How does the PorchLight work technically?
The PorchLight is a Proxy Server we place between the Access Servers of the ISP and the Router. The PorchLight modifies the users’ response HTTP packets in order to serve subscribers content in the form of customer service messages or advertisement. We use the PorchLight in combination with a Layer 4 (L4) switch (Foundry). The L4 switch works at a couple of levels. L2 provides port mirroring for compiling reports useful to the ISP. L4 provides Transparent Cache Switching (TCS) and L7 provides URL switching.
What OS do you use?
We have developed on the .NET platform, are a Microsoft Certified Partner and are one of the first companies to develop on the .NET platform. Our software resides on our own proprietary server and to get all of the functionality of our system we require a L4 switch with Transparent Cache Switching and URL switching (better for features, not using all MS services – no open ports)
What is the capacity of the PorchLight?
A single PorchLight can handle 50,000 connected subscribers concurrently. This capacity can be increased by adding more PorchLights
What would happen if the PorchLight cannot handle the amount of traffic that goes through it?
The L4 switch will be configured to direct a maximum of 1,200 connections to the PorchLight. If the traffic reaches the limit, the L4 switch will bypass (doesn’t drop) the traffic directly to the Internet.
How does the pop-up blocking software work with the PorchLight?
Most pop-up blockers are based on the Java Script language and are effective in blocking the pop-up and pop under ads. The PorchLight offers the interstitial delivery option which provides a way to deliver content even if a pop-up blocker is used.
What happens if the PorchLight goes down?
The Front Porch solution is a combination of a L4 switch and PorchLight(s). The L4 switch conducts frequent health checks including: link, ICMP, TCP port checks, and TCP connection tracking. In case of failure, the L4 switch will automatically bypasses the PorchLight by sending the traffic directly to the Internet. (7 different health checks)
Security
What are the security features of the PorchLight?
Each PorchLight has a Local Security Policy. Windows Updates automatically run once a week to make sure the latest patches are in place. The PorchLight has only 3 open ports. All communications between the PorchLight and its management center are secure and encrypted via VPN Tunnel using a Security Certificate.
Latency
Does the PorchLight cause latency noticeable to subscribers?
Latency is negligible (around 60-100ms). Latency would not be noticeable by the subscriber. Only port 80 traffic is touched. OC-3 can be an issue.