Network Management Systems (NMS) refer to software applications or platforms used to monitor, control, and manage computer networks. NMS provides administrators and network operators with tools and features to monitor network performance, track network devices, troubleshoot issues, configure network settings, and ensure the overall reliability and efficiency of the network infrastructure.

Here are some key aspects and functionalities of Network Management Systems:

Network Monitoring:

NMS allows continuous monitoring of Network Devices, links, and services to collect real-time data on network performance, availability, and utilization. It provides visibility into network health, traffic patterns, bandwidth usage, and other relevant metrics. This monitoring helps detect anomalies, identify bottlenecks, and ensure optimal network performance.

Fault Management:

NMS includes features for fault detection, fault isolation, and fault resolution. It proactively monitors network devices and services for failures, errors, or abnormal behavior. When a fault is detected, NMS generates alerts, notifications, or alarms to inform administrators, enabling them to take appropriate actions for troubleshooting and resolving the issues.

Configuration Management:

NMS facilitates Centralized Configuration Management for network devices. It allows administrators to configure, deploy, and update network settings, policies, and parameters across multiple devices simultaneously. This ensures consistency, reduces manual errors, and streamlines network configuration processes.

Performance Management:

NMS provides tools for performance monitoring and analysis. It collects and analyzes network performance data to generate reports, graphs, and visualizations. These insights help administrators identify performance bottlenecks, optimize network resources, and plan for capacity upgrades or expansions.

Security Management:

NMS incorporates security management features to monitor and manage network security. It includes functionalities like intrusion detection, log analysis, security event correlation, and access control. NMS helps identify potential security threats, monitor compliance with security policies, and facilitate incident response.

Network Inventory Management:

NMS maintains an inventory of network devices, their configurations, and related attributes. It provides a centralized repository for storing information about network devices, including their hardware specifications, software versions, serial numbers, and other relevant details. This inventory management helps in asset tracking, lifecycle management, and planning for network upgrades or replacements.

Reporting and Analytics:

NMS generates reports and analytics on various network parameters, performance metrics, and operational trends. It allows administrators to analyze historical data, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions regarding network optimization, capacity planning, or troubleshooting. Reports can be customized and scheduled for regular updates.

Network Automation and Orchestration:

Modern NMS platforms often incorporate network automation and orchestration capabilities. They enable automated provisioning, configuration, and management of network resources. Network automation streamlines repetitive tasks, reduces manual effort, and improves efficiency in network operations.

Network Management Systems play a critical role in maintaining the stability, performance, and security of computer networks. They enable administrators to monitor network health, respond to issues promptly, optimize resource utilization, and ensure the smooth operation of network infrastructure. With the increasing complexity of networks, NMS becomes essential for efficient network management and administration.