Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to provide on demand packet traffic monitoring for packet communications within virtual packet processing environments. Virtual TAPs (test access ports) within virtualization layers for VM (virtual machine) host hardware systems are controlled by external controllers to configure watch filters for VM platforms operating within the virtualization layer based upon trigger events determined within packet flow data and/or based upon other external trigger events. The virtual TAP controller then periodically receives watch filter packet data updates from the virtual TAP and further controls the virtual TAP to configure more detailed focus filters for the VM platforms based upon watch filter trigger events. The virtual TAP controller can further communicate one or more VM action commands (e.g., stop VM, stop application, etc.) to the virtual TAP for application to the VM platforms based upon trigger events associated with this more detailed focus filter data.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to provide on demand packet traffic monitoring for packet communications within virtual packet processing environments. Virtual TAPs (test access ports) within virtualization layers for VM (virtual machine) host hardware systems are controlled by external controllers to configure watch filters for VM platforms operating within the virtualization layer based upon trigger events determined within packet flow data and/or based upon other external trigger events. The virtual TAP controller then periodically receives watch filter packet data updates from the virtual TAP and further controls the virtual TAP to configure more detailed focus filters for the VM platforms based upon watch filter trigger events. The virtual TAP controller can further communicate one or more VM action commands (e.g., stop VM, stop application, etc.) to the virtual TAP for application to the VM platforms based upon trigger events associated with this more detailed focus filter data.

Abstract: A virtual interface is disclosed. A method may include allowing upper layer software to transparently access the capabilities of a network device via a virtual interface as if the network device were in a computing device in which the upper layer software is resident. A communication channel may be established with a computing device. A virtual interface to a network device in the computing device is created. Incoming data units directed to the network device are received via the communication channel, and are made available via the virtual interface. Outgoing data units directed to the virtual interface may be forwarded to the network device via the communication channel. The methods may be implemented on computing devices that include network cards, including computers and/or network testing systems.