Opengear CM8100 Console Server

The CM8100 Console Server from Opengear is the flagship console manager designed to secure, simplify, and accelerate data center and enterprise network operations. Building on 18 years of Opengear product leadership, the CM8100 delivers a robust, scalable solution for multi-rack environments, delivering reliable out-of-band management, granular control, and hardware-backed security. With up to 48 serial ports, enterprise-grade security featuring a TPM 2.0 module, and independent monitoring capabilities, the CM8100 is built to keep critical devices reachable, even when primary networks fail. It’s the modern answer for administrators who demand resilient access, rapid remediation, and centralized visibility across diverse gear—from servers and storage to networking devices and PDUs. This console server is engineered to reduce mean time to repair (MTTR), improve compliance posture, and unify remote management across geographies and time zones.

• Up to 48 serial ports for scalable device management across servers, network gear, and field-installed equipment. The CM8100 supports wide-ranging console connections (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485) in a compact 1U footprint, enabling administrators to consolidate remote access to a diverse fleet of devices from a single, secure interface. This high port density is ideal for data centers, colocation facilities, and large enterprise networks where every device deserves reliable, auditable access.
• Enterprise-grade security with a built-in TPM 2.0 module. The hardware-based root of trust strengthens authentication, secure boot processes, and tamper resistance, ensuring that firmware and software updates are trusted before they are executed. Paired with strong encryption (SSH, TLS) and centralized access controls, the CM8100 minimizes risk while delivering compliant, auditable remote management for sensitive equipment.
• Independent monitoring and resilient out-of-band management. The CM8100 operates independently from primary network paths, allowing administrators to reach devices even during network outages. Its monitoring capabilities detect faults, provide alerts, and support automated remediation workflows so IT teams can diagnose and fix issues without disrupting production services.
• Unified, centralized administration for data centers and enterprise networks. The CM8100 integrates with Opengear’s management software to provide policy-driven automation, role-based access control, and scalable orchestration. IT teams gain visibility into serial port activity, device health, and configuration changes, enabling consistent incident response and faster deployment across sites.
• Flexible and secure remote access for engineering and ops teams. The CM8100 supports secure access over encrypted channels, with granular authorization, audit trails, and compatibility with standard management protocols. Whether your teams are on-site, remote, or traveling between sites, the CM8100 ensures reliable console access with comprehensive security and governance baked in.

Technical Details of Opengear CM8100 Console Server

• Serial port capability: Up to 48 configurable serial ports (RS-232/RS-422/RS-485) to connect a wide range of servers, storage systems, switches, routers, and PDUs from a single console management point.
• Security and trust: TPM 2.0 hardware module for secure boot, hardware-based trust, and protection against firmware tampering; supports robust authentication, encryption, and tamper evidence for critical devices.
• Management interfaces: Multiple network interfaces for in-band and out-of-band management; supports SSH, TLS, SNMP, and RESTful API access for automation and integration with existing ITSM and monitoring stacks.
• Power and reliability: Designed for 24/7 operation with options for redundant power delivery to minimize downtime and maintain console access during power events or equipment failures.
• Deployment and scalability: Built to scale across large data centers and distributed enterprise environments; integrates with Opengear’s orchestration and automation tools to streamline onboarding, policy enforcement, and fault remediation.
• Operating environment and compatibility: Compatible with standard data-center management workflows; supports common authentication backends and logging to SIEM systems for enhanced security monitoring.

How to Install Opengear CM8100

• Prepare the installation space: Verify a standard 19-inch rack mounting area, adequate airflow, and tempered environment suitable for 1U devices. Ensure you have access to power, network, and serial device locations.
• Mount the unit: Secure the CM8100 in the rack using included rails or mounting hardware. Ensure front-panel ports are accessible for cabling and routine maintenance.
• Connect power: If your model includes dual power options, connect one power supply to a primary power source and the second to a redundant source. Confirm power indicators illuminate correctly before proceeding.
• Configure network connections: Attach management network cables to the CM8100’s management interfaces and, if applicable, connect out-of-band and in-band networks. Consider configuring DHCP initially or assign a static management IP address for consistent access.
• Initial login and security setup: Access the web UI or CLI using the management IP. Create administrator accounts with strong passwords, enable TPM-based security features, configure TLS/SSH settings, and establish access controls and logging preferences to align with your security policies.
• Discover and onboard devices: Begin adding devices connected to the 48 serial ports. Use the CM8100’s automation and inventory tools to categorize devices by location, function, and criticality, enabling rapid remediation workflows.
• Define policies and automation: Implement policy-based access controls, remote remediation playbooks, and alerting rules. Integrate with your existing monitoring, ticketing, and incident response processes to streamline operations.
• Test failover scenarios: Validate independent monitoring and out-of-band reachability by simulating network outages or device failures. Confirm that alerts are received and that remediation steps execute as intended.
• Document configuration: Save a secure, versioned copy of all device configurations, inventory mappings, and policies. Maintain an audit trail for compliance and future troubleshooting.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the primary purpose of the Opengear CM8100?

  A: The CM8100 is a high-density console server designed to provide secure, reliable out-of-band management for data centers and enterprise networks. With up to 48 serial ports, it enables centralized access to servers, switches, storage systems, and other gear, improving remediation times and improving uptime during outages.

• Q: What kind of security does the CM8100 offer?

  A: It features enterprise-grade security with a TPM 2.0 module for a hardware-based root of trust, secure boot, and protected firmware updates. It supports encrypted management sessions (SSH/TLS), robust authentication, and detailed audit logging for governance and compliance.

• Q: How does the CM8100 help with data center resilience?

  A: By providing independent monitoring and out-of-band access, administrators can diagnose and remediate device issues even when the primary network is unavailable. This reduces MTTR and keeps critical devices reachable for troubleshooting and recovery.

• Q: How many devices can be managed through the CM8100?

  A: The CM8100 supports up to 48 serial ports, allowing concurrent console access to dozens of servers, switches, routers, storage controllers, and other management targets from a single management appliance.

• Q: Is the CM8100 suitable for large multi-site deployments?

  A: Yes. Its high port density, centralized management, and automation capabilities make it well-suited for large, distributed environments. It can be deployed in data centers, edge locations, and remote sites, providing consistent, secure access wherever devices reside.