not ideal for: Small businesses or teams seeking a plug-and-play, straightforward console server.
- Number of Serial Ports:8-48
- Serial Port Type:RJ45/USB
- Number of USB Ports:2
- Ethernet Ports:Dual GbE
- Power:AC/DC
- Item Weight:11.09 pounds
Our verdict“Ideal for large-scale, security-focused enterprise deployments requiring extensive serial management and redundancy.”
Opengear CM7116-2-DAC Terminal Server
The Opengear CM7116-2-DAC offers a high-performance solution for managing 16 to 48 ports with out-of-band access, making it suitable for large enterprises. It features dual Gigabit Ethernet and redundant power supplies, emphasizing reliability. Compared to the Lantronix SLC 8000, it provides a broader range of port counts, though its setup is still somewhat complex and geared toward technically proficient teams. The embedded local storage and security options like TACACS+ and Active Directory support elevate its enterprise credentials. However, its higher cost and potential complexity may deter smaller organizations or those seeking a quick deployment. This device suits organizations needing extensive, reliable remote management with security and audit features.
Pros:- Supports a wide range of ports (16-48) for flexible deployment
- Redundant power supplies enhance uptime
- Advanced security and audit logging features
- Embedded local storage for logging and recovery
Cons:- Setup may be complex for less experienced users
- Higher price point typical of enterprise hardware
- Limited information on software capabilities
Best for: Large enterprise IT teams managing multiple critical network and server devices remotely.
Not ideal for: Small or mid-sized businesses without dedicated technical staff for complex setup.
- Number of ports:16-48
- Management:Out-of-band
- Ethernet:Dual Gigabit
- Power supplies:Dual AC
- Storage:Embedded 4GB
- Security:AAA, Active Directory, TACACS+
Our verdict“This console server is tailored for large organizations requiring scalable, secure, and reliable out-of-band management infrastructure.”
Opengear IM7248-2-DAC 48-Port Console Server & Infrastructure Manager with Dual Power Cords (Renewed)
The Opengear IM7248-2-DAC is designed for efficient, remote out-of-band access to network infrastructure, with 48 ports and dual power cords ensuring high availability. Its compact form factor makes it suitable for rack mounting, and customer reviews highlight its reliability and ease of use. Compared with the larger Lantronix SLC 8000, it offers similar port capacity but in a smaller footprint, making it a better choice for space-limited environments. The limited details on advanced software or security features suggest it’s best for organizations that prioritize straightforward, dependable management over extensive customization. The renewed status might be a concern for some buyers, but its high ratings support its reliability for enterprise or mid-sized deployments.
Pros:- Provides extensive remote management for network infrastructure
- Includes dual power cords for redundancy
- Compact, rack-mountable design
- Highly rated with positive customer reviews
Cons:- Limited information on advanced features or software capabilities
- Renewed product status may affect warranty or reliability perceptions
- Potentially higher cost due to renewal status
Best for: Network teams needing a reliable, space-efficient console server for rack-mounted environments.
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring highly customizable security features or extensive software integration.
- Product Dimensions:10 x 17.32 x 1.77 inches
- Item Weight:9.9 pounds
- Number of Ports:48
- Power Cords:Dual
- Management:Out-of-band
Our verdict“This device suits organizations seeking a reliable, rack-mountable console server with strong redundancy features and straightforward management.”
Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced Console Manager – Secure Out-of-Band Management with 8-48 Serial Ports
The Lantronix SLC 8000 offers a flexible, secure approach to serial console management, supporting 8 to 48 serial ports with encrypted communications and dual Gigabit Ethernet for network resilience. Compared to the similar SLC 8000 model with more ports, this version emphasizes security and modularity, making it suitable for organizations with diverse serial device needs. Its weight and size demand sturdy mounting and space considerations, but its extensive security features and manufacturer backing make it a strong choice for enterprise environments. Limited mention of wireless capabilities means it’s primarily wired, which might be a restriction for some setups. Overall, it is well-suited for teams requiring customizable, secure serial management with proven enterprise support.
Pros:- Secure, encrypted management communications
- Modular configuration supports 8-48 ports
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports for redundancy
- Backed by manufacturer warranty and support
Cons:- Heavy weight may require sturdy mounting options
- Limited to wired connections, no wireless support
- Designed for enterprise use, complexity may be overkill for smaller setups
Best for: Enterprises managing a variety of serial devices requiring secure, flexible out-of-band access.
Not ideal for: Small offices or setups seeking simple or wireless management solutions.
- Number of Serial Ports:8-48
- Serial Port Type:RJ45/USB
- Number of USB Ports:2
- Ethernet Ports:Dual GbE
- Item Weight:11.09 pounds
- Product Dimensions:23 x 14.5 x 5 inches
Our verdict“This console management device is ideal for large organizations needing secure, scalable serial port management with enterprise-grade features.”
Opengear CM7100 Series Console Server
The Opengear CM7100 Series stands out for its impressive scalability, supporting up to 96 ports within a compact 1 RU form factor. Compared to the Lantronix SLC 8000 Device Server, which offers fewer serial ports, this model is ideal for environments requiring extensive device management without expanding physical space. Its advanced automation, RESTful API, and ZTP features make it suitable for sophisticated network setups that demand seamless integration and remote control. However, setting up the CM7100 can be complex for beginners, especially given its broad feature set, and it requires a compatible network environment to unlock its full potential. For large data centers or service providers needing centralized, automated console access, this device provides a cost-effective yet powerful solution—though it may be overwhelming for smaller teams or less experienced administrators.
Pros:- Supports up to 96 ports in a compact 1 RU form factor
- Includes advanced automation, API, and ZTP features
- Cost-effective for large-scale deployments
Cons:- Setup can be complex for users unfamiliar with automation tools
- Limited detail on specific port types or management features in the specifications
Best for: Large network operations or data centers that require extensive, automated out-of-band management with high port density
Not ideal for: Small offices or teams new to console server management who need simple, plug-and-play solutions
- Model:CM7100 Series
- Number of Ports:Up to 96
- Form Factor:1 RU
- Features:Hyperscale, Automation, ZTP, RESTful API, Lighthouse
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for large-scale, automated network environments where scalability and integration are priorities.”
Lantronix SLC 8000 Device Server (Renewed)
The Lantronix SLC 8000 Device Server excels in managing multiple serial devices simultaneously, with 8 serial ports and flexible Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity. Compared to the Opengear CM7100, which focuses on large-scale console management, the SLC 8000 offers a more straightforward solution for serial device control, making it a strong choice for smaller or space-limited setups. Its support for secure data transmission through encryption and user authentication enhances safety, but its bulkier size (over 12 inches in length) may pose challenges in tight spaces. Being a renewed product, it might also come with limited warranty coverage, and it requires some network configuration knowledge to operate effectively. For technical teams managing serial equipment in constrained environments, this device offers a user-friendly management interface and versatile connectivity—though space and warranty considerations are important.
Pros:- Supports multiple serial devices via 8 ports
- Flexible connectivity with Ethernet and Wi-Fi
- Secure data transmission with encryption and authentication
- Web-based management interface
Cons:- Bulkier size may be difficult in very tight spaces
- Renewed condition may limit warranty coverage
Best for: Technical teams managing serial devices in space-limited environments who need secure, flexible Ethernet/Wi-Fi connectivity
Not ideal for: Large-scale data centers with hundreds of serial ports or users seeking automation features, as it lacks extensive automation support
- Serial Ports:8
- Connectivity:Ethernet and Wi-Fi
- Product Dimensions:12.01 x 17.24 x 1.73 inches
- Item Weight:11.1 pounds
- Model Number:SLC82322201S
Our verdict“This device makes sense for small to medium serial management needs in confined spaces, emphasizing security and ease of use, but not for large-scale automation.”
How We Picked
Products were evaluated based on performance, build quality, ease of deployment, security features, and expandability. We prioritized models that support remote management with minimal latency and robust security options suitable for enterprise environments. Cost-effectiveness was also a factor, considering both new and refurbished options. The ranking reflects a balance between features, reliability, and value, with a focus on models that serve different organizational sizes and needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Console Server For Out Of Band Management
Choosing the right console server for out of band management depends on several key factors. It’s vital to consider the number of serial ports needed, security features, scalability, and ease of use. Beyond technical specs, think about your organization’s growth plans and whether the device can adapt over time. Compatibility with existing infrastructure and support options are equally important. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating port requirements or overlooking security features that could expose your network.Number of Ports and Scalability
Assess your current needs for serial connections and consider future expansion. Some console servers support only a handful of ports, making them suitable for small setups, while others are modular and support dozens of connections. Scalability is essential if you anticipate network growth or increased management complexity, so choose a model that can grow with your organization without requiring complete replacement.
Security Features
Security is paramount in out of band management, especially for remote access to critical network devices. Look for options with encrypted communications, dual power supplies, and access controls like LDAP or RADIUS integration. A model lacking these features might expose your network to vulnerabilities or unauthorized access, which can be costly and disruptive.
Ease of Deployment and Management
The interface and setup process should be straightforward to minimize downtime. Devices with intuitive web-based management and clear documentation reduce the need for extensive training. Consider whether the console server supports remote firmware updates and troubleshooting, which can save time and reduce maintenance complexity.
Build Quality and Reliability
Since these devices often operate 24/7 in critical environments, durability and consistent performance matter. Metal chassis and redundant power supplies contribute to longevity and uptime. Cheap or poorly assembled models might fail unexpectedly, leading to costly outages or hardware replacements.
Cost and Support Options
Balance your budget against the features you need. While refurbished units can be appealing for cost savings, verify warranty terms and support availability. Investing in a slightly higher-priced model with comprehensive support might save money long term by reducing downtime and maintenance hassles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a console server for out of band management with my existing network hardware?
Yes, most console servers are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing network devices, provided they support standard protocols like SSH, Telnet, or IPMI. Compatibility with your hardware depends on the console server’s connection types and management interfaces. It’s essential to verify port support and management protocols before purchase to ensure smooth integration.
What security measures should I look for in a console server?
Security features like encrypted remote access, multi-factor authentication, and support for secure protocols such as SSH are critical. Dual power supplies and physical security features add to the robustness, especially in sensitive environments. Always check for firmware update capabilities to patch vulnerabilities as they emerge, maintaining your network’s integrity.
Is it better to buy a modular or fixed-port console server?
Modular console servers offer greater flexibility, allowing you to expand port capacity as your needs grow, making them ideal for large or evolving networks. Fixed-port models tend to be more straightforward and cost-effective for smaller setups. Your choice should depend on current requirements and anticipated future expansion to avoid costly replacements.
How important is remote management ease for ongoing maintenance?
Ease of remote management significantly reduces operational overhead and troubleshooting time. Look for devices with intuitive interfaces, comprehensive logging, and remote firmware updates. A complicated setup can lead to mistakes or delays during critical outages, making user-friendly management a worthwhile investment.
Are refurbished console servers reliable enough for enterprise use?
Refurbished units can be reliable if sourced from reputable vendors offering warranties and support. They typically provide significant cost savings but may lack the latest hardware revisions or firmware. For critical environments, weigh the risk of potential hardware aging against the budget benefits, and consider whether the vendor offers reliable after-sales support.
Conclusion
For organizations seeking the best overall blend of features and ease of use, the Vertiv Avocent ACS8000 provides a versatile solution suitable for most enterprise environments. Smaller teams or budget-conscious buyers might find the Lantronix SLC 8000 Advanced offers excellent value with security and expansion options. For those prioritizing scalability and future growth, the Opengear CM7116-2-DAC stands out as a flexible, high-performance choice. Beginners or small offices will appreciate straightforward, easy-to-deploy models, while large enterprises should consider modular, high-port solutions with extensive support options.
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