NETWORK MANAGEMENT
Network management involves monitoring, maintaining, and optimizing a computer network to
ensure smooth and secure communication between devices. It includes various tasks like
configuring hardware, troubleshooting issues, ensuring security, and optimizing performance.
KEY ASPECTS OF NETWORK MANAGEMENT
1. Network Monitoring
Uses tools to track network performance, uptime, and bandwidth usage.
Detects issues like slow speeds, packet loss, or unauthorized access.
Popular tools: Nagios, SolarWinds, PRTG, Wireshark
2. Configuration Management
Managing routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices.
Ensuring proper IP addressing, VLANs, and subnetting.
Keeping backups of network configurations for recovery.
3. Performance Optimization
Load balancing to distribute traffic efficiently.
Reducing latency with proper routing and Quality of Service (QoS).
Upgrading outdated hardware and optimizing bandwidth usage.
4. Security Management
Setting up firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems.
Implementing strong encryption (WPA3, SSL, TLS) for data security.
Regularly updating firmware and applying security patches.
Monitoring for cyber threats and preventing unauthorized access.
5. Fault Management & Troubleshooting
Detecting and fixing network issues proactively.
Using logs and alerts to identify network failures.
Running diagnostics like ping, traceroute, nslookup for troubleshooting.
6. Automation & Remote Management
Using AI and automation tools to manage network tasks.
Remote access via SSH, Telnet, or cloud-based network management platforms.
BEST PRACTICES FOR EFFECTIVE NETWORK MANAGEMENT
Use Network Monitoring Tools – Real-time insights into network health.
Segment Networks (VLANs) – Enhances security and performance.
Set Up Regular Backups – Ensure fast recovery from failures.
Implement Strong Access Controls – Use firewalls, MFA, and access policies.
Regularly Update Firmware & Security Patches – Prevent vulnerabilities.
Document Network Infrastructure – Keep records of configurations and changes.
Plan for Scalability – Ensure the network can grow with your needs.
NETWORK MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES & TOOLS
NETWORK MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Network administrators and IT teams oversee various tasks to ensure smooth network operations.
Their key responsibilities include:
1. Network Monitoring & Performance Optimization
Monitor network traffic, bandwidth, and uptime.
Identify and resolve bottlenecks or slow connections.
Implement Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing critical applications.
2. Configuration & Maintenance
Set up routers, switches, firewalls, and servers.
Manage IP addressing, VLANs, and DNS settings.
Ensure regular firmware and software updates.
3. Security Management
Implement firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems (IDS/IPS).
Prevent unauthorized access with strong authentication & encryption (WPA3, TLS).
Monitor for cyber threats and prevent DDoS attacks.
4. Troubleshooting & Fault Management
Identify, diagnose, and resolve network issues quickly.
Use diagnostic commands (ping, traceroute, nslookup) for testing connectivity.
Set up automated alerts for outages or failures.
5. Network Automation & Remote Management
Automate repetitive tasks like configuration backups & updates.
Use remote access tools (SSH, cloud-based monitoring) to manage networks from
anywhere.
Implement AI-driven self-healing networks to reduce manual intervention.
NETWORK MANAGEMENT TOOLS
Here are the best tools for monitoring, security and troubleshooting:
1. Network Monitoring Tools
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) – Real-time network performance
tracking.
Nagios – Open-source network monitoring for fault detection.
PRTG Network Monitor – Monitors bandwidth, uptime, and network traffic.
Zabbix – Enterprise-level monitoring for large networks.
2. Security & Firewall Tools
Wireshark – Packet analyzer for deep network inspection.
pfSense – Open-source firewall & router for security management.
Snort – Intrusion Detection System (IDS) for network security.
3. Troubleshooting & Diagnostic Tools
Ping & Traceroute – Basic tools for network connectivity checks.
Nslookup / Dig – DNS troubleshooting.
NetFlow Analyzer – Traffic analysis and bandwidth monitoring.
4. Automation & Remote Management
Ansible – Automates network configurations and updates.
Cisco DNA Center – AI-driven network automation and analytics.
ManageEngine OpManager – Network automation and fault resolution.