Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are CDI's devices FIPS 140-3 Validated?

Yes. CDI is the only Out-of-Band Management (OOBM) provider on the market with full FIPS 140-3 Validation—not just a validated cryptographic module. This ensures the entire CDI solution meets the requirements for FISMA High and Moderate environments. Competing products that rely on FIPS "modules" alone do not meet these federal compliance thresholds.

Q2: Why is FIPS 140-3 important for federal or enterprise customers?

FIPS 140-3 is a mandatory standard for many government systems and a best practice for securing enterprise infrastructure. CDI's full-platform validation ensures end-to-end protection of sensitive data and compliance with NIST standards.

Q3: Does CDI support CAC/PIV authentication?

Yes. CDI offers native CAC/PIV smart card authentication and full TLS 1.3 chain-of-trust, enabling secure, certificate-based access aligned with Zero Trust initiatives and CISA BOD 23-02.

Q1: Do CDI devices include LTE?

Yes. CDI devices include carrier-certified LTE modems with Private APN support, allowing for isolated, secure remote access independent of the production network.

Q2: Can CDI devices operate over public Internet or satellite IP networks?

Absolutely. CDI solutions offer encrypted remote access over public IP, fully protected by FIPS 140-3 validated cryptography. They are also compatible with Starlink and ViaSat satellite IP, making them ideal for remote, mobile, or disconnected environments.

Q3: Can CDI's OOBM solutions function during network outages or cyber incidents?

Yes. CDI devices provide independent access via LTE, serial console, and built-in power control—ensuring full management even when the primary network is down.

Q1: What kinds of infrastructure can CDI manage?

CDI supports routers, switches, firewalls, servers, and any equipment with serial, USB, or Ethernet interfaces—regardless of vendor.

Q2: Do CDI devices include integrated power control?

Yes. CDI uniquely offers built-in power control, allowing you to remotely reboot or cycle devices—no external PDU required.

Q3: Where are CDI products manufactured?

All CDI products are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States, and have been for nearly 50 years. We are committed to secure supply chains and trusted American manufacturing.

Q1: How does CDI compare to Opengear, ZPE, Lantronix, and Perle?

CDI is unmatched in the OOBM space. Only CDI offers:

Other vendors fall short on compliance, integration, and supply chain transparency.

Q1: Where can I buy CDI products?

CDI is available through leading authorized distributors, including Carahsoft, and other federal and enterprise procurement channels. We also support GSA schedules and cooperative purchasing vehicles.

Q2: Is CDI a Cisco Partner?

Yes. CDI is a registered Cisco Partner, enabling seamless integration and compatibility with Cisco networking environments.

Q1: Who relies on CDI?

CDI is trusted by:

Q2: What are CDI's most common use cases?

Common applications include:

Q1: How can I request a demo or pricing?

Visit commdevices.com/contact-us or email info@commdevices.com to schedule a demo or receive a quote tailored to your needs.

Q2: Where do I access product updates and support?

Registered customers can access firmware, technical documentation, and resources via the Customer Portal. Contact our support team to get started.

Q3: What support options are available?

CDI offers U.S.-based support, with options for standard business-hour help, premium 24/7 support, and advanced hardware replacement SLAs.