What is Network Management?

Network management is the procedure of administering, managing, and operating a data network using a network management system. Modern network management systems use software and hardware to constantly collect and analyze data and push out configuration changes for improving performance, reliability, and security.

It involves configuring, monitoring, and possibly reconfiguring components in a network with the goal of providing optimal performance, minimum downtime, proper security, accountability, and flexibility. Network management ensures that network resources are used efficiently and that the network meets the organization's requirements.

Key Features of Network Management

Network Automation

One defining feature of modern network management systems is network automation. This is the procedure of automating the configuring, handling, testing, deploying, and operating of physical and virtual devices within a network. Network service availability increases when everyday network tasks and functions are automated, and repetitive processes are controlled and managed automatically.

Network Administration

Network administration encompasses tracking network resources, including switches, routers, and servers. It also includes performance monitoring, software updates, and ensuring proper resource allocation across the network infrastructure.

Network Operation

This involves smooth network functioning as designed and intended, including close monitoring of activities to quickly and effectively address and fix problems as they occur − preferably even before users are aware of the problem. Network operations teams work around the clock to maintain service availability.

Network Assurance

Network assurance features are often included in modern network management systems to help improve network performance, customer experience, and security. Assurance systems utilize network analytics, application analytics, and policy analytics, as well as AI and ML technologies, to achieve comprehensive network assurance.

Network Provisioning

Network provisioning involves configuring network resources to support specific services, such as voice functions or accommodating additional users. This includes allocating bandwidth, setting up VLANs, and configuring quality of service (QoS) parameters.

Network Maintenance

Network maintenance covers upgrades and fixes to network resources. It consists of both proactive and remediation activities executed in collaboration with network administrators, such as replacing network equipment like routers and switches, updating firmware, and applying security patches.

Network Analytics

Network analytics uses software tools that compare incoming information against preprogrammed operational models and make functional decisions for improving network performance. These tools provide insights into traffic patterns, resource utilization, and potential bottlenecks.

Network Management Models

Conclusion

Network management is essential for maintaining optimal network performance, security, and reliability through systematic monitoring, configuration, and maintenance activities. Modern network management systems leverage automation and analytics to proactively address issues and ensure seamless network operations across diverse organizational environments.