Network Management Systems - 7 : Why use an NMS ?

Summary

A network management system (NMS) is crucial for managing distributed networks, which often span large areas and include numerous devices. NMS enables centralized management regardless of equipment location, overcoming challenges like direct access to individual devices. Using the SNMP protocol, NMS applications can reach network devices anywhere via an IP connection. Additionally, NMS enhances productivity, increases network uptime, and reduces operating costs, making it essential for medium to large-sized companies to implement a network management system for efficient remote management.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Networks are distributed across large areas, making local management difficult.
• 🏢 Networks can span across campuses, countries, or even the entire world.
• 🔧 Managing all devices locally is nearly impossible due to the wide distribution.
• 📡 Network management systems (NMS) enable effective management of devices from any location.
• 🔗 Direct access to network devices is challenging, especially on large networks.
• 📶 Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) enhances NMS usefulness with standards-based protocols.
• 🌍 SNMP allows management of network devices globally via an IP connection.
• 💼 Remote management via NMS boosts productivity and efficiency.
• 📈 Using NMS improves network uptime rates, ensuring smoother operations.
• 💰 NMS reduces overall network operating costs, making it essential for medium to large companies.

Q & A

Why is it challenging to manage networks locally?

Networks can have thousands of devices spread over large distances, making it nearly impossible to manage all devices locally. A network management system (NMS) allows for centralized control of distributed devices.

How does a network management system (NMS) help manage widely distributed networks?

An NMS allows effective management of devices across large distances, whether it's a campus network, a country-wide network, or even a global one, by providing centralized access and control.

Why is direct access to network devices often difficult?

With many devices spread across a network, trying to directly connect to each one is close to impossible due to the vast number of devices and the physical distances involved.

What is SNMP, and how does it make network management systems more useful?

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is a standards-based protocol that allows NMS to reach any network device worldwide via an IP connection, facilitating remote monitoring and management.

How do remote management applications increase productivity?

Remote management applications allow network administrators to manage devices without needing to be physically present, leading to faster troubleshooting, reduced downtime, and improved overall productivity.

What impact do network management systems have on network uptime rates?

NMS applications improve network uptime rates by providing tools to monitor, diagnose, and address network issues quickly and efficiently, reducing downtime.

How can using NMS lower network operating costs?

By enabling remote management, automating tasks, and reducing the need for physical intervention, NMS can significantly lower labor and operational costs associated with network management.

Why is it essential for medium to large-sized companies to use network management systems?

Given the size and complexity of their networks, medium to large-sized companies benefit from NMS by improving productivity, reducing operating costs, and ensuring high network uptime, making it almost a necessity.

What is the role of NMS in managing geographically diverse networks?

NMS allows centralized monitoring and management of devices regardless of their physical location, simplifying the oversight of geographically diverse networks.

How does a network management system contribute to better network reliability?

NMS provides proactive monitoring, automated alerts, and rapid troubleshooting capabilities, all of which contribute to better network reliability and reduced likelihood of system failures.