Chapter 4: Rules; Understanding Rules; How To Create A Rule - Network Instruments Matrix User Manual

Understanding rules

Rules modify how and what packets are forwarded from network ports to tool ports. Rules contain filters and
set options like trailers, load balancing, and packet deduplication, but rules only take effect when connected to
ports.
A rule is necessary to establish connections between network ports and tool ports. Without a rule to establish
the connection, no packets entering network ports can be forwarded to tool ports. This convention applies to all
connections between network ports and tool ports regardless of how you design your layouts.
At minimum, a working network path between a network port and tool port can be made by connecting
both ports to an "empty" rule. Empty rules establish a connection yet do not change the behavior of what is
forwarded to tool ports and what ultimately egresses from them.

How to create a rule

You can create a rule to control how connected network ports and tool ports interact. Use the rule to establish
filtering and other options like load balancing, packet deduplication, and more.
Tip!
A new, empty rule is created by connecting a network port to a tool port. This is a shortcut for creating new
rules.
To create a rule:
1. Starting in the dashboard, click Rules.
The rules and filters designer appears, where rules and filters can be created and edited.
2. Ensure the Rules tab is selected.
3. Click New.
The rule opens and is ready to edit.
4. Make your changes.
5. Click Save.
You successfully created a rule. Whenever this rule is used to connect network ports to tool ports, the logic is
applied.
20 | Matrix™ (pub. 25.Apr.2014)

Chapter 4: Rules