Network Management Systems

Network Management Systems

Abstract

Network Management Systems are a set of devices and software assimilated to provide a network administrator the tools necessary to monitor, analyze, and maintain the health of a network.

Networks require constant monitoring in order to maintain availability and maximize efficiency. There are a multitude of Network Management Systems ( NMS ) available including high end ones such as HP OpenView, free Network Management Systems, and open source Network Management Systems. “Choosing a network management system hinges not only on price and user preference, but functionality as well.” HP OpenView is one of the most widely used Network Management Systems, offers a number of add-ons, and is extremely powerful through the use of HP OpenView Agent ( Monitoring ) through Smart Plug Ins ( SPI’s ) that support Oracle, PeopleSoft, and other popularly used software, a Trouble Ticket System, a Notification System, and can be easily incorporated with other management tools.

It is extremely important for an organization to utilize a Network Monitoring System ( NMS ) that is cost effective, yet meets the required needs. HP OpenView is designed to address the needs of large networks and offers the flexibility through the number of add-ons available to address any required need. Because HP OpenView is geared towards larger networks it is considered one of the more robust Network Management Systems available, and also offers the flexibility to work with the Windows and Unix operating systems.

The foundation behind HP OpenView is Network Node Manager, which provides the ability to monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain network nodes ( See Figure 1 Below ). In essence, by using HP OpenView, a network administrator has the ability to quickly identify potential network troubles prior to the trouble causing an outage or becoming a critical issue.

HP OpenView agent collects data, summarizes, and detects alarm conditions throughout the...