What are the key components of a robust network management system?

Connectivity underpins virtually every aspect of business and communication. That is why the smooth operation of network infrastructures is not just preferable—it's imperative.

What is a network management system?

A network management system (NMS) is a comprehensive set of tools and applications designed to ensure that a computer network operates smoothly and efficiently. As the backbone of IT operations in many organizations, an NMS plays a critical role in monitoring, maintaining, and optimizing the various components of network infrastructure, including both hardware (such as routers, switches, and servers) and software applications.

Core functions and objectives

The primary goal of a network management system is to maintain high levels of network availability and performance, which it achieves through continuous monitoring and immediate responsiveness to any barrier. An effective NMS helps network administrators by providing tools to manage, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain the network. Specifically, it assists in identifying network failures, managing network resources, ensuring compliance with security protocols, and optimizing overall network performance.

Components and capabilities

A robust network management system incorporates several key components:

• Fault management: This includes the detection, isolation, and resolution of network failures. The system continuously monitors the network and automatically alerts administrators when something happens.
• Configuration management: NMS tools help manage network configuration details for all the network devices. This includes initial configuration and any subsequent changes. The ability to track and control configuration changes is vital for maintaining the stability and security of the network.
• Performance management: These tools monitor various performance metrics such as network traffic, bandwidth utilization, and packet loss. By analyzing this data, administrators can identify potential bottlenecks and performance degradation, allowing for proactive management of network resources.
• Security management: An NMS enhances network security through features that detect unauthorized access attempts, manage network security policies, and integrate with security mechanisms like firewalls and intrusion detection systems. This component is crucial for protecting data integrity.
• Accounting management: This function helps track network usage data, which can be used for both billing and analyzing how network resources are utilized by different departments within an organization. It ensures equitable resource distribution and can aid in planning for network upgrades or expansions.

Network management systems are invaluable tools that enable the monitoring and management of an entire network from a centralized location. These systems provide real-time reporting on the status and usage of network equipment, offering a comprehensive view of the network's health at any given moment. This centralized oversight ensures that network managers can quickly identify and address issues as they arise, maintaining optimal network performance and availability.

These systems are particularly adept at managing network stability during unexpected traffic spikes. By continuously monitoring traffic flow and network performance, network management systems can immediately detect disruptions or anomalies. Once identified, these issues can be swiftly addressed, either through automated responses or by alerting network administrators to intervene, thereby preventing potential downtime or degradation of service.

Remote configuration of network devices is another significant advantage offered by network management systems. Network managers can adjust settings, update policies, and configure devices from anywhere, without the need for direct physical access. This capability is crucial for maintaining network integrity, especially in large-scale or geographically dispersed networks.

These systems can be customized with specific alarm mechanisms tailored to the unique needs of the network. These alarms can be set to trigger notifications to relevant teams or personnel automatically when unexpected events occur. This proactive notification system ensures that everything is running smoothly.

Features you should seek when opting for a network management system

When selecting any service, there are essential features to consider. Fortunately, Network 360, İnnova's user-friendly and easy-to-implement network management system, includes all the necessary features outlined below:

Customizable dashboards

When selecting a network management system, one must consider the availability of customizable dashboards. A robust system should offer dashboards that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each organization. These dashboards should provide comprehensive visibility into critical aspects of the network, including device information, network performance summaries, alarms, topology maps, event logs, and key performance indicators. This level of customization ensures that network managers have immediate access to the most relevant and critical data, enabling effective monitoring and decision-making.

Network discovery module

A network discovery module is essential for any network management system. This feature should support both manual and automated scanning of network equipment data. By defining IP blocks and scheduling scans to run at specified intervals, the system can maintain up-to-date information on the network’s structure and components. Additionally, the capability to exclude specific network equipment or IP modules based on brands, models, or other criteria during scans allows for more focused and efficient network management.

Mapping function

For organizations managing distributed network equipment across multiple locations, a mapping function is crucial. A network management system should include tools that allow network devices to be visually represented on a map. This visualization should not only facilitate easy location and monitoring of network equipment but also enable detailed reporting and queries about the devices. Features might include the ability to view configuration histories, integrate product data, and access other relevant device information directly from the map, enhancing the management of geographically dispersed assets.

Dynamic alarm setups

Dynamic alarm setups are a key feature for effective network management. The system should allow network managers to create and manage alarms that can monitor various network conditions and alert the relevant teams via SMS or email in real-time. These alarms should be capable of tracking specific events or performance metrics, ensuring that any potential issues are promptly identified and addressed. The ability to customize alarm triggers and notifications according to different scenarios is vital for maintaining network integrity and performance.