Opengear CM8100 RS-232
Best high-density console server for enterprise data center network management.
The Opengear CM8100 Console Server is engineered for modern data centers and enterprise networks, leveraging extensive expertise in network management. This unit provides versatile connectivity with support for up to 48 serial ports. Security is paramount, featuring an integrated TPM 2.0 module. It ensures high availability through dual power supplies and maximizes throughput with dual Ethernet ports. The CM8100 supports containerized applications for enhanced agility and integrates seamlessly with Opengear’s Lighthouse Management Software for scalable management. Its energy-efficient design helps lower the total cost of ownership by reducing power and cooling demands.
$2375.88
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
114
/ 1363
#114 in KVM Switches
Price vs Category Average
+118%
Above average
Port Interface Type
45
/ RJ-
Who it's for
- Data center managers needing to maximize limited rack space
- Network engineers requiring reliable failover for critical infrastructure
- Security teams managing sensitive environments with strict compliance standards
Who should skip it
- Generalists lacking advanced networking or security configuration experience
- Teams managing modern hardware that requires USB console connectivity
- Small businesses operating on limited IT hardware budgets
Performance breakdown
Port Density
High-capacity serial connectivity handles massive data center deployments with ease.
Security Integrity
TPM 2.0 hardware integration provides robust protection for sensitive network infrastructure.
Redundancy Reliability
Dual power supplies ensure critical uptime during unexpected electrical failures.
Scalable Management
Lighthouse software integration simplifies oversight across sprawling enterprise network environments.
Operational Efficiency
Energy-conscious design significantly lowers cooling requirements and long-term utility costs.
Deployment Agility
Containerized application support allows for flexible, modern edge computing workflows.
Key Specs
Port Interface Type
RJ-45
Number of Ports
48
Security Feature
TPM 2.0 module
Redundancy Feature
Dual power supplies
Management Interface
Lighthouse Management Software
Product Type
Console Server
Sub Type
Console Server
Model Number
CM8116-AU
Features
- Supports up to 48 serial ports
- Enterprise-grade security via TPM 2.0
- Ensures uptime with dual power supplies
- Enables containerized application deployment
- Simplifies Cisco console connections
- Maximizes connectivity with dual Ethernet
- Energy-efficient design reduces operating costs
- Scalable management via Lighthouse Software
What customers say
Network professionals highly regard the CM8100 for its exceptional reliability and robust security, viewing it as a mission critical component for out of band management. Users confirm the hardware is rock solid, essential for maintaining uptime and disaster recovery access when primary networks fail. Its integration with Lighthouse management is a key advantage, offering sophisticated control. While the initial investment is significant, most enterprise users justify the cost based on dependable performance. A common observation is that initial configuration presents a steep learning curve for new users. Despite this complexity hurdle, the overall consensus confirms the CM8100 is an industry leading solution providing unparalleled peace of mind for critical infrastructure oversight.
Know before you buy
The unit is equipped with dual power supplies, allowing it to remain operational even if one power source fails. This redundancy is essential for maintaining uptime in critical enterprise network environments.
Yes, the CM8100 is designed to simplify Cisco console connections. It uses standard RJ-45 interfaces, making it straightforward to integrate into existing Cisco-heavy network infrastructures.
The TPM 2.0 module provides enterprise-grade hardware security by protecting cryptographic keys and ensuring the integrity of the device's boot process. It adds a critical layer of defense against unauthorized access and tampering.
The server supports the deployment of containerized applications directly on the hardware. This allows you to run custom scripts or management tools locally, increasing your operational agility without needing extra external servers.
Yes, the CM8100 is fully compatible with Opengear’s Lighthouse Management Software. This integration allows for centralized, scalable management of your entire console server fleet from a single interface.
Despite supporting up to 48 serial ports, the CM8100 features an energy-efficient design. It is engineered to minimize power and cooling demands, which helps reduce the total cost of ownership over the life of the unit.
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$2376