Network Performance Monitoring and Diagnostics (NPMD) tools, according to the definition of Gartner Inc. allow “IT operations to understand the performance of the application, network, and infrastructure components via network instrumentation, including insight into the quality of the end-user experience”.
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Other than reviewing, monitoring the infrastructure and network traffic, NPMD tools can also help IT departments with analysis of the underlying network components, to support improvements and optimization of the network. These tools can also provide information about the aspects of the network that can be subject to degradation, or other possible errors.
In the following sections, we have highlighted some of the key benefits of network monitoring and diagnostics (NPMD) tools.
Better network visibility
To have a complete understanding of the whole network, it is essential to have a clear picture of all the system components. Without the ability to monitor traffic, devices, and metrics associated with the network, operators are merely groping in the dark. Having comprehensive visibility on the network allows IT personnel to pinpoint any lurking flaws in the system.
Lower incidence of security breaches
Even though NPMDs are generally designed to track issues associated with the network, and its components, they can also be useful in detecting possible security threats.
By reviewing network activities, these tools can identify suspicious data traffic within the system.
Decreased network downtime
Although there is no tool that can guarantee flawless operation, a good monitoring solution can definitely decrease the likelihood of experiencing an unexpected network disruption.
With continuous monitoring and diagnostics of the network and devices, NPMDs can signal upcoming issues, which allows proactive error correction and reduces downtime duration.
Reporting support
Clients can derive important network performance data from the past, and generate custom reports that allow them to identify patterns in the operation of the infrastructure.
These reports can be used to identify areas that can be optimized, and schedule further necessary actions to address any possible future system disruptions.
End-user experience
While having data available about the functioning of the network is important, systems are only as good as clients perceive them to be. Without the ability to observe systems and applications from the end-user point of view, companies have a disadvantage against their competitors.
NPMDs can give service providers insights into the user experience, which enables them to fine-tune services to meet their clients’ needs.
Because at the end of the day, user experience is the thing that really matters.
What is to come for NPMD tools?
Since the specific requirements of each enterprise can vary significantly, it is essential for companies to have a clear understanding of their network monitoring needs, and choose a solution that fits them the best.
It is quite promising that the NPMD industry in general is moving towards consolidation and integration. Consolidated tools are easier to use, need less time for training, and can significantly lower costs. Moreover, in the case of many of these solutions, data can be collected and analyzed from many sources. This provides a more comprehensive understanding of the network, as a whole system.
The use of NPMDs is expected to grow in significance for the daily operations of value-added service providers (VARs), and managed service providers (MSPs). Through the use of consolidated NPMD tools, they will be able to serve customers better, with less complexity, and lower costs.
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