Abstract: A communications network tap with a link fault detector, comprises a first terminal and a second terminal adapted to couple the tap in-line in the network and communicate data packets with network devices. A tap circuit is coupled to the first terminal and second terminal and configured to provide data packets to a monitor terminal. A link fault circuit coupled to the first terminal and second terminal and when a failure is detected in the first terminal, to cause a failure on the second terminal. Advantages of the invention include ensuring the integrity of the network by alerting network devices of fault conditions.