Networks are the backbone of digital businesses in various industry sectors. Computer networks connect to various devices, servers, and services throughout the company. Employees need this network to work and collaborate smoothly, while customers need it for seamless service. Therefore, network monitoring is required to maintain good performance.
Technology today is very dynamic and this is reflected in computer networks. It is essential to have a network monitoring system to navigate all the tasks on the network so that they work properly. To build a strong monitoring system, in this article we will discuss effective network monitoring strategies for digital businesses in 2024.
1. Determine the Basis of Network Behavior
The starting point of implementing a network monitoring system is to establish the basis for network behavior. Make sure to have a document that highlights what normal network behavior looks like, the range of acceptable values for all monitored parameters, and what devices are connected. This stage also details how the network interacts with devices and services outside the network.
The information gained from this baseline of network behavior creates the foundation on which all decision-making regarding the design of the monitoring system is built. It is easy to be tempted to skip this initial stage, assuming that we are already very familiar with our company’s network. However, if the foundations are shaky, then the network will not be smooth.
2. Ensure High Availability of Monitoring System
Often times, the network monitoring tool itself is hosted on the same network that is being monitored. This means that if the network drops or slows down significantly, the network monitor will also slow down, even shut down. If this happens, data analysis will be almost impossible.
Therefore, we must first ensure that the network monitoring tool used has high availability and a failover option. The easiest and least expensive way is to replicate and store all monitor data in an independent data center. A failover option can trigger an automatic installation for monitoring with another network. The system can then be configured to retrieve info from this backup in an emergency.
3. Beware of Multiple Warnings
In networking there is something called a daisy chain topology, which is a layout where components are connected in series, like the petals of a daisy. In large companies, the component of this daisy chain topology that is most often used is the switch. If a switch fails, it can trigger several alerts that flow to each switch in the chain. If this happens, then alerts will occur in bunches.
These alerts will occur if they are not placed in properly analyzed and strategic places. Too many alerts can cause fatigue and will be ignored instead of being handled as they should be. Important operations can be disrupted.
4. Ensure Configuration Management is Linked to Monitoring
Various devices are involved in maintaining the flow of data through the network. A router has different configuration parameters compared to a switch. Using the right configuration is essential for a stable and secure network. Many stick to the default configuration that comes with the device, but this is not advisable as the company’s requirements may not match the default.
This is where configuration management comes in to customize individual values without significantly impacting the network. When configuration management tools are connected with monitoring tools, admins can control users and devices with complete network visibility. This allows for fewer errors to occur and allows for changes to be made on a smaller scale.
Configuration management will also automate new components into the network while serving as a baseline. With configuration management, the network map will also be kept up to date in network monitoring activities.
5. Collect Data from Multiple Network Devices to Get the Full Picture
A complete picture of network conditions is depicted by a combination of information surveyed from various devices connected to it. Each data point should be analyzed on a presumptive basis to see what insights can be gained from them.
Goals should be set at the beginning of the network monitoring design exercise, just like any other major activity. These goals can then be distilled down to the insights required to meet each of those goals. These insights can then be traced back to see where they came from. Monitoring should also be customized to filter out unnecessary interference.
6. Configure and Maintain a Robust Dashboard
Network monitoring relies on one thing, a dashboard that provides complete visibility of every aspect of the network. Admins should be able to recognize abnormal behavior with just a glance at the dashboard. Visualization is important for any monitoring activity. While most monitoring tools automatically create network maps, there should be provisions for adding more specific inputs. Dashboards also need to be customized based on the location and role of the person using it.
The ideal way to design a dashboard is to give weight to the most important components while displaying the rest as part of the incident flow at a glance. Unorganized dashboards will only become unwieldy as the network grows and slow down analysis.
7. Document the Escalation Process
Make sure that every process is documented. It details when escalation should take place, what process it should go through, and who needs to be involved at each level. Any network issues seen on the dashboard will be recorded and go through the proper resolution channels. Especially for large companies, escalation documentation is necessary, but medium and small companies will also need it.
8. Create Reports at Each Layer of the Network
In general, networks follow 4 layers of TCP/IP and some still use an open system interconnection model of 7 layers. Each layer is tied to its own function, namely application, transportation, internet, and network access. Each of these layers must be reported to make the monitoring process smoother.
Nowadays, network monitoring is a necessity in every company network so that its performance remains smooth, employees’ work remains smooth and customers continue to get seamless service. Be sure to use a reputable tool like Netmonk to get the best monitoring services. Comes with one of its products, Netmonk Prime, which provides a network monitoring module to acquire data from network devices. The company’s IT team can carry out operational activities better and safer. Want to try Netmonk Prime for free? Just visit Netmonk right now!
