Fcaps: a Method to Manage Networks

FCAPS is a framework and model for network management. The acronym FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance, and security) is the ISO Telecommunications Management Network model for network management. It provides a functional approach that segments management areas into discrete categories. The FCAPS model is based on five levels of management; the fault-management level (F), the configuration level (C), the accounting level (A), the performance level (P), and the security level (S). Each level allows the network manager or management framework to address issues that pertain to that particular level with each level considered to ensure that no area is overlooked (NetworkWorld).

Fault Management: At the F level, network problems are found and corrected.

A fault management system will identify that a problem has occurred in the network. It will provide an alarm of some type to a manager or administrator, and will offer information as to the location and description of the fault. As issues are discovered, identified, and resolved, the network is kept operational, and downtime is minimized. The basic tasks or fault management are (Solarwinds):

Configuration

Management Tasks

Resource initialization

Network provisioning

Auto-discovery

Backup and restore

Resource shut down

Change management

Pre-provisioning

Inventory/asset management

Copy configuration

Remote configuration

Automated software distribution

Job initiation, tracking, and execution

Configuration Management: At the C level, network hardware and programming changes, including the addition of new equipment and programs, modification of existing systems, and removal of obsolete systems and programs, are coordinated. An inventory of equipment and programs is kept and updated regularly. Effective configuration management ensures a consistent, repeatable, and auditable configuration on all devices that make up the network.

Accounting Management: The A level is devoted to...