Description
Opengear CM8100 CM8116 Console Server
Opengear’s CM8100 CM8116 Console Server is engineered for serious enterprise and data-center environments where reliable, secure, and accessible out-of-band management is non-negotiable. This high-density console server packs 16 serial ports with straight-pinout connections, giving IT teams a single, centralized point of control for a wide array of network gear, servers, and remotely deployed devices. With dual gigabit Ethernet interfaces, robust ARM-based processing, ample memory, and hardware-backed security, the CM8100/CM8116 enables proactive maintenance, rapid troubleshooting, and safer remote access—even when the primary network is down. It’s designed to simplify scalable management across racks and sites, helping administrators reduce mean time to repair (MTTR), improve auditability, and maintain governance in regulated environments. Whether you’re managing a large campus, a colocation facility, or a remote site with limited on-site IT support, this console server delivers consistent performance and dependable remote reach to keep your infrastructure online.
- High-density serial connectivity: 16 straight-pinout serial ports allow comprehensive device access from a single box, making it easy to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot a broad set of equipment without swapping cables or cascading appliances.
- Secure, reliable networking: Two 1 GbE network interfaces provide dedicated management connectivity and reliable failover options, enabling secure out-of-band access even when primary networks are disrupted or segmented.
- Powerful, efficient processing: An ARM-based dual-core processor running at 1.6 GHz, paired with 2 GB of RAM, delivers responsive performance for multiple concurrent sessions, real-time monitoring, and fast command execution across your devices.
- Local storage and hardware security: 32 GB of flash storage supports the operating system, logging, and local backups, while TPM 2.0 offers hardware-backed security for trusted boot, secure storage, and strong protection for credentials and configurations.
- Enterprise-grade management platform: Built to support Opengear’s out-of-band management features, the CM8100/CM8116 enables automated provisioning, RBAC-based access control, secure firmware updates, and scalable remote operations across distributed environments.
Technical Details of Opengear CM8100 CM8116 Console Server
- Serial ports: 16 straight-pinout console ports for direct, reliable connections to servers, switches, routers, PDUs, and KVM-enabled devices
- Network: 2 x 1 GbE Ethernet interfaces for management and in-band/out-of-band connectivity
- CPU: ARM 1.6 GHz dual-core processor for responsive management and fast session handling
- Memory: 2 GB RAM to support multiple concurrent console sessions and monitoring tasks
- Storage: 32 GB flash for the operating system, logs, and local configuration backups
- Security: TPM 2.0 module to enable hardware-backed security features, trusted boot, and secure credential storage
How to install Opengear CM8100 CM8116 Console Server
- Plan and prepare: Identify a suitable rack location with stable power and network access. Verify you have the required 19-inch rack space and the appropriate mounting hardware for a clean, organized installation.
- Rack mount and power: Mount the unit securely in the rack and connect it to a reliable power source. If you use redundant power, configure it according to your data-center standards to maximize availability.
- Network connections: Connect the two 1 GbE Ethernet ports to your management network and, if preferred, a separate path for out-of-band access. Ensure port wiring aligns with your network diagram and security policies.
- Initial access and configuration: Power on the device and access the initial setup interface via the serial console or web UI. Configure the management IP, admin credentials, time synchronization (NTP), and basic security settings (SSH, RBAC, access lists).
- Define serial port mappings and policies: Assign each of the 16 serial ports to the devices you manage, set up user access controls, logging, and alert rules. Enable TPM-based security features and apply firmware updates if available.
- Verify operation: Confirm reachability to connected devices, test out-of-band access from both on-site and remote locations, and validate auditing, alerting, and backup procedures. Document the configuration for disaster recovery and future scaling.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the Opengear CM8100 CM8116 Console Server used for?
A: It is designed to provide secure, reliable out-of-band management for a wide range of network devices and servers. The device enables remote access, monitoring, and maintenance even when the primary network is down, helping reduce downtime and improve operational efficiency.
Q: How many serial connections does it support?
A: It supports 16 serial ports with straight-pinout connections, enabling comprehensive management of multiple devices from a single console server.
Q: What networking interfaces come with the CM8100 CM8116?
A: It features two 1 GbE Ethernet ports, suitable for separate management and data paths, VLAN segmentation, and secure remote access configurations.
Q: What security features are included?
A: The unit includes a TPM 2.0 module for hardware-backed security, alongside standard enterprise features such as secure remote access, authenticated sessions, and the ability to enforce role-based access control and auditable actions.
Q: What support and software ecosystem does it use?
A: The CM8100 CM8116 runs Opengear’s platform firmware that provides out-of-band management capabilities, automation, and scalable provisioning across distributed environments. Regular firmware updates help address security and feature enhancements.
Q: Is installation and management suitable for large deployments?
A: Yes. The device is designed to scale from small data-center racks to multi-site deployments, with centralized management, consistent configuration templates, and integration with Opengear’s orchestration and alerting workflows to streamline operations.
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