Network Management Areas
Besides configuring network devices we also have to manage and monitor our networks. Here is a list with items so you get an idea of what network management is about.
Configuration Management
- Configuration of devices
- Change management (maintain a change log, regular audits)
- Create and update network documentation (network diagrams, device configurations)
- Backup and restore configurations
Monitoring
- Monitor the entire network (utilize network monitoring tools)
- Performance management (collect and analyze performance metrics)
- Uptime and availability monitoring
- Network traffic analysis
Capacity Planning
- Analyze current network capacity
- Plan for scalability based on growth forecasts
- Evaluate and upgrade bandwidth as needed
Security Management
- Create and enforce security policies (firewall rules, access control)
- Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
- Patch management
- Employee security training
Compliance Management
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards
- Record keeping for audits
- Regular compliance assessments
User Management
- Manage user access controls and permissions
- Implement Single Sign-On (SSO) or other authentication solutions
- Monitor user activities for security and compliance
Fault and Incident Management
- Fault detection (automated monitoring, logs)
- Alerting (set up thresholds, use alert systems)
- Troubleshooting (establish a triage process)
- Root cause analysis post-incident
Provisioning
- Provision new devices and network services
- Manage software licenses
- Set up new network connections
Asset and Inventory Management
- Maintain a detailed inventory of network assets
- Lifecycle management (track asset lifecycle from procurement to decommission)
- Conduct regular audits and reconciliation
Miscellaneous
- Disaster recovery planning and testing
- Network policy development and updates
- Vendor management (contracts, SLAs, partnerships)
- Continuous training and skill development for the network team