The Enterasys Matrix E7 provides intelligent switching at Next-Generation Infrastructure user and server access points, the Matrix E7 is ideal for data centers and high-performance wiring closets. The E7 delivers pinpoint control to critical network entry areas, without the expense and complexity of competitive routed solutions. By embedding Layer 2-4 services on advanced ASICs, the Matrix E7 brings comprehensive quality of service, security and traffic containment to desktops and servers at the network edge. Network managers can now guarantee delivery of high-priority applications, enable service level agreements (SLAs) by provisioning bandwidth, and prevent security breaches by stopping them at their sources. In addition, the Matrix E7 provides the throughput and port densities needed to eliminate bandwidth concerns and serve in the largest networks. The new nTERA backplane design guarantees investment protection by anticipating future developments such as 10 Gigabit Ethernet, while accommodating previous generation switching modules. To ensure "five-nines" availability, the Matrix E7 is designed with no single point of failure, and with standards-based high availability firmware features. The Matrix E7 has been specially designed to support existing SmartSwitch 6000 modules, providing true backward compatibility. Customers have the flexibility to use their current 6000 switch modules in the new chassis and add new, higher-performance Matrix modules at their own pace. With over four million ports installed to date, the SmartSwitch 6000 family has a proven track record of providing reliable network connectivity. The Matrix E7 preserves this connectivity (and respective capital equipment investments), while seamlessly letting customers take advantage of new technologies and capabilities as needed.