An data stream protection system and method of use is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of N main transceivers; a plurality of N standby transceivers logically paired with unique N main transceivers; a plurality of N main network adapters logically paired with and operatively in communication with a unique N main transceivers; a standby network adapter; a switching unit connected to each of the standby transceivers and the standby network adapter; and a switching unit controller operatively in communication with the switching unit, the main transceivers, the main network adapters, the standby transceiver, and the standby network adapter. The switching unit controller detects an alarm condition in a main transceiver/network adapter pair and directs a standby transceiver associated with the failed pair to be routed to the standby network adapter through the switching unit. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims.