Opengear CM8100 Console Server

The CM8100 Console Manager is Opengear’s latest evolution in data center and enterprise network console management. Building on 18 years of Opengear product leadership, the CM8100 delivers a scalable, secure, and resilient solution for out-of-band management of critical devices. With up to 48 serial ports, enterprise-grade security powered by a TPM 2.0 module, and independent monitoring designed to keep systems reachable even in challenging conditions, the CM8100 is built to simplify remote access, accelerate incident response, and reduce mean time to repair across distributed environments. This console server is engineered for modern data centers, branch offices, and service-provider networks where secure remote control, reliable uptime, and centralized orchestration are essential. From routine maintenance to automated remediation, the CM8100 enables administrators to manage, monitor, and protect complex infrastructure from a single, unified platform.

• Up to 48 serial ports for scalable, centralized device management across racks, sites, and distributed networks.
• Enterprise-grade security with a TPM 2.0 module, ensuring trusted boot, secure key storage, and hardened authentication for sensitive management operations.
• Independent monitoring capabilities designed to detect faults, trigger alerts, and support automated remediation to maximize uptime and minimize service disruption.
• Out-of-band management that keeps devices reachable during network outages or primary-path failures, enabling rapid recovery and consistent access to critical infrastructure.
• Proven Opengear lineage and a focus on reliability, automation, and secure remote access for data centers and enterprise networks seeking scalable, future-proof console management.

Technical Details of Opengear CM8100 Console Server

• Serial port capacity: up to 48 individual ports for diverse device connectivity and streamlined out-of-band management across large deployments.
• Security: integrated TPM 2.0 module provides secure cryptographic operations, platform integrity, and robust authentication for console access.
• Monitoring: independent monitoring capabilities deliver continuous visibility into device health, environmental conditions, and connectivity status to support proactive management.
• Management scope: designed for data centers and enterprise networks, enabling centralized control, rapid fault isolation, and consistent policy enforcement across multi-site environments.
• Reliability features: built to support mission-critical operations with secure remote access, fault-tolerant workflows, and scalable architecture that grows with your infrastructure.
• Compatibility and ecosystems: integrates with Opengear’s management platform and existing ITSM and automation workflows to streamline provisioning, remediation, and incident response.

How to Install Opengear CM8100 Console Server

• Plan your deployment by identifying the primary management network and any out-of-band paths that will carry console traffic to devices across racks and sites.
• Install the CM8100 in an appropriate data-center rack or installation location, ensuring proper mounting, ventilation, and access to power and network connections.
• Connect your target devices to the 48 serial ports on the CM8100, mapping each port to the device it will manage and documenting port assignments for future reference.
• Provide power to the unit and connect it to the management network or dedicated control network. Establish a secure initial network configuration and user access controls aligned with your security policies.
• Enable TPM 2.0 integration and configure authentication methods (such as certificate-based or multi-factor authentication) to secure console access and server management.
• Access the CM8100’s management interface (CLI or web UI) to set up monitoring, alerting rules, and remote access policies. Define device groups, roles, and automation workflows as needed.
• Register the CM8100 with your centralized management platform or Opengear management console, import device inventories, and begin simulating connection tests to verify reliable reachability to connected serial devices.
• Validate out-of-band access paths by performing controlled fault simulations or maintenance scenarios to confirm automated remediation and alerting behaviors.
• Document all configuration details, port mappings, and security settings to support ongoing operations, audits, and change-control processes.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Opengear CM8100 Console Server?

  A: The CM8100 is Opengear’s flagship console manager designed to securely manage up to 48 serial ports across data centers and enterprise networks. It combines out-of-band access, independent monitoring, and TPM 2.0 security to provide reliable remote management for critical devices.

• Q: How many serial ports does the CM8100 support?

  A: It supports up to 48 serial ports, enabling broad coverage for rack devices, network gear, and embedded equipment across multiple sites from a single appliance.

• Q: What security features does the CM8100 include?

  A: The CM8100 includes an enterprise-grade TPM 2.0 module for secure cryptographic operations, trusted platform integrity, and strong authentication to protect console access and management functions.

• Q: Can CM8100 help with uptime and incident response?

  A: Yes. With independent monitoring and out-of-band access, the CM8100 enables proactive fault detection, rapid remediation, and access to devices even when the primary network is unavailable. This supports faster incident resolution and reduced mean time to repair.

• Q: Is the CM8100 suitable for both data centers and distributed sites?

  A: Absolutely. The CM8100 is designed for centralized management across data centers, campuses, and remote/branch locations, helping unify console management, improve consistency, and simplify automation workflows.

• Q: How do I get started with installation?

  A: Begin by provisioning the CM8100 in a designated rack or enclosure, connect the serial devices, secure power and network paths, enable TPM 2.0-based authentication, configure access policies, and integrate with your management platform for monitoring and automation.