CrossLock VPN

Using Multiple IP Networks

CrossLock allows for the use of multiple IP networks in Bonding mode. Each network connection gets added to the CrossLock layer, doubling or tripling the available bandwidth. This is an especially powerful tool to use when the network capacity is unknown, like in the field.

If you have multiple networks that are assumed good and have plenty of unmetered bandwidth, CrossLock can be set for Redundancy mode, delivering the entire stream to each network. This can result in more of a guarantee of a seamless failover if one network should fail completely.

Adaptive Management Engine

What’s more important than how many modems a unit can use is how effectively it can monitor each network in real-time and dynamically adjust data depending on each network’s performance. CrossLock features an adaptive management engine that carefully tracks the performance of each network link and applies the most appropriate tools for current conditions. 

CrossLock will calculate the highest quality and lowest delay combination of available networks to achieve the desired target rate, and it will even temporarily quarantine any adapters not contributing to those targets so as to not detract from performance. This is done seamlessly, meaning you won’t hear any drops in the audio if data has to be re-distributed. And it does this intelligently, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting settings yourself.

Now Included, Free to Upgrade

CrossLock is free, and all of our current IP codecs now ship with CrossLock VPN Technology included. This includes our LiveShot video codec line (for which it was originally created) in addition to our ACCESS and BRIC-Link audio codecs. 

Starting with firmware 4.0, we added CrossLock to our IP audio codecs (ACCESS/BRIC-Link) and customers with units that shipped prior to this version can update their unit remotely. To access the most current version of firmware, visit the Support page and choose your IP audio codec model.

Contact Comrex tech support during business hours if assistance is required.

HotSwap for Backup

As an enhancement to our CrossLock reliability layer, HotSwap mode allows you to designate a backup network only to be engaged when the primary network fails with seamless fallback once it’s been restored.

Available for ACCESS and BRIC-Link codecs running firmware 4.3 or higher. 

Learn more about HotSwap.

Works with Switchboard

While CrossLock is a powerful tool for STL applications, we strongly recommend that users configure CrossLock manually for the most stable connections that require long-term reliability. For short-term connections (i.e.: outside broadcasts, sport remotes, talk shows), Switchboard will automatically enable CrossLock connections with other CrossLock-capable Comrex codecs.

Learn more about Switchboard.