SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Product Overview
Introduction to SolarWinds Network Automation Manager
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM) is a comprehensive network management solution that integrates various essential tools for monitoring, automating, and managing network operations. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
NAM is designed to reduce network outages and improve overall network performance. It combines advanced network automation tools to detect, diagnose, and resolve network performance issues efficiently. This solution is built to manage network performance, traffic, configuration, and IP address management across diverse IT environments, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid setups.
Target Audience
NAM is primarily aimed at network administrators and IT professionals managing large and complex networks. It is particularly beneficial for midsize to large enterprises that need to scale their network management capabilities. The solution caters to those who require a unified platform to handle multiple aspects of network management.
Key Features
Network Performance Monitoring
NAM includes tools to monitor fault, availability, and performance for every node and path in the network. It provides hop-by-hop critical path analysis and visualization to view network performance and traffic details.
Traffic and Bandwidth Analysis
The solution features integrated flow monitoring and analysis, allowing administrators to identify bandwidth hogs and analyze network traffic effectively.
Configuration and Change Management
NAM enables the backup, bulk deployment, and management of network device configurations. This helps in quick recovery from hardware faults and configuration errors.
IP Address Management
It streamlines IP management with automated scanning, DHCP, DNS, and IP address tracking. This includes IP troubleshooting, alerting, and reporting capabilities.
User and Device Tracking
The User Device Tracker (UDT) feature allows for monitoring and managing switch port usage, detecting unauthorized devices, and tracking users and endpoint devices.
WAN Performance Monitoring
NAM monitors WAN performance from the perspective of remote locations and assesses the impact on VoIP infrastructure using Cisco IP SLA Traffic Simulation.
High Availability and Scaling
The solution supports high availability and can scale to manage networks with hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes, making it suitable for large and complex networks.
Customizable Dashboards and Alerts
NAM offers customizable dashboards, maps, alerts, and reports, allowing administrators to tailor the solution to their specific network environment.
Overall, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a versatile and scalable solution that simplifies network operations by integrating multiple network management modules into a single unified platform.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM)
The user interface of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM) is designed to be intuitive and comprehensive, catering to the needs of network administrators across various environments.
Unified Web Console
SolarWinds NAM provides a single, unified web console that integrates multiple network management tools. This console allows users to monitor, automate, and manage their network from a central location, making it easier to oversee network performance, traffic, and configuration.
Key Features and Dashboards
The interface includes various dashboards and tools such as the Network Performance Monitor (NPM), Netflow Traffic Analyzer (NTA), User Device Tracker (UDT), VoIP & Network Quality Manager (VNQM), Network Configuration Manager (NCM), and IP Address Manager (IPAM). These components offer a range of features, including performance monitoring, traffic and bandwidth analysis, real-time configuration change notifications, and switch port and end-user monitoring. The dashboards are customizable, allowing users to track and view the metrics most relevant to their network environment.
Customization and Alerting
Users can configure drag-and-drop charts and graphs to suit their specific needs. The platform also offers advanced alerting options, including customizable triggers for various scenarios and multiple delivery methods such as SMS, email, and SNMP traps. This flexibility ensures that users can set up the system to alert them in a way that is most effective for their operations.
Visual Mapping and Analysis
SolarWinds NAM includes visual mapping tools like NetPath, which provides a hop-by-hop analysis of network infrastructure. This helps in visualizing network paths and troubleshooting issues more effectively. The system also auto-updates network maps, giving users contextual insights into network performance and traffic.
Ease of Use
The interface is generally user-friendly, with features like automated subnet discovery and IP scanning that simplify network management tasks. The software is also scalable, supporting environments from hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes, which makes it accessible for both small and large networks.
Overall User Experience
Overall, the user experience is enhanced by the comprehensive and integrated nature of the software. It streamlines network monitoring and management, reducing the time and effort required to manage network devices and troubleshoot issues. The customizable dashboards and alerting options further contribute to a positive user experience by allowing administrators to focus on the most critical aspects of their network.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Key Features and Functionality
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager Overview
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a comprehensive tool that simplifies and automates various aspects of network management. Here are the main features and how they work:
Network Performance Monitoring
This feature allows you to monitor the fault, availability, and performance of every node and path in your network. It provides real-time data on how your network bandwidth is being used, helping you identify and address performance issues promptly.
Network Traffic Analysis
With integrated flow monitoring and analysis, you can easily analyze network traffic and identify bandwidth hogs. This helps in optimizing network usage and ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Configuration Management
The tool enables you to monitor, backup, and bulk deploy network device configurations. This feature is crucial for quickly recovering from hardware faults and configuration errors, ensuring minimal downtime and maintaining network integrity.
IP Address Management
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager includes automated subnet discovery and IP scanning. This feature helps in managing IP addresses efficiently, detecting any unauthorized or rogue devices connecting to your network, and monitoring switch port usage.
Network Mapping and Discovery
The software can scour your network with automated subnet discovery and IP scanning, creating a detailed map of your network. This helps in identifying all devices connected to the network and ensuring that your network topology is up-to-date.
WAN and Wireless Network Monitoring
You can monitor the performance of your WAN from the perspective of your remote locations, assessing the impact on your VoIP infrastructure. This ensures that your wide-area network and wireless networks are performing optimally.
Network Compliance and Security
The tool includes features for network compliance and security, such as detecting unauthorized devices and managing switch port usage. This helps in maintaining the security and compliance of your network environment.
Customizable Dashboards and Alerting
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager offers customizable dashboards and alerting systems. You can generate reports and set up alerts to inform you about issues in your network, allowing for quick response and resolution.
High Availability
The software ensures the uptime of your monitoring system with High Availability features. This is crucial for maintaining continuous monitoring and management of your network infrastructure.
AI Integration
While the specific resources provided do not detail the integration of AI within the SolarWinds Network Automation Manager, it is important to note that SolarWinds does offer AI-driven solutions in other products, such as their AI Service Desk. However, for the Network Automation Manager, the focus is on automated and comprehensive network management without explicit AI-driven features mentioned.
Conclusion
In summary, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a powerful tool that streamlines network management through automated configuration, performance monitoring, and issue resolution. It supports networks of all sizes, from hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes, and provides a unified web console for all your network management needs.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
SolarWinds NAM is built to handle large and complex network environments with a comprehensive set of features. Here are some highlights:Network Performance Monitoring
NAM reduces network outages and improves performance by quickly detecting, diagnosing, and resolving network issues. It uses hop-by-hop critical path analysis and visualization to provide detailed network performance and traffic insights.Traffic and Bandwidth Analysis
The tool collects, monitors, and analyzes NetFlow, sFlow, J-Flow, IPFIX, and NetStream data to identify traffic patterns and application usage with up to one-minute granularity.WAN Performance Monitoring
Using Cisco IP SLA technology, NAM simulates traffic to test network performance between devices, ensuring key applications and services are performing optimally.Config and Change Management
NAM automates network device configuration management, including backup, bulk deployment, and real-time change notifications, helping to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.Accuracy
The accuracy of NAM is enhanced by several features:Real-Time Monitoring
The tool provides real-time monitoring of network devices, switch ports, and end-users, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information about network usage and performance.Topology- and Dependency-Aware Alerts
NAM generates intelligent alerts based on network topology and device dependencies, reducing false positives and ensuring that alerts are relevant and accurate.IP Address Management
Automated subnet discovery and IP scanning help in identifying IP conflicts, subnet depletion, and DNS mismatches, ensuring accurate IP management.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While NAM is a powerful tool, there are some limitations and areas where it could be improved:Learning Curve
NAM is designed for large, complex enterprises, which can make it challenging for network administrators without the necessary technical expertise to use. Training is often required to fully utilize the tool’s features.Scalability and Cost
While NAM scales well to large environments, the cost of implementing and maintaining it, especially for smaller networks, can be prohibitive. Additionally, the need for additional SQL licenses or other database solutions can add to the overall cost.User Interface
Some users might find the interface overwhelming due to the extensive range of features and functionalities integrated into a single platform. However, the customizable single-pane-of-glass monitoring helps in streamlining the view according to user needs. In summary, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager offers high performance and accuracy in managing complex network environments, but it may require significant training and investment, particularly for smaller or less complex networks. SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure
The pricing for SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is generally based on the number of nodes (network devices) that need to be managed. Here are some aspects of the pricing:Node-Based Licensing
The cost is determined by the number of nodes you need to manage. For example, a subscription upgrade license can be purchased for a specific number of nodes, such as an upgrade from 4000 nodes to 5000 nodes.Licensing Tiers
While the sources do not provide a detailed breakdown of different pricing tiers, here is what can be inferred:Subscription Licenses
These licenses are available for different node counts. For instance, you can upgrade from a lower node count to a higher one, such as from 4000 to 5000 nodes.Features Available
Here are some of the key features included in the SolarWinds Network Automation Manager:Network Performance Monitoring
Monitor fault, availability, and performance for every node and path in your network.Configuration Management
Backup, bulk deploy, and manage network device configurations to recover from hardware faults and configuration errors.Automated Subnet Discovery and IP Scanning
Scour your network for unauthorized devices and manage switch port usage.Network Traffic Analysis
Analyze network traffic and bandwidth usage with integrated flow monitoring and analysis.High Availability
Ensure uptime of your monitoring system.Free Options
SolarWinds offers a free trial for the Network Automation Manager, allowing you to test the product before committing to a purchase.Additional Information
For precise pricing, it is recommended to contact SolarWinds directly or consult with a sales team, as the pricing can vary based on the specific needs and the number of nodes required. SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Integration and Compatibility
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM)
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM) is a comprehensive solution that integrates a wide range of network management tools, making it highly compatible and versatile across various IT environments.
Integration with Other Tools
NAM consolidates the functionality of several SolarWinds network management products into a single license. This includes:
- Network Performance Monitor (NPM): For monitoring network performance and availability.
- NetFlow Traffic Analyzer (NTA): For traffic and bandwidth analysis.
- Network Configuration Manager (NCM): For network change and configuration management.
- IP Address Manager (IPAM): For streamlining IP address management.
- User Device Tracker (UDT): For monitoring and tracking switch ports and end-users.
- VoIP & Network Quality Manager (VNQM): For monitoring VoIP and network quality.
This integration allows for a unified web console where you can manage multiple aspects of your network, from performance and traffic analysis to configuration and IP address management.
Compatibility Across Platforms and Devices
NAM is compatible with a variety of IT environments, including:
- On-premises: It can be deployed in traditional on-premises settings.
- Cloud: It supports cloud environments, allowing for monitoring and management of cloud-based resources.
- Hybrid: It is designed to work seamlessly in hybrid IT environments, combining on-premises and cloud resources.
In terms of device compatibility, NAM supports monitoring and management of a wide range of network devices, regardless of their location. It includes features like hop-by-hop critical path analysis and visualization, which helps in viewing network performance and traffic details across different devices.
Additional Compatibility Features
- Multi-vendor Support: NAM can monitor and manage devices from multiple vendors, making it a versatile solution for heterogeneous network environments.
- High Availability: The software includes High Availability features to ensure the uptime of your monitoring system, which is crucial for large and complex networks.
- Scalability: NAM is scalable and can support networks ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes, making it suitable for both small and large-scale networks.
Overall, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager offers extensive integration with various network management tools and is highly compatible with different platforms and devices, making it a comprehensive solution for managing complex IT environments.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
SolarWinds provides multiple channels for technical support, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it:Phone Support
You can contact SolarWinds via phone for the fastest response, with regional phone numbers available.Online Support Ticket
Submit an online support case through the SolarWinds Customer Success Center.Email Support
You can also reach out via email at technicalsupport@solarwinds.com.Premium Support
For enhanced support, SolarWinds offers Premium Support, which includes a designated support team of highly trained experts familiar with your environment and business objectives. This service helps with troubleshooting, upgrade planning, deployment, and an annual health check to proactively avoid future issues.Onboarding Programs
SolarWinds offers assisted and self-led onboarding programs to help you get started with Network Automation Manager. These programs provide access to implementation experts who will assist in installing, configuring, and optimizing your product to meet your business needs.Training and Education
The SolarWinds Academy is a valuable resource that provides next-level education through virtual classrooms, eLearning videos, and professional certification programs. This helps you gain a comprehensive understanding of the product and its features. You can also attend live and on-demand training sessions.Community Support
SolarWinds has a vibrant and engaged IT community through the THWACK forum, where you can interact with over 200,000 members. Here, you can solve problems, get help, and share experiences with other users.Documentation and Guides
The SolarWinds Customer Success Center offers extensive documentation, including product guides, support articles, and installation guides. This resource helps you install, troubleshoot, and optimize your SolarWinds products effectively.Customer Portal
The Customer Portal allows you to manage your licenses, create and track support tickets, download the latest software releases, patches, and hotfixes, and attend live and on-demand training sessions. You can also create individual user accounts for your team. By leveraging these support options and resources, users of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager can ensure they are well-equipped to manage and optimize their network environments efficiently. SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Pros and Cons
Advantages of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM)
Comprehensive Integration
SolarWinds NAM integrates multiple network management modules into a single platform, including Network Performance Monitor (NPM), NetFlow Traffic Analyzer (NTA), Network Configuration Manager (NCM), IP Address Manager (IPAM), User Device Tracker (UDT), and VoIP & Network Quality Manager (VNQM). This unified approach simplifies network operations and provides a single-pane-of-glass view for all network management needs.
Scalability
NAM is designed to scale to environments of all sizes, from hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes, making it suitable for both small and large enterprises. It includes built-in High Availability and scaling features, ensuring that the system can handle growing network demands.
Ease of Implementation
The software offers a do-it-yourself installation and deployment process, allowing users to get up and running quickly without the need for professional services or consultants. This reduces the time and resources required for setup.
Customization
NAM allows for extensive customization of dashboards, maps, alerts, and reports to accommodate the specific needs of different network environments. This flexibility ensures that network administrators can monitor and manage their networks in a way that best suits their requirements.
Automated Features
The tool includes automated subnet discovery, IP scanning, and the ability to monitor, backup, and bulk deploy network device configurations. It also detects unauthorized or rogue devices and monitors switch port usage, enhancing network security and efficiency.
Performance Monitoring
NAM provides comprehensive monitoring of network performance, including fault, availability, and bandwidth usage. It also analyzes network traffic and bandwidth hogs with integrated flow monitoring and analysis, helping to optimize network performance.
Disadvantages of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM)
Technical Support Issues
Some users have reported issues with technical support, which can be a significant drawback for those who rely on prompt and effective assistance for resolving problems.
Integration Challenges
There have been reports of challenges in integrating NAM with additional security solutions and cloud services, which can limit its functionality in more complex IT environments.
Real-Time Analytics
Users have expressed a need for improved real-time analytics and better user-generated graphs, indicating that the current analytics capabilities may not fully meet the needs of all users.
Offline License Management
There are concerns about the management of offline licenses, which can be inconvenient for organizations that need to manage licenses in various environments.
Overall, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager offers a wide range of benefits for network management, but it also has some areas where it could be improved, particularly in terms of technical support, integration, and analytics capabilities.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Comparison with Competitors
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager
This tool is renowned for its comprehensive suite of features, including:
- Performance Monitoring: Monitors network performance in real-time.
- Traffic & Bandwidth Analysis: Analyzes network traffic and bandwidth usage.
- Configuration Management: Automates configuration and change management.
- Switch Port and End-User Monitoring: Tracks switch ports and end-user activities.
- WAN Performance Monitoring: Monitors WAN performance.
- IP Address Management: Manages IP addresses efficiently.
Unique Features
SolarWinds stands out with its broad range of integrated features, including network path analysis, configuration management, and extensive customization options. It is particularly adept at handling complex network environments and offers significant long-term ROI despite a higher initial investment.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Juniper Networks AI-Native Networking Platform
Juniper’s platform uses AI to unify campus, branch, and data center networking operations. It features the Mist Marvis Virtual Network Assistant (VNA) and has been trained on seven years of data. Key benefits include up to 90% fewer trouble tickets, an 85% reduction in OpEx, and a 50% reduction in incident resolution time. This platform focuses on reliability, measurability, and security for all network connections.
Nile AI Services Platform
Nile’s platform, backed by former Cisco CEO John Chambers, includes AI-based network design, automated network deployment, and AI-powered monitoring and operations. It integrates security, cloud-native service delivery, and closed-loop automation for campus and branch IT infrastructures. Nile’s platform is particularly useful for enterprises looking to reimagine their network design and operations.
NetBrain
NetBrain is another competitor in the network automation category. It offers dynamic network mapping, real-time updates, and automation workflows. While NetBrain has a lower upfront cost and quicker deployment, it lacks the comprehensive features and scalability of SolarWinds. NetBrain is more suitable for smaller or less complex networks.
Key Differences
- Scalability: SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is highly scalable and suitable for large, complex networks, whereas NetBrain might be more appropriate for smaller networks.
- AI Integration: Juniper and Nile platforms heavily integrate AI for network operations, focusing on reducing trouble tickets and operational costs, whereas SolarWinds, while not explicitly AI-native, offers a wide range of automated features.
- Cost and ROI: SolarWinds requires a higher initial investment but offers significant long-term ROI, while NetBrain has a lower upfront cost but may not provide the same level of long-term benefits.
In summary, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a strong choice for large and complex networks due to its comprehensive features and scalability. However, for those looking for AI-native solutions or more budget-friendly options, Juniper’s AI-Native Networking Platform or Nile’s AI Services Platform might be more suitable alternatives.
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about SolarWinds Network Automation Manager
What is SolarWinds Network Automation Manager?
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM) is a comprehensive network automation and management software designed for on-premises, cloud, and hybrid IT environments. It integrates various network management functions into a single, unified web console, including performance monitoring, traffic and bandwidth analysis, configuration and change management, switch port and end-user monitoring, WAN performance monitoring, and IP address management.What are the key features of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager?
The key features include:- Performance Monitoring: Monitoring fault, availability, and performance for every node and path in the network.
- Traffic & Bandwidth Analysis: Analyzing network traffic and bandwidth usage.
- Config & Change Management: Backing up, deploying, and managing network device configurations.
- Switch Port and End-User Monitoring: Tracking users and endpoint devices, and monitoring switch port usage.
- WAN Performance Monitoring: Assessing WAN performance from remote locations and its impact on VoIP infrastructure.
- IP Address Management: Automating IP scanning and management.
How does SolarWinds Network Automation Manager help in network troubleshooting?
NAM helps in quickly detecting, diagnosing, and resolving network performance issues through advanced network automation tools. It provides hop-by-hop critical path analysis and visualization along the service delivery path, allowing you to view network performance and traffic details regardless of device location.Can SolarWinds Network Automation Manager scale to large networks?
Yes, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is designed to scale to environments of all sizes, from hundreds to tens of thousands of nodes. It is particularly suited for large and complex networks, integrating functionalities from various SolarWinds network management products into a single license.What kind of support and maintenance does SolarWinds offer for Network Automation Manager?
SolarWinds licensed products, including Network Automation Manager, come with a year of maintenance from the date of purchase. This maintenance includes phone consulting, 24×7 technical support, and other ongoing support at a fraction of the original purchase price. Annual maintenance renewals are also available.How does SolarWinds Network Automation Manager handle network configuration and change management?
NAM allows you to monitor, backup, and bulk deploy network device configurations. This helps in quickly recovering from hardware faults and configuration errors, ensuring network stability and reducing downtime.Can existing SolarWinds customers transition to Network Automation Manager?
Yes, current customers can transition to Network Automation Manager. If you own or are considering several network management products, NAM may be a more comprehensive solution. SolarWinds can help outline a transition plan for existing customers.What kind of training and resources are available for SolarWinds Network Automation Manager?
SolarWinds offers various training options, including instructor-led classes through the SolarWinds Academy and on-demand sessions. These resources help in getting new employees up to speed quickly and provide tips, tricks, and new feature trainings for each release.Does SolarWinds Network Automation Manager support high availability?
Yes, NAM includes features to ensure the uptime of your monitoring system with High Availability, which is crucial for maintaining continuous network monitoring and management.How does SolarWinds Network Automation Manager detect unauthorized devices?
NAM detects unauthorized or rogue devices by tracking users and endpoint devices and monitoring switch port usage. This helps in maintaining network security and compliance. SolarWinds Network Automation Manager - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of SolarWinds Network Automation Manager
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager (NAM) is a comprehensive and versatile tool that caters to the diverse needs of network management across various environments, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid setups.
Key Benefits and Features
- Comprehensive Monitoring: NAM offers extensive features such as network performance monitoring, traffic and bandwidth analysis, WAN performance monitoring, and wireless network monitoring. This ensures that all aspects of the network are closely watched and optimized.
- Automation and Configuration: The software provides automated change and configuration management, IP address management, and network device monitoring. These features help in streamlining network operations and reducing manual errors.
- Security and Compliance: NAM includes network security and compliance features, ensuring that the network adheres to regulatory standards and is secure from potential threats.
- Customization and Reporting: Users can benefit from customizable dashboards, alerting and reporting capabilities, which help in quick decision-making and issue resolution.
Who Would Benefit Most
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is particularly beneficial for:
- Large and Complex Networks: Organizations with extensive and intricate network infrastructures will find NAM invaluable due to its ability to scale and provide unified monitoring and management.
- IT Teams: IT departments looking to automate routine tasks, improve network performance, and enhance security will appreciate the comprehensive set of tools offered by NAM.
- Businesses of All Sizes: Whether you are a small business or an enterprise, NAM’s flexibility and scalability make it a suitable choice for managing network operations efficiently.
Overall Recommendation
SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a strong contender in the networking tools category due to its wide range of features and its ability to adapt to different network environments. Here are some key points to consider:
- Cost-Effectiveness: NAM is viewed as cost-effective with a quicker return on investment (ROI) due to its pricing structure and immediate benefits of network automation.
- Ease of Deployment: Users have reported a relatively straightforward deployment process, especially for on-premises setups, along with highly rated customer service for troubleshooting and assistance.
- Feature Set: While it may not offer the same level of integration with cloud services as some competitors like AWS Systems Manager, NAM’s feature set is highly praised for its comprehensiveness and utility in network management.
In summary, SolarWinds Network Automation Manager is a solid choice for any organization seeking to enhance their network management capabilities, automate routine tasks, and ensure optimal network performance and security. Its versatility, scalability, and user-friendly features make it an excellent option for IT teams and businesses of all sizes.