NetBrain - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
NetBrain - Product Overview
Overview of NetBrain
NetBrain is a pioneering company in the network automation and troubleshooting sector, founded in 2004. Here’s a brief overview of their product and its key aspects:
Primary Function
NetBrain’s primary function is to automate network troubleshooting, change management, and assessments. Their platform focuses on transforming complex operational processes into efficient workflows, leveraging a combination of AI and automation. This automation helps organizations boost operational efficiency, reduce Mean Time To Repair (MTTR), and mitigate risks associated with network management.
Target Audience
The target audience for NetBrain’s products includes network architects, operators, and engineers within large enterprises and managed services providers. Specifically, they cater to senior-level network engineers at large enterprises who are responsible for managing and maintaining complex network infrastructures.
Key Features
- No-Code Automation: NetBrain offers a no-code platform that allows network engineers to create automated assessments and diagnostic procedures without needing traditional scripting or programming languages.
- Intent-Based Automation: The platform operates on an intent-based model, focusing on whether networking goals are being met rather than just the functionality of individual network devices. This approach helps in preventing up to 50% of network problems before they impact production.
- Dynamic Maps: Provides real-time network topology and live traffic paths, enabling continuous network assessment and visualization.
- Automation Library: Centralizes and digitizes an organization’s expert knowledge, allowing teams to share and expand automated network assessments across multi-vendor networks.
- Problem Diagnosis Automation System (PDAS): This tool automates network troubleshooting by matching current issues to previously resolved ones and populating findings directly into IT service management tickets. It can resolve up to 95% of all network service tickets.
- Integration with ITSM Systems: NetBrain integrates with major IT Service Management (ITSM) systems, enabling seamless automation of key NetOps workflows like incident response, troubleshooting, and change management.
Conclusion
Overall, NetBrain’s solutions are geared towards simplifying and automating network operations, making it easier for IT teams to manage and maintain their networks efficiently.
NetBrain - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of NetBrain, a network automation platform, is crafted to be intuitive and comprehensive, catering to the needs of network engineers and IT professionals.Dynamic Maps and Visualizations
NetBrain’s interface is centered around dynamic maps that provide a visual representation of the network. These maps are not just static images but interactive, smart objects that contain thousands of attributes associated with each device. As users zoom in on the map, more detailed configuration data is presented, including links and device configurations. This dynamic zoom feature and the appearance of configlets when hovering over network elements make it easy to access and analyze network information quickly.Context Maps and Actions
The platform offers various predefined context maps, such as IPv4 and IPv6 L3 neighbor topology, L2 neighbor topology, geographic sites, and device groups. These context maps allow users to execute actions directly from the map, such as highlighting routing protocols on specific devices. This feature enhances the ease of use by providing immediate and relevant information based on the context.Intelligent Auto-Layout
NetBrain’s dynamic maps also include an intelligent auto-layout feature that organizes devices into a clearly structured flow, such as hierarchical or orthogonal layouts. This ensures that the map remains organized even when new elements are added, making it easier for users to visualize and manage their network.Integration and Single Pane of Glass
The interface integrates data from multiple tools and sources, providing a “single pane of glass” view. This integration allows users to see multiple layers of data from different tools in one place, reducing the need to switch between screens or tools. This unified view simplifies troubleshooting and network management.Executable Runbooks
NetBrain’s Problem Diagnostic Automation System (PDAS) includes executable Runbooks that automate repetitive diagnostic tasks. These Runbooks capture the expertise of subject matter experts and can be easily shared and executed, making it easier for less experienced engineers to troubleshoot issues efficiently. The interface allows users to manage these Runbooks and focus on the outcomes needed rather than device-by-device configurations.Ease of Use
The platform is generally user-friendly, with features that automate many tasks, such as mapping network paths and performing configuration analysis. Users have reported that creating rich network topology diagrams takes minutes instead of hours or days, and the interactive nature of the topology maps makes annotating and analyzing them very straightforward.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the ability to automate repetitive tasks, reducing the time spent on troubleshooting and documentation. Users appreciate the centralized control and the ability to visualize network paths quickly, which helps in making faster decisions and resolving complex problems. However, some users have noted that the system can feel slow at times and that upgrades can occasionally cause issues, but overall, the feedback is positive regarding its usability and effectiveness.Conclusion
In summary, NetBrain’s user interface is designed to be intuitive, with dynamic and interactive maps, integrated views, and automated features that simplify network management and troubleshooting. While there are some minor issues with performance and upgrades, the overall user experience is positive, reflecting the platform’s ability to streamline network operations. NetBrain - Key Features and Functionality
NetBrain Overview
NetBrain, a leading network automation platform, offers a wide range of features and functionalities that leverage AI and automation to streamline network management. Here are the main features and how they work:Data Modeling and Network Discovery
NetBrain begins by building a comprehensive data model of the entire network. This involves collecting live data via API, CLI, and SNMP to create a detailed inventory, topology, design, and baseline of the network. The data model includes over 12,000 variables per device, such as route tables, BGP peers, CPU utilization, and memory usage. This extensive data collection enables end-to-end visibility and programmability necessary for network automation.Dynamic Maps
Dynamic Maps are a key feature of NetBrain, providing visual representations of the network. These maps are automatically updated to reflect any changes in the network, ensuring that the documentation is always current. This feature allows network teams to visualize different layers and routings, facilitating quick troubleshooting and end-to-end traffic flow tracking.Executable Runbooks
Executable Runbooks are pre-defined sequences of diagnostic and automation steps that can be executed automatically or manually. These runbooks can be triggered by events detected by the network, such as interface status changes, and they capture data analytics in real-time to aid in troubleshooting. Runbooks can be customized without requiring programming skills, making automation accessible to all levels of network engineers.AI-Driven Troubleshooting
NetBrain integrates AI through its AI Co-Pilot feature, which orchestrates automation execution to enhance troubleshooting. This AI-driven approach helps in identifying issues quickly and accurately, reducing the Mean Time To Repair (MTTR). The AI analyzes network data continuously to detect deviations from the established Golden Baseline, generating alerts and providing insights for network management and troubleshooting.Golden Network Baseline
The Golden Baseline is a feature that develops a profile of normal network conditions over time by analyzing thousands of network variables. This baseline helps in identifying anomalies and deviations, triggering alerts when the network deviates from its normal state. This feature is critical for proactive network management and troubleshooting.SDN Support
NetBrain supports software-defined networks (SDN), including technologies like Cisco ACI and VMware NSX. It uses RESTful APIs to discover and manage SDN devices through their central controllers. Features include overlay and underlay mapping, logical structure visualization, and end-to-end path mapping for both ACI and non-ACI environments. This ensures seamless management and troubleshooting of hybrid networks.Integration with Existing Tools and ITSM
NetBrain integrates with various existing IT systems such as ServiceNow ITSM/CMDB, Splunk Log Management, PRTG, and SolarWinds. This integration allows for automated fault ticket creation, linking incident tickets to network documentation, and reducing manual intervention by up to 90%.Change Management and Automation
NetBrain automates routine tasks, configuration changes, and compliance checks, significantly reducing human error and the time spent on manual tasks. This automation helps in maintaining up-to-date network documentation and ensures that network changes are well-documented and visible to all stakeholders.Scalability and Multitenant Architecture
NetBrain is designed to scale for large enterprise networks, supporting over 100,000 network nodes and thousands of concurrent users. Its modular software architecture allows for horizontal scaling, and it supports full disaster recovery across multiple data centers. The multitenant architecture makes it ideal for service providers and operators.Team Collaboration and Visualization
NetBrain enhances team collaboration by providing clear, web-based maps and visually created views that allow all levels of IT personnel to act on network issues effectively. This ensures everyone has the same view and understanding of the network, facilitating more efficient troubleshooting and management.Conclusion
In summary, NetBrain leverages AI and automation to provide comprehensive network visibility, automated troubleshooting, and efficient management workflows. Its integration with various IT tools and its ability to handle heterogeneous networks make it a powerful solution for modern network management. NetBrain - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating NetBrain’s Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of NetBrain in the AI-driven networking tools category reveals several key strengths and some areas for potential improvement.
Performance
NetBrain’s AI-powered tools significantly enhance the performance of network troubleshooting and management. Here are some key aspects:
Accelerated Diagnostics and Resolution
NetBrain’s AI Co-Pilot enables quick diagnostics, reducing the Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) by automating a series of diagnostic steps and providing actionable results in real-time. This allows technicians to isolate and resolve issues much faster than traditional methods.
Streamlined Troubleshooting with Natural Language Processing
The AI Co-Pilot allows users to query network issues in plain English, receiving instant responses and diagnostic suggestions. This simplifies the troubleshooting process, making it accessible even to junior engineers.
Automated Action Plans
NetBrain automates diagnostics and recommends corrective actions, which helps in managing frequent incidents and complex networks efficiently. This automation minimizes the need for manual intervention and speeds up response times.
Predictive Analytics
The platform uses predictive analytics to forecast potential network problems before they arise, enhancing overall network reliability by identifying risks and suggesting preventative measures.
Accuracy
The accuracy of NetBrain’s AI-driven tools is bolstered by several features:
Real-Time Insights and Contextual Recommendations
The AI Co-Pilot provides real-time recommendations and contextual insights based on the current state of the network, ensuring that the information is accurate and relevant to the situation at hand.
Continuous Learning
The AI models within NetBrain continuously learn from new data and incidents, improving their accuracy and effectiveness over time. This adaptive learning enhances the performance of AI-driven insights and automation.
Digital Twin Integration
NetBrain uses digital twin technology to create a virtual representation of the network, allowing for real-time monitoring, simulation of changes, and predictive analysis. This ensures accurate and comprehensive network visibility.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While NetBrain offers significant advantages, there are a few areas where improvements could be made:
Cost
One of the notable limitations is the high cost of the solution. Users have mentioned that the pricing is steep, and more discounts could be beneficial, especially for long-term or large-scale users.
Reliance on Historical Data
While predictive analytics is a strong feature, it relies on historical data and trends. In environments where network conditions change frequently or unpredictably, the accuracy of these predictions might be affected.
Manual Processes and Tribal Knowledge
Despite the automation, some organizations still rely heavily on manual processes and “tribal knowledge.” NetBrain’s tools can help mitigate this, but a complete transition to automated processes may require significant cultural and procedural changes within the organization.
Cross-IT Collaboration
There is still a need for better cross-IT collaboration and knowledge sharing. NetBrain’s tools can facilitate this, but ensuring that all teams are on the same page and that best practices are digitized and shared remains a challenge.
In summary, NetBrain’s AI-driven networking tools offer substantial improvements in performance and accuracy, particularly in accelerating diagnostics, streamlining troubleshooting, and predicting potential issues. However, considerations such as cost, the need for historical data, and the ongoing reliance on manual processes and tribal knowledge are areas where further improvements or adjustments might be necessary.
NetBrain - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure of NetBrain
The pricing structure of NetBrain, a network automation platform, is based on a subscription license model and varies depending on several factors.
Licensing Metrics
NetBrain licenses its foundation product using two primary metrics:
- By Network Component: This includes the number of devices managed by their IP addresses for traditional networks, the number of leaf ports for ACI environments, and physical CPU for NSX and ESXI environments.
- By NetBrain Seat: Each seat can be shared by multiple users, but only one user can be logged in at a time using the same seat.
Additional Modules
There are two additional modules available as add-ons:
- Change Management Module
- Application Assurance Module
These modules use the same licensing metrics as the foundation product.
Pricing
The exact pricing depends on the number and type of network devices, as well as the modules deployed. For detailed pricing information, you need to request a quote from NetBrain.
Free Option
NetBrain offers a free version called the NetBrain Workstation Personal Edition. This edition is ideal for network engineers, especially those working towards certifications like Cisco CCIE, CCNP, or CCNA. It allows users to create fully-annotated L3 SmartMaps using configuration files or Trace Route results. This version is free, but users need to register their copy.
Trial Option
For commercial use, NetBrain provides a free 30-day evaluation of either the Architect Edition or the Operator Edition. This trial allows users to experience more advanced features such as accurate network discovery, network documentation automation, and powerful map-based network troubleshooting.
Summary
In summary, while the exact pricing is not publicly available and requires a quote, NetBrain offers a flexible licensing model based on network components and user seats, along with a free Personal Edition for individual use and trial options for commercial users.
NetBrain - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Other Tools and Systems
NetBrain integrates with various third-party systems to provide a unified view of the network. For instance, it supports integrations with:Zabbix
A free and open-source monitoring solution that allows for the monitoring of millions of metrics from numerous devices. This integration enables comprehensive monitoring and automated problem detection.
AppDynamics
A business observability platform by Cisco that provides full-stack visibility, helping to prioritize and address critical business and performance issues.
BigPanda
An AIOps platform that aggregates data from multiple sources to identify and resolve incidents quickly. This integration automates incident response processes, including ticketing and notification.
Cherwell Software
An IT Service Management (ITSM) platform that helps automate and modernize service and support processes. This integration streamlines IT service management workflows.
Service Now
NetBrain can trigger automatic map generation and live monitoring sessions based on alerts from Service Now, enhancing troubleshooting and collaboration.
API Integration
NetBrain offers comprehensive API support for flexible system integration. It supports various APIs such as REST, SOAP, JDBC, and NETCONF, allowing easy integration with different data sources. This includes:Data Correlation and Analysis
NetBrain uses its network map as a single pane of glass for data correlation and analysis, reducing complexity and improving data integrity.
Inventory Management
It can synchronize with inventory data from network or asset management systems, providing a centralized database for network assets.
Multi-Cloud Support
NetBrain has native support for multi-cloud infrastructures, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). It auto-discovers and visualizes hybrid-cloud networks, providing real-time application pathing and diagnostic logic across these environments. This ensures visibility from the data center to the cloud and across multiple clouds.Operating System Compatibility
NetBrain Integrated Edition supports newer releases of Linux and Windows Operating Systems, ensuring compatibility with a range of environments.Network Automation and Observability
With the release of NetBrain R12, the platform leverages AI, observability, and automation to revolutionize network operations. It introduces features like the GenAI-powered AI Co-Pilot, which simplifies network troubleshooting through natural language queries, and enhanced observability to move from reactive to proactive network management.In summary, NetBrain’s integration capabilities are extensive, allowing it to work seamlessly with various monitoring, management, and cloud platforms. Its API support and multi-cloud compatibility make it a versatile tool for managing complex network environments.
NetBrain - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options
NetBrain offers a comprehensive range of customer support options and additional resources to ensure their networking tools meet the needs of their users effectively.Premium Support Services
NetBrain’s Premium Support is ideal for customers who require around-the-clock support, especially those with global teams. Here are some key features of this service:- 24/7 Support: Availability for Severity Level 1 and Severity Level 2 issues, including weekends and public holidays.
- Dedicated Support Hotline: A dedicated phone hotline for critical issues.
- Technical Account Manager: A single point of contact to manage your cases.
- Response Times: Maximum response times of 2 hours for Severity Level 1 issues, 4 hours for Severity Level 2 issues, and 24-48 local business hours for Severity Level 3 issues.
- Additional Resources: Access to live technical support, phone and email support, customer support portal, basic how-to and troubleshooting assistance, and online support case management.
Advanced Services
NetBrain’s Advanced Services are divided into two main categories: Essential Services and Customization Services.Essential Services
These services include:- Installation and Configuration: Assistance with installing, upgrading, and setting up NetBrain servers, activating licenses, and configuring network settings.
- Initial Network Discovery: Help with discovering network devices, creating discovery reports, and analyzing results.
- Fine-Tuning Network Topology/Data: Ensuring live access to all network devices, resolving topology discontinuities, and updating credentials as needed.
Accelerator Service
This service is designed to enhance existing NetBrain deployments by:- Enhancing Workflows: Automating manual workflows, integrating third-party data sources, and creating dynamic network maps.
- Use Case Implementation: Identifying, designing, and implementing up to three key use cases based on the customer’s requirements.
- Training and Enablement: Training the customer’s team to use and expand these use cases.
Additional Resources
- Documentation and Knowledge Base: Access to NetBrain’s GitHub, documentation, videos, security alerts, and a comprehensive knowledge base.
- Integration with IT Systems: NetBrain integrates with various IT systems such as ServiceNow ITSM/CMDB, Splunk Log Management, and SolarWinds, allowing for seamless data exchange and automation.
- Community Support: Customers can connect through the NetBrain Customer Portal for additional support and resources.
Training and Automation Tools
NetBrain provides tools like Runbook automation, which allows third-level experts to automate tasks without needing programming skills. This includes automating workflows, visualizing network data, and integrating with other tools like ServiceNow, BMC, and Splunk. By offering these comprehensive support options and resources, NetBrain ensures that customers can maximize the benefits of their network automation platform. NetBrain - Pros and Cons
Advantages of NetBrain
NetBrain offers several significant advantages in the realm of AI-driven network troubleshooting and automation:Automated Troubleshooting
NetBrain’s AI Co-Pilot enables users to troubleshoot network issues using natural language queries. For example, if a network segment is experiencing slow response times, the Co-Pilot can interpret the query and provide a summary of relevant diagnostics, such as CPU usage, memory bottlenecks, or configuration issues.Proactive Network Management
NetBrain shifts network operations from a reactive to a proactive approach. It automates diagnostics, recommends corrective actions, and provides contextual insights, allowing teams to address issues before they become critical.Real-Time Network Documentation
NetBrain automatically keeps network documentation up to date, including physical and logical maps. This ensures that all team members have the same view and understanding of the network, which is particularly useful for service desk personnel and third-level experts.Integration with Existing Systems
NetBrain integrates seamlessly with various IT systems such as ServiceNow ITSM/CMDB, Splunk Log Management, PRTG, and SolarWinds. This integration allows for automatic fault ticket creation and provides links to network documentation, reducing manual incident ticket creation by up to 90%.No-Code Automation
NetBrain’s no-code platform allows engineers to create automation routines without needing programming skills. This makes it accessible to junior engineers and reduces the dependency on specialized skills.Multi-Vendor and Multi-Cloud Support
NetBrain supports a wide range of network types, including IP networks, data center networks, SDN, SD-WAN, and multicloud environments (Azure, AWS). This versatility makes it ideal for diverse and hybrid network environments.Predictive Maintenance
Using generative AI, NetBrain can predict potential network failures by analyzing configuration drift, failover risk, and deviations from golden design rules. This predictive capability helps in taking preventive actions to mitigate risks and enhance operational stability.Scalability
NetBrain’s automation scales network operations efficiently, allowing businesses to maintain optimal performance even as they grow and their networks become more complex.Disadvantages of NetBrain
While NetBrain offers numerous benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:Initial Setup and Learning Curve
Implementing NetBrain may require significant initial setup and training, especially for teams transitioning from traditional manual processes to an automated, AI-driven system. However, NetBrain’s Automation Center of Excellence (CoE) provides assistance in selecting, adapting, and implementing the platform.Dependency on AI and Automation
The effectiveness of NetBrain relies heavily on its AI and automation capabilities. If these systems encounter issues or are not properly configured, it could impact the overall performance and reliability of the network operations.Cost
While specific pricing details are not provided, implementing an advanced AI-driven network automation platform like NetBrain could be costly, especially for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets.Limited Customization in Certain Scenarios
Although NetBrain offers no-code automation, it may still have limitations in highly customized or unique network environments that require specific, non-standard solutions. In such cases, traditional code-based approaches might still be necessary. In summary, NetBrain’s AI-driven network automation platform offers substantial advantages in terms of automated troubleshooting, proactive network management, and real-time documentation, but it may also involve an initial learning curve, dependency on AI systems, and potential cost considerations. NetBrain - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing NetBrain Technologies with Other AI-Driven Networking Tools
Several unique features and potential alternatives stand out.
NetBrain Technologies
NetBrain’s network observability platform leverages generative AI to analyze vast amounts of data from network devices, applications, and users. Here are some of its key features:
- Co-Pilot Chatbot: Uses Large Language Model (LLM) technology and backend automation to streamline user interactions, provide actionable insights, and assist in troubleshooting by suggesting diagnostic steps.
- Network Automation: Includes Dynamic Maps for real-time network topology and live traffic paths. It also integrates Network Intents, which are no-code building blocks for automating key NetOps workflows like incident response, security policy enforcement, and change management.
- Predictive Maintenance: Continuously analyzes configuration drift, failover risk, and deviations from golden design rules to predict potential network failures and enable proactive validation strategies.
Juniper Networks AI-Native Networking Platform
Juniper’s platform is notable for its unified approach to campus, branch, and data center networking operations using a common AI engine and the Mist Marvis Virtual Network Assistant (VNA). Key features include:
- Reliability and Security: Ensures reliable, measurable, and secure connections for all devices, users, applications, and assets. It has been trained on seven years of insights and data science development.
- Efficiency: Claims up to 90% fewer networking trouble tickets, an 85% reduction in networking OpEx, and a 50% reduction in time to resolve networking incidents.
Nile AI Services Platform
Nile’s platform focuses on automating network design, configuration, and management. Key features include:
- AI-Based Network Design: The Nile Services Cloud includes AI applications for network design and deployment.
- Nile Copilot and Autopilot: These applications provide AI-based network monitoring and operations, integrating security, cloud-native service delivery, and closed-loop automation.
Forward Networks
Forward Networks specializes in network modeling software with its flagship product, Forward Enterprise. Key features include:
- Digital Twin: Offers a vendor-agnostic digital twin of networks that functions with both cloud-based and on-premises infrastructures. This enhances network reliability, agility, and security.
- Network Security Management: Provides multi-cloud visibility and network data intelligence to facilitate better network management.
IP Fabric
IP Fabric focuses on automated network assurance for enterprise networks. Key features include:
- Automated Discovery: Automates the discovery, verification, and documentation of network configurations.
- Network Assurance: Ensures network compliance and performance through continuous monitoring and analysis.
LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne
These tools also leverage AI for network monitoring and management:
- LogicMonitor: Uses AI for anomaly detection, predictive analytics, and intelligent troubleshooting to reduce incident resolution time.
- Auvik: Automates tasks like network mapping, device discovery, and configuration backups. It also uses AI for anomaly detection and predictive analytics.
- NinjaOne: Focuses on automation, real-time monitoring, and proactive issue resolution. It includes automated anomaly detection, predictive analytics, and routine task automation.
Unique Features of NetBrain
NetBrain stands out with its Co-Pilot Chatbot, which combines LLM technology with backend automation to provide user-friendly and actionable insights. Its integration of generative AI for predictive maintenance and its no-code automation platform for various NetOps workflows are also unique strengths.
Potential Alternatives
Depending on specific needs, alternatives like Juniper Networks for a unified AI-native platform, Nile for AI-based network design and deployment, Forward Networks for network modeling and digital twin capabilities, IP Fabric for automated network assurance, and tools like LogicMonitor, Auvik, or NinjaOne for AI-driven monitoring and management could be considered. Each of these alternatives offers distinct features that might better align with the specific requirements of an organization.
NetBrain - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about NetBrain’s networking tools, along with detailed responses:
What is NetBrain and what does it do?
NetBrain is a network automation platform that helps in automating network troubleshooting, documentation, and change management. It uses a combination of AI and automation to provide actionable hybrid network-wide observability, automate troubleshooting, and enable safe change management.
How does NetBrain’s Problem Diagnosis Automation System (PDAS) work?
PDAS is a tool that automates network troubleshooting by matching current issues to previously encountered problems. It can diagnose issues and populate findings into IT service management tickets. If a novel issue arises, PDAS captures the steps taken by network managers to resolve it, creating automation templates for future use. This approach can resolve up to 95% of network service tickets and prevent up to 50% of abnormal network conditions that could lead to outages.
What types of networks does NetBrain support?
NetBrain supports a wide range of networks, including IP networks (LAN, WLAN, VPN, MPLS, SD-WAN), Data Center Networks (SDN, Cisco ACI, VMware NSX), and multicloud environments (Azure, AWS). It is also suitable for networks using BGP or OSPF for dynamic routing and backup links, as well as Intent-Based Networks (IBN) and Policy-Based Networks (PBN).
How does NetBrain integrate with other IT systems?
NetBrain integrates with various IT systems such as ServiceNow ITSM/CMDB, Splunk Log Management, PRTG, and SolarWinds. This integration allows for automatic creation of fault tickets and provides links to network documentation and problem descriptions, reducing the need for manual incident ticket creation by up to 90%.
What is the licensing model for NetBrain?
NetBrain uses a subscription license model. The licensing is based on two metrics: by network component (e.g., number of devices, leaf ports, physical CPUs) and by NetBrain seat (where one seat can be shared by multiple users but only one user can be logged in at a time). There are also additional modules available as add-ons, such as Change Management and Application Assurance modules.
Does NetBrain require programming or scripting for automation?
No, NetBrain does not require programming or scripting for automation. It offers a no-code Day-2 network automation platform where third-level experts can automate tasks without needing to write scripts or use separate software robots. This makes it easier for network managers to implement automation.
How does NetBrain help in reducing downtime and improving network efficiency?
NetBrain reduces unplanned downtime by automating troubleshooting and resolving reported and detected issues faster. It also protects the network from the unintended consequences of change and enforces network compliance that is secure by design. This helps in maintaining ideal network conditions for the applications it supports, thereby reducing Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) and mitigating risk.
What are the key benefits of using NetBrain for network documentation and automation?
Key benefits include keeping network layer 2 and layer 3 documentation automatically up to date, providing clear web-based maps and visually created views that allow first-level service desk personnel to act like second-level experts, and automating tasks without the need for device manufacturer tools or CLI skills.
How does NetBrain handle novel network issues that it has not encountered before?
When PDAS encounters a novel network issue, it provides information about what the problem isn’t and then captures the steps a network manager takes to resolve the issue. This resolution is then turned into an automation template, making the resolution repeatable and shareable. This process helps in improving the system over time as it encounters more network issues.
Is NetBrain suitable for service providers and operators?
Yes, NetBrain is ideal for service providers and operators due to its multitenant architecture and extensive SDN support. This makes it suitable for managing multiple networks and ensuring consistent network documentation and automation across different environments.
NetBrain - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of NetBrain in the Networking Tools AI-driven Product Category
NetBrain stands out as a formidable tool in the AI-driven networking tools category, particularly for organizations managing complex, multi-vendor network infrastructures. Here’s a detailed look at its benefits and who would most benefit from using it.Key Features and Benefits
Network Observability and Automation
NetBrain leverages generative AI and no-code automation to provide real-time insights into network behavior and performance. It creates a Digital Twin of the network, incorporating real-time configurations, traffic forwarding, and device states. This enables proactive issue detection, root cause analysis, performance optimization, and security compliance.
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
The platform automates diagnostics through its intelligent no-code automation platform, significantly reducing downtime and improving Mean Time To Repair (MTTR). It can analyze past incidents and suggest potential fixes, making troubleshooting more efficient.
Visualizations and Mapping
NetBrain offers dynamic maps and real-time path analysis, which are crucial for visualizing network topology and troubleshooting. These visualizations can be exported for further documentation and audit purposes.
Predictive Maintenance
By continuously analyzing configuration drift, failover risk, and deviations from golden design rules, NetBrain allows teams to take preventive actions to mitigate risks before they become issues.
User Interaction and Support
The Co-Pilot Chatbot, powered by Large Language Model (LLM) technology, streamlines user interactions by providing actionable insights, creating summary observability dashboards, and guiding users through diagnostic processes.
Who Would Benefit Most
Large Enterprises
Organizations with complex, multi-vendor network infrastructures will greatly benefit from NetBrain’s capabilities. It helps in managing and troubleshooting large networks efficiently, reducing the time and resources required for network management.
Network Engineers and Teams
Network engineers dealing with complicated network issues will find NetBrain’s automated diagnostics, real-time path analysis, and predictive maintenance features particularly useful. These tools help in identifying and resolving issues quickly, improving overall network performance and stability.
IT and Operations Teams
Teams involved in incident response, change management, and security policy enforcement can leverage NetBrain’s automation capabilities to streamline their workflows and ensure compliance and performance across the network.
Overall Recommendation
NetBrain is highly recommended for organizations seeking to enhance their network operations through AI-driven automation and observability. Its ability to provide real-time insights, automate troubleshooting, and predict potential network failures makes it an invaluable tool for maintaining network stability and performance.
However, it is important to note that the cost of NetBrain can be high, which might be a consideration for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets.
Before implementing NetBrain, it is advisable to define clear use cases and success criteria, and to conduct a proof-of-concept targeting real production use cases to ensure the product meets your specific needs.
In summary, NetBrain is a powerful solution for organizations looking to streamline their network operations, improve troubleshooting efficiency, and enhance overall network performance and security.