Network monitoring is an often used IT term. Network monitoring refers to the practice of supervising the operation of a computer network using specialized management software tools. Network monitoring systems are used to ensure the availability and overall performance of computers (hosts) and network services. They let admins monitor access, routers, slow or failed components, firewalls, core switches, client systems, and server performance among other network data. Network monitoring systems are typically used in large-scale IT and university networks.
Key Features in Network Monitoring
The network monitoring system is capable of detecting and reporting device or connection failures. It usually measures host CPU usage, network link bandwidth usage , and other aspects of operation. Often sends messages – sometimes called watchdog messages – over the network to individual hosts to verify that the message is responsive to requests. When a failure, unacceptably slow response or other unexpected behavior is detected, the system sends an additional message called an alert to a designated location such as a management server, email address or phone number to notify the system administrator.
Network Monitoring Software Tool
The ping program is one example of a basic network monitoring program. Ping is software available on most computers that sends Internet Protocol (IP) test messages between two hosts. Anyone on the network can run a basic ping test to verify the connection between two computers is working and also to measure the current connection performance.
Although ping is useful in some situations, some networks require more sophisticated monitoring systems in the form of software programs designed for use by professional administrators of large computer networks. Examples of this software package are the HP BTO and LANDesk.
One type of network monitoring system is specifically designed to monitor web server availability. For large enterprises using a worldwide pool of web servers, this system helps detect problems quickly in any location. Website monitoring services available on the Internet include Monitis.
Simple Network Management Protocol
Simple Network Management Protocol is a popular management protocol that includes network monitoring software. SNMP is the most widely used network monitoring and management protocol. It includes:
- The device on the network that is being monitored
- Agent software on monitored devices
- A network management system (NMS), which is a toolset on servers that monitors each device on the network and communicates information about those devices to IT administrators.
Administrators can use the SNMP monitor and manage aspects of their network by:
- Gather information about how much bandwidth is being used on the network
- Actively polls network devices for status requests at specified intervals
- Notifies admin via text message of device failure
- Gather error reports, which can be used to troubleshoot problems
- Send a warning email when the server reaches a specified low disk space level
