Static network models provide valuable information about network topology. This is useful for diagrams, provisioning, and troubleshooting. Dynamic models simulate network functionality and provide a means for capacity planning, failure analysis, other predictive analysis, and network design activities.
Network modeling systems seldom produce a perfectly useful model out-of-the-box. They require some manipulation and configuration to correctly bring in the network topology. The topology must then be validated and ensure that the import process accurately and consistently builds a network model. The topology isn’t very useful without metric data to simulate network traffic. The interfaces to collect this data must be configured and the data validated. Most of this can be automated once it’s developed.
The model itself doesn’t do anything – it’s just a tool. Once the baseline network model is developed we must put it to work to produce the desired outputs – network discrepancy reports, design actions, failure analysis, cause/effect scenarios, and a myriad of other functions not easily achieved by other means. The specific outputs should have been defined prior to purchasing network modeling systems. The outputs of these processes become deliverables to other departments in your organization – engineering, operations, and business units will all benefit from network modeling products. If implemented correctly, a comprehensive network modeling program will provide a valuable ROI to your organization. If not – it will become a sinkhole you’re throwing money into.
Implementing a modeling program requires expertise in network modeling, engineering, and business process improvement. NPI provides services to develop a comprehensive network modeling program, implement it, and train your staff to use the outputs from these tools to reduce your overall IT expenses. NPI has extensive experience with Riverbed® and WANDL® modeling systems. Contact us to discuss your particular needs.
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