The network infrastructure is more modern than ever now. There are several components
running in the same digital ecosystem. And to make sure that all the components operate
efficiently – various management tools are needed. More specifically, integration with other tools.
This integration actually provides more visibility and control over the network environment.
Integration improves troubleshooting. But there’s a lot more that happens behind. As per Slurp’it
this blog will help you check out the advantages of integrating network inventory with other
tools:
What are the main challenges in network management?
Since the network infrastructure is getting more complex each passing day, the toll is now on the
IT teams. No matter what number of devices, applications, and services within a network
increases, everything has to be taken care of. If there is no visibility and control, troubleshooting
any kind of problems, big or small, gets complicated.
And let’s not forget how cloud based services are increasing. With IoT by side and remote work
environments – network management gets complicated much. Since nature is distributed here,
and there are more third party providers, maintaining a clear view of network infrastructure
again gets quite daunting.
But, what is network inventory?
In simpler words, when a business keeps a comprehensive record of all hardware and software
components of their network, that’s network inventory. The record can be of both physical
devices like routers, switches, servers or of virtual components and cloud services.
When it is Accurate, IT teams can easily maintain up-to-date information on device details.
Including configurations and software versions. With this data, they can easily identify and
address any issues quickly. They can quickly plan for future upgrades, and even meet all the
regulatory standards.
But remember, for your network inventory to be effective enough, you’ll continuously have to
monitor. This includes tracking the addition, removal, or modification of network components. As
per Slurp’it a business should monitor each asset’s lifecycle and maintenance status – a must
thing to do!
What is the importance of accurate network inventory management?
There are many. But here the major importance of maintaining an accurate network a business
must look into, before investing:
● Since the understanding of network topology is much clear and interdependencies – IT
teams can quickly address any issues
● With a well-maintained inventory, organisations can track the age, condition, and
maintenance status of all their devices. This actually helps with proactive planning of
hardware and software upgrades.
● Many industries require strict adherence to compliance and regulatory standards. When
the network inventory is done the right way, IT teams can easily stay aligned to all the
protocols.
Now, let’s get into the benefits
When a business integrates the inventory with all the other management tools, they
undoubtedly benefit a lot. Some of them being:
- Increased visibility
- Better resource allocation
- Since the synchronisation is done automatically, the data stays accurate
- When integrated with configuration management tools, even troubleshooting gets a lot easier
- It also allows businesses to quickly identify affected devices and resolve problems efficiently.
Some popular tools for network inventory management
The complete process is somehow tedious. But a lot of tools are available to support the same,
like:
- Network Documentation Software (NDS): Tools like SolarWinds Network Topology
Mapper and Spiceworks Network Inventory provide detailed asset information. These
tools makes it easier to monitor network infrastructure. - Network Management Systems (NMS): Systems like Nagios and Zabbix offer a clear
view of the network. These tools combine inventory data with performance monitoring
and fault management. - IT Asset Management (ITAM): Asset management platforms helps with integrating its
data with broader IT asset management. These tools provide a centralised repository of
all IT resources.
How to integrate it with monitoring tools?
As mentioned previously, one best way to make the most out of it, is to integrate the system with
all the performance monitoring tools that are being used. Once the inventory data is aligned with
real-time performance metrics, IT teams get better insights into the health of the network.
For example, when a performance issue occurs, IT teams can reference the inventory to
pinpoint the specific devices involved. They can check out their configurations, and any
dependencies. Then they can troubleshoot and resolve the issues faster.
Additionally, this integration even helps with proactive maintenance. Businesses can do capacity
planning to make sure the network stays efficient enough.
How to integrate it with configuration management tools?
This integration helps with streamlining network management. Businesses get a centralised
repository of device configurations. Hence they can easily track device settings, firmware
versions, and software deployments.
Change management processes also get a lot easier with configuration management tools. As
per Slurp’it by automating the deployment and verification of configuration changes,
organisations can reduce human error. They can stay consistent across the network.
How to integrate it with ticketing systems?
Lastly, comes integration with ticketing systems. When any issue is reported, the ticketing
system can automatically reference network inventory data. This data will provide relevant
device and configuration information. And all of this actually speeds up the problem-solving
process and actually improves incident resolution as per Slurp’it.
Furthermore, this integration ensures that incident reports are more accurate. There is a
reduced risk of incomplete or incorrect information.
Now that you have understood how integration can help businesses do better, what are you
waiting for? This is your time to invest in integrated tools. Take your step in the right direction
now! For more information contact us at Slurp’it!
