Configuring sFlow

sFlow is the standard for monitoring high-speed switched and routed networks. sFlow technology is built into network equipment and gives complete visibility into network activity, enabling effective management and control of network resources.

The sFlow monitoring system consists of an sFlow Agent (embedded in a switch or router or in a standalone probe) and a central sFlow Collector. The sFlow Agent uses sampling technology to capture traffic statistics from the device it is monitoring. sFlow datagrams are used to immediately forward the sampled traffic statistics to an sFlow Collector for analysis.

The sFlow Agent uses two forms of sampling: statistical packet-based sampling of switched or routed Packet Flows, and time-based sampling of counters.