Network Management Notes

1. Chapter 1 - A Networking Overview
2. Chapter 2 - Sharing Computer Resources
3. Chapter 3 -Using Electronic Mail
4. Chapter 4 - Using File Servers
5. Chapter 5 - Using Protocols, Cables and Adapters
6. Designing Networks for Las Vegas Schools
7. Chapter 6 - Using Workstations
8. Chapter 7 - Using NetWare
9. Chapter 8 - Using Windows NT
10. Chapter 9 - Using Peer LANs
11. Chapter 10 - Using UNIX LANs
12. Chapter 11 - Using Network Applications
13. Chapter 12 - Managing Your Network

LAN - Local Area Network

Understanding What a LAN Can Do

• Share Data
• Share Software Applications Resources
• Share Hardware Resources
• Communicate with Others

Understanding the Components of a LAN
Computers
WorkStations(Clients) & Servers
LAN cables

• Thinnet (thin coaxial wire)
• Thicknet (thick coaxial wire)
• STP (shielded twisted pair)
• UTP (unshielded twisted pair)
• fiber optic

Network interface cards

	Ethernet cards: BNC (T) connector; DB15; RJ-type - 10 Mbit/sec

		uses Carrier Sense, Multiple Access/Collision Detection

	Token Ring cards: DB9 or RJ-type - 4 - 16 Mbit/sec

		uses tokens

	ArcNet - 2.5 Mbit/sec


		uses tokens


	LANtastic (proprietary system) - 2 Mbit/sec





Data Transfer Speeds on a LAN


10 Mbit/sec = 1.2 Mbyte/sec


LAN speed < speed of slowest component


Network Operating System Software


peer-to-peer LAN vs. client-server LAN


protocol - rules for transmitting data across a network

Sharing Disks and Files

Sharing Files without a LAN

Peer-to-Peer Networks


cables & network cards


software


	Windows for WorkGroups


	LANtastic


	Netware Lite / Personal Netware





1. Using your PC as a Workstation and Server (run DOS SHARE.EXE)


2. Allowing Others to Access Your Computer (rebooting when others are connected)


3. Managing Disk Space (may want to partition disk for sharing)


4. Backing Up and Restoring Peer LAN Files


	use tape drive


5. Handling Security and Administration on a Peer LAN


	Account IDs and Passwords


	Assign Permissions


	Network Administrator (Supervisor or Manager)





Server-Based LANs


	better performance and increased reliability


ex.	AppleTalk, OS/2 LAN Server, Novell Netware, Banyan Vines, Microsoft NT





1. Using your PC as a Workstation (not accessible from other clients)


2. Managing Disk Space (net administrator partitions disk for each user)


3. Backing Up and Restoring Files


	backup server


	Software = Emerald, Mountain Network Solutions, Palindrome


4. Need Faster, Larger Disks


5. Handling Security and Administration Issues (full-time position)


	Account IDs and Passwords


	Assign Permissions




Sharing Printers


Using Printer Switchboxes


Using Print Servers


Redirecting Printouts


	Can use LPT1, LPT2 & LPT3


Using Laser Printers


	Speed (LaserJet IIP = 4 ppm; LaserJet IVsi = 17 ppm)


	Duty Cycles = period of time printer can operate without stopping


		(1 toner cartridge = 6,000 pages; overhaul = 100,000 pages)


	Font Cartridges and Downloadable Fonts


	Amount of RAM


Using Dot-Matrix Printers


	use for preprinted forms, multipart forms and address labels


Practicing Printer-Sharing Etiquette




Sharing CD-ROM Drives


WORM (write-once-read-many) disk drives (good for backup and archiving)


read/write optical drives


juke boxes


hold at least 680 M per disk




CD-ROMs Require Special Drivers


	MSCDEX does not work with all LANs




Sharing FAX Machines




Using Modems and LAN Communications


Dialing Out


RS-232 switchbox


Modem pooling




Connecting through a Gateway Computer




Dialing In (requires remote access software)


	Carbon Copy; Close-Up; NETremote; pcANYWHERE


	NT & 95 have built-in remote-access capability




Novell's Access Server


	supports multiple sessions




DCA's Remote LAN Node


	easy to install and use but requires special modem




Connecting LANs through Wide Area Networks


	router - connects LANs using the same protocol


	bridge - connects LANs which may be using different protocols

Chapter 3 -Using Electronic Mail

An E-mail Overview

	mechanism for transferring a file of text from one person to one or more others




  	must be network based (but not necessarily LAN)




Understanding E-mail Components


	requires a "post office" component and a user interface component




post office  removes address from message  and sends document to its destination invisibly




user interface should include an easy-to-use text editor; should be able to append files created
with a wordprocessor




Looking at the Perfect E-mail Package


	Most are expensive


	should be installed by network administrator


	security & file encryption


	new mail notification


	proprietary vs. open system


		UUCP (Unix-to-Unix copy)


		SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)


	add-ons: voice mail; on-line conferencing, bulletin boards


	should be able to archive and organize mail, forward & reply to mail with annotations




Using Special Delivery


	E-mail bridge - connects two similar E-mail systems


	E-mail gateway - translates between different message formats for dissimilar systems




Deciding Whether You Need E-mail


	monetary cost; disk space; administrative costs




Using X.400, MHS and Other Standards




X.400


	CCITT specification for E-mail interexchange


		defines addressing


		X.401 - describes basic intersystem service elements


		X.411 - defines message-transfer protocols


		X.410 - defines mail-handling protocols (OSI for E-mail)


	not all implementations support sending binary files and Group 3 faxes


	requires a gateway from LAN to an X.25 packet-switching network




	addresses require at least a user name / user number / first name & surname for local mail
plus an ADMD (Administrative Management Domain) and a PRMD (Private Mail Domain) e.g.
ADMD:MCIMail, PRMD:HighlandsMail, FN:Wayne, SN:Summers




CCITT has also defines X.500 - a directory assistance system for containting E-mail addresses of
users with accounts in X.400 systems




MHS


Message Handling Service standard created by Action Technologies (Open System)


	bundled with Netware


	requires a dedicated server


	sets up a publicly accessible server directory structure


	anyone on the net can create a message (standard MHS packet {ASCII file})


	MHS mailbox holds messages before passing them to the e-mail mailbox




Using Address Lists




Using a File Server as a Post Office


	Each user should have separate & secure mailbox




Using E-mail Products

	

Pegasus Mail

	freeware for Netware LANs

	files placed in a public directory

	NewMail program informs user when new mail is received


cc:Mail (from Lotus)

	DOS, Windows, OS/2 and MAC versions

	uses network file server 

	easy to use


Microsoft Mail

	built-into WFWG; Microsoft Mail & Schedule+ Extensions; Microsoft mail 3.1

	requires post office on a file server; MSMAIL.MMF file created on each workstation


Going Beyond Electronic Mail

Groupware

	Lotus Notes	

	Microsoft Schedule+

	WP Office

Chapter 4 - Using File Servers

Getting an Overview of File Servers

Learning what a File Server Does

Sharing Disk Space and Files

	Prevents File-sharing collisions


Sharing Printer (Maybe controlled by a separate print server)


Understanding the Components of a File Server

dedicated computer (requires speed, fast and large hard disk, lots of RAM)

	PC-Based Servers

	Superservers (AlphaStation, RS/6000, Pentium Pro System), Minicomputer or 	
	Mainframe (Client/Server environment)

Tape backup and/or optical storage

RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Drives)

UPS

High-Speed NIC

Network Operating System Server Software

	Server-based vs. Peer-to-peer


Looking at Criteria for a File Server

	fast access to files on the server

	high capacity for holding files for multiple users

	security

	reliablity

	(connectibility)


Understanding the Server Hardware


Evaluating Hardware Reliability

	CPU and hard disk must be reliable and high quality

	should have a regular maintenance schedule

	must have UPS to protect electricity supply


Evaluating the File Server Hard Disk

	must be large, fast and reliable


	evaluating disk speed

		recording method (MFM, RLL, ESDI, SCSI)

		type and on-board intelligence of the controller

		type of hard disk

		interleave factor

		location of files on the disk

			data transfer rate < 180K/sec

			average seek time < 6 to 20 milliseconds


	evaluating disk capacity

		IDE usually limited to 2 (SCSI less limiting)

		at least 50M for each user

		encourage users to use local hard drives for non-shared applications

		don't buy diskless workstations

		prevent games on server

		set up a "retention period" for files

		houseclean regularly

		(consider optical drives as an alternative)


	evaluating file server CPU

		depends on NOS

		should be fast


	evaluating server RAM

		depends on NOS

		should be lots and fast


	evaluating NIC

		should be fast with on-board memory


	evaluating server's power supply

		should be sufficient

		keep fans clean


Understanding the Server Software

	provides connectivity

	honors requests from workstation


Logging in

	on Netware: change to drive letter F: and run LOGIN.EXE

	on NT: press CTRL-ALT-DEL and then enter user-id and password

	on UNIX: enter user-id and password

	once logged in, your profile for that server is set


Mapping Drive (redirection) 

	on Netware: run MAP.EXE to assign drive letters to shared drives (usually done in login script)

	on NT: drive letters assigned automatically

	on UNIX: logged into own directory


Accessing and Sharing Files

	depends on access control rights usually includes private, group and public access


Accessing the LAN Printer

	must redirect one of printer ports (LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3) to the network printer

	Netware uses CAPTURE

	NT uses PrintManager

	spooler receives print jobs as LAN messages and stores them in a temp file and prints the
jobs in the order that they were queued

	print jobs should reset printer (font, modes, etc.)


Ensuring Server Security

	all users must have unique user-ids and passwords (kept in bindery or registry)

	remove guest ids & common passwords

	grant access rights to users and groups


Assigning the Network Administrator

	supervisor / administrator / super user


* Creating New Users (ID, password, rights, home directory) **remove unused accounts**

* Mapping Drive Letters

* Tracking Disk Space

* Fixing Failed Server

* Changing Server Configuration


Comparing Server-Based LANs and Peer LANs

* Loaning a file to someone

* Sharing a printer

* Managing your files

* Security


Understanding Client/Server Architecture

	integration and sharing of one or more applications across a network


Understanding Database Servers

	serves up database records to applications on other workstations


Using an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

	contains inverter that turns DC power from batteries into AC for the computer

	batteries continuously charged

	standby power system (SPS) - transfers from AC to DC during outage


Understanding how the UPS and Server Work Together

	NOS monitors UPS via a serial connection 

Chapter 5 - Using Protocols, Cables and Adapters
Examining Protocols, Frames, and Communications
adapter(NIC) -sends/receives messages among the LAN components
cable - carries the message
protocol - rules for transmitting messages

frames - message packets

types of frames:
* open communications session with another adapter
* send data
* acknowledge receipt of a data frame
* broadcast a message to other adapters
* close a communications session

SENDER ID
DEST ID
FRAME TYPE
DATA/MESSAGE
CRC

basic layout of a frame

Using Frames that Contain Other Frames

DATA / MESSAGE

		|
HEADER 1	DATA / MESSAGE	TRAILER 1

						|
HEADER 1	HEADER 2	DATA / MESSAGE	TRAILER 1	TRAILER 2

Frame layers

Using Frames and Files

workstation NOS software (as a TSR) intercepts file I/O operation and converts it into a LAN message and adds its own information to the frame and hands it to the adapter
WORKSTATION							FILE SERVER
		|					
		|								|
	DOS FILE REQUEST					LAN FILE REQUEST
		|								|
	REDIRECTED                        <-------------------------->
        	FILE 	REQUESTS
	(MESSAGES)

		|
		|

Using the OSI Model
Open System Interconnection Model (OSI) developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO)
Layer 1 (The Physical Link)
 - voltages, physical circuitry, timing, wiring, uses EIA-232-D interface standard and V.24 & V.28 standards



Layer 2 (The Data Link)
 - transmission of charactes and their sequencing
	checks for errors in transmission	
	breaks message into frames
	holds data in buffers if devices have different speeds
	subdivided into Media Access Control (MAC) and Logical Link Control (LLC) layers
	MAC - dekas with network access (token-passing / collision sensing)
	LLC - sends / receives user data messages



Layer 3 (Network Layer)
 - defines message addressing & routing methods
	routes communications by most logical path
	burstiness problem - gaps in communication
	packet switching 
	Virtual mode - packets are held until all packets are received
	Datagram mode - user is responsible for reordering packets



Layer 4 (Transport Layer) 
- establishes protocols and controls and provides data security controls sequencing of packets (resides in host)



Layer 5 (Session Layer)
 - sets up resources, coordinates equipment, handles transfer of files, recognizes users; sets priorities; supports creation / termination of sessions



Layer 6 (Presentation Layer)
 - handles formatting and display of information



Layer 7 (Application Layer)
 - focuses on end-user needs 




Using Low-Level Protocols

IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet) - collision sensing 
IEEE 802.5 (Token Ring) - token passing
ARCNet - token passing
Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) - fast token passing

Using Ethernet
CSMA/CD - Carrier-Sense Multiple-Access / Collision Detection
Data broadcast at 10Mbps usually bus-topology
standard based on research at Xerox Palo Alto Research Center in 1975
802.3 distinguishes between MAC and LLC; true Ethernet doesn't; types and lengths of fields in a frame are also different; published in 1985 

Using Ethernet Frames

Preamble	Destination	Source	Type	Data	CRC

	8		6		6		2		46-1500		4

Preamble = 10101010....10101011
Destination - if leftmost bit = 0, use unique address (1rst 3 bytes assigned by Xerox, last assigned locally); if leftmost bit = 1, broadcast
Source - leftmost bit = 0
Type - type of higher level protocol associated with this frame; assigned by Xerox
CRC - cyclic redundancy checksum remainder

Using IEEE 802.3 Frames

Preamble	SFD	Dest.	Source	Length	Data	Pad	CRC

	7		1	2 or 6	2 or 6		2	  0-1500	?		4
Preamble - all 10101010
Start Frame Delimiter - 10101011
Destination - 10Base5 uses 6-byte addresses; leftmost bit (individual/group bit); if 6-byte address, next bit is universally/locally bit
Source - leftmost bit = 0
Length - length of data
Data -  if less than 46 bytes, pad is expanded to total 46 byte minimum

Using Token Ring
workstations and file server connected in "ring" fashion using a MSAU (multistation access unit)
IBM Token Ring operates at 4 or 16 mbps

Using Token Ring Frames
	
	TMS380 chipset developed by IBM & TI implements the IEEE 802.5 standards for the Physical & Data Link layers of the OSI model

The Token
Start Delimiter (1 byte)	Access Control (1 byte)
PPP T M RRR	End Delimiter (1 byte)


P - priority bits	T - token bit	M - monitor bit	R - reservation bit

The Data Frame
|-----Start Frame Sequence--|					    |-End Frame Sequence-|
SD	AC	FC	DA	SA	DATA	FCS	ED	FS


DA - Destination Address		SA - Source Address
SD - Start Delimiter			AC - Access Control	FC - Frame Control
FCS - Frame Check Sequence	ED - End Delimiter		FS - Frame Status

The Abort Sequence
Start Delimiter (1 byte)	End Delimiter (1 byte)


Using the Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)
100 mbps; similar to IEEE 802.5 (Token Ring)
4 bits of data sent using 5 bits of transmission

The Token
Preamble (8)	SD (1)	FC (1) 	ED (1)	FS 


The FDDI Frame
Preamble	SD	FC	DA	SA	INFO	FCS	ED	FS


NOS Control of Network Adapters


ODI - developed by Novell & Apple; uses NET.CFG to configure network drivers
NDIS - developed by 3COM & Microsoft; uses PROTOCOL.INI to configure drivers

[Media Access Control name or protocol name]
	Drivername=
	Bindings=
	keyword= value

Using Midlevel Protocols(Layers 4-7)

NetBIOS, NetBEUI(NetBIOS Extended User Interface), IPX/SPX, TCP/IP (Transport Layer)


 	Initializing communications 

	protocol identifies workstation by name and/or number (for file redirection and applications) 
	activates point-to-point communications
	type of dialog identified -- datagram (sends frames) or session (connection)

 	sending / receiving data

	protocol provides means for sending / receiving data
	determines length of message
	determines status of dialog (in case connection broken)

 	terminating communications


Using Datagrams and Sessions

datagram - message never acknowledged by receiver; each datagram stands on its own
session - logical connection between two workstations (message guaranteed)


Using NetBIOS

Name support - each workstation identified by name maintained in a table
Session support - point-to-point connection established between 2 names
Datagram support - message sent to a name or group of names
Adapter/session status - information about NICs and currently active sessions


Using IPX/SPX

IPX (internetwork packet exchange) - datagram-oriented protocol used for file-redirection (OSI Network Layer) - performs addressing, routing, switching of packets
Netware uses to send/receive packets from server (requires an acknowledgement)

SPX (sequenced packet exchange) - session-level, connection-oriented protocol
establishes connection, then transmits messages (guaranteed received & in order)
(OSI Transport & Session layers) - sits on top of IPX



Using TCP/IP

IP (Internet Protocol) - provides datagram communications
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - provides point-to-point session communications
Telnet, FTP, SMTP lie on top of TCP
NFS & AIX Access provide for file redirection


GOSIP - Government OSI Profile

Using Named Pipes
pipe - stream of data between two programs (i.e. \PIPE\path\name.ext)
used by OS/2

Using File-Redirection Protocols
Using Server Message Blocks(SMBs)
	used by LAN Server & LAN Manager to intercept application's file I/O and pass it to the file server
	four categories: session control, file access, print service, messages

Using Netware Core Protocol (NCP)
	uses a shell program (NETX.COM)

Using LAN Cables
Using Twisted Pair Cable
	UTP & STP

Using Coaxial Cable
	thin & thick Ethernet

Using Fiber Optic Cable

Using IBM Cabling System
	used in Token Ring networks



Type 1 data cable - copper-based (2 twisted pairs) shielded
Type 2 data & telephone cable - (6 twisted pairs)
Type 3 telephone twisted pair cable - (4 twisted pairs) unshielded
Type 5 fiber optic cable (2 multimode fibers)
Type 6 patch panel cable (2 twisted pairs)
Type 8 undercarpet cable (2 twisted pairs)
Type 9 low-cost plenum cable (2 twisted pairs)


Using AT&T Premises Distribution System
mainly UTP

Using DECconnect
uses thinnet; satellite closet as an Ethernet backbone with taps

Connecting the Cables
Token-Ring uses multistation access units (MSAU) with 8 ports & Ring-In(RI) and Ring-out(RO)

Ethernet <= five 500-meter segments & <= 4 repeaters

Network Adapter	 Cable Type	           Max. Length	Min. Length	# computers
Ethernet	 Thin	                       185 meters	50 cm.	            30
	             Thick(drop)	            50 meters	2.5 meters	100
	             Thick(backbone)	500 meters	2.5 meters	
	             UTP	                        100 meters	2.5 meters	
Token Ring	STP	                        100 meters	2.5 meters	260
	            UTP	                        40 meters	2.5 meters	72


Using Network Adapters

8 bit vs. 16 bit vs. 32 bit; ISA, EISA & PCI bus
transmission speed
amount of on-board memory for buffering frames & data
compatibility with various CPU chipsets
bus speedDMA usage
IRQ & I/O port addressing
on-board intelligence
ST connectors for fiber, BNC connectors for coaxial, DB-9 connectors for STP



	data transfer - between RAM and adapter card via DMA, shared memory 
	buffering - accesses frame; manages data rate differences between PC & network
	frame formation - chunks data (Ethernet 1.5K; Token Ring 4K) adapter provides/removes frame header and trailer (Physical layer's envelope)
	Cable access - CSMA/CD or token-passing
	parallel / serial conversion
	encoding/decoding - represents 1s & 0s as changes in polarity (Manchester encoding)
	sending/receiving impulses



Repeaters

Routers

Gateways	used to connect a LAN to non-LAN networks

Bridges	used to connect 2 or more dissimilar LANs (protocol independent but hardware specific)



Designing Networks for Las Vegas Schools

Techniques for gathering Additonal Information
 	Interviewing

	open-ended vs. close-ended questions
	primary vs. secondary questions
	funnel format
	inverted funnel format
	psychology of interviewing
	Customizing Questions by Developing Preinterview Profiles
	Recording and Evaluating the Interview

  	Observing

Getting Ready

 	Identify and define what is going to be observed
 	Estimate the length of time this observation will require
 	Secure proper management approval
 	Explain to the parties being observed what will be done and why

Conducting the Observation
 - analyst should 

 	become familar with surroundings and components
 	periodically note the time
 	note what is observed as specifically as possible
 	refrain from making qualitative / value-judgement comments
 	show proper courtesy and observe safety regulations
	Document and Organize Observation Notes


Concluding Systems Analysis and Communication the Findings

	give feedback to persons interviewed or observed
	verify findings with user personnel

Report (for users, general and system management & steering comm.)

	Reasons and Scope of Systems Analysis
	List of Major Problems Identified
	Complete Statement and Definition of User Requirements
	List of Critical Assumptions
	Recommendations


A) Steps in Designing Networks
 

      Segment the Enterprise (by geography, department, building, floor)	
      Create a Model LAN for each segment
 	Evaluate the LANs to Determine if they are approriate for each segment
 	Interconnect Network Segments (Repeaters, Bridges, Routers, Gateways)
	
B) Networking Elements

 	Transmission media: Twisted Pair, Coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, microwave
 	Transmission signals: analog vs. digital
 	Transmission modes: simplex, half duplex, full duplex
 	Network Topologies (star, bus, ring, mesh, tree)
 	Network Interface Cards
 	Network Servers
 	Network Operating Systems (Novell, WFWG, Banyan Vines)
 	Modems
 	Protocols - OSI, TCP/IP, SNA
	
C) Types of Transmission Cables

 	Twisted Pair (STP & UTP)
 	Coaxial (10Base2 & 10Base5)

		choose best cable for the job
		avoid impedance mismatches

 	Fiber
 
D) Designing LANs

	Token Ring (4-16 Mbps with STP or 100 Mbps with FDDI)
		requires MAU (multistation access units)
	Ethernet (CSMA/CD)

Premises Distribution System(PDS) - structured cable design method

 	Vertical Backbone Subsystem
 	Horizontal Backbone Wiring Subsystem
 	Work Location Wiring Subsystem
 	Adminstrative Subsystem
 	Campus Subsystem

Connecting LANs -  (Repeaters, Bridges, Routers, Gateways)
Chapter 6 - Using Workstations

Using DOS-Based Computers

Drive Letters
MAP G:=SYS:\USERS\WAYNE
LASTDRIVE=Z

LAN Printer
need to redirect output to a LAN printer 
NETWARE: CAPTURE NT NFF NOTIFY T1=10 NB Q=LASERJET
NET PRINT    Displays information about print queues and controls print jobs.

Network Commands and Utilities
(DOS/WINDOWS)
NET CONFIG   Displays your current workgroup settings.
NET DIAG     Runs the Microsoft Network Diagnostics program to display diagnostic information about your network.
NET HELP     Provides information about commands and error messages.
NET INIT     Loads protocol and network-adapter drivers without binding them to Protocol Manager.  
NET LOGOFF   Breaks the connection between your computer and the shared resources to which it is connected.
NET LOGON    Identifies you as a member of a workgroup.
NET PASSWORD Changes your logon password.
NET START    Starts services.
NET STOP     Stops services.
NET TIME     Displays the time on or synchronizes your computer's clock with the clock on a Microsoft Windows for Workgroups, Windows NT, Windows 95, or NetWare time server.
NET USE      Connects to or disconnects from a shared resource or displays information about connections.
NET VER      Displays the type and version number of the workgroup redirector you are using. 
NET VIEW     Displays a list of computers that share resources or a list of shared resources on a specific computer.

(NETWARE)
CAPTURE/ENDCAP Starts/stops printer redirection
MAP Assigns and redirects drive letters
NCOPY copies files
NPRINT prints files
PCONSOLE manages print queues
SYSCON/FILER/SESSION Manages users, files and sessions

DOS Commands and Utilities
Clients must be using the same version of DOS as the server
Many DOS commands do not work across network
Memory Constraints
network software usually loads on the workstations as TSRs and device drivers which often occupy the lower 640K of RAM

The DOS Path Statement
PATH instruction needs to be extended to include network paths
(max. length = 128)

New Files
NetWare requires IPX.COM, NETX.COM, NET.CFG, and SHELL.CFG

Using Diskless Workstations

Using DOS and Microsoft Windows
Windows 3.1, WFWG, Win95, Win NT

can place shareable files (.DLL, .FON, and program files) on server
.INI need to be on client

PRINTMAN used for printing

SYSTEM.INI needs to be customized for each user

Using OS/2 Computers
most network features built-in
supports multi-tasking

Using Macintosh Computers
System 7 supports peer-to-peer file sharing, Ethernet & Token-ring drivers, Interapplication Communication(DDE & OLE) and Apple event Messaging (client/server).

Network stuff configured in the Macintosh Control Panels (CDEVs)

Using UNIX Workstations
	has commands like RLOGIN, RCOPY, RWHO, TELNET, FTP, & SMTP
	uses TCP/IP
	Sun Microsystem's NFS (Network File Systems) can be used to connect UNIX workstations



Chapter 7 - Using NetWare
founded in 1982

LAN TIMES (March 4, 1996): NetWare = 42%, Unix = 25%, NT = 19%, OS/2 = 14%

Reviewing NetWare Products

 	expensive
 	complicated to install and administer
 	TSRs require 60K of RAM
 	requires a dedicated file server
	server administration must be done from a client workstation


Using NetWare Utilities
Some of the important NetWare Commands are:

BINDFIX: Attempts to repair defects in the bindery (Use BINDREST if it doesn't work)
BROADCAST: Displays a message to all users logged in
CAPTURE: sets up network print spooling by redirecting printer output to a shared printer
	ex. CAPTURE Q=BRAC-HP
DOWN: Shuts down the file server
ENDCAP:   Stops capturing printer output for network printing
EXIT: returns to DOS (must be typed after the system is "DOWNED")
FCONSOLE: Displays information about the file server (Menu)
FILER: Creates and manages directories (Menu)
FLAG: Displays or sets file attributes
LOAD: Loads an NLM (NetWare Loadable Module)
LOGIN: Logs you in to the network
	ex. LOGIN myservername/myusername
LOGOUT : Logs you off the network
MAP: Assigns drive letters to network drives
	ex. MAP F:=MYSERVER/SYS:
MONITOR: Displays the NetWare console monitor screen 
NETADMIN: manages the server (Menu)
NCOPY: Copies files on the network
	ex. NCOPY REPORT.TXT F:\CS535\REPORT.TXT
NDIR: lists files in a directory including flags and owner of each file
NPRINT: Prints a file on the Network
	ex. NPRINT myfile.txt
PCONSOLE: Controls the network printer (Menu) [used to see what jobs are in the print queue]
PRINTCON: Configures printer jobs (Menu)
PRINTDEF: Defines printer forms and print devices (Menu)
RIGHTS: Displays the ACL rights of the user for the current directory 
SECURITY: Checks the system's security for possible leaks
SETPASS: Lets you change your password
SYSCON: Console program (Menu)
USERDEF: Creates user accounts (Menu)
VREPAIR: Repairs damage to a network volume

[NOTE: ESC leaves a NetWare menu utility; F1 displays help]

A login script is a program used to set up the workstation's environment each time it is logged on

Mapping Network Drives
3 types of drives: local drives, network drives, & search drives
Search drives are similar to the DOS PATH facility

ex. 
	DRIVE A: maps to a local drive
	DRIVE C: maps to a local drive
	DRIVE F:= SERVER1/SYS: /HOME/WSUMMERS
	DRIVE G:=SERVER1/SYS2: /
	DRIVE H:=SERVER2/SYS: /APPS

	SEARCH1:=Z:	[SERVER1/SYS:	/PUBLIC]
	SEARCH2:=Y:	[SERVER1/SYS:	/PUBLIC/UTILS]
	SEARCH3:=X:	[SERVER1/ACCT:	/APPS]

Sending Messages to Others
	SEND "Meeting at 1:30 today." MAX, KEVIN, SERVER2/ALEXA

Understanding NetWare's Design Objectives
 	enables users to share files
 	NAC must include a device driver that implements ODI(Open Datalink Interface)
 	Server uses a proprietary file system structure (not FAT) which includes file tags

Understanding NetWare Security
 	requires login with username and passwords
		can impose workstation, time and account restrictions
 	trustee rights for directories and files (ACL)
 	directory and file attributes

Understanding NetWare Fault Tolerance
 	incorporates SFT (System Fault Tolerance) Technology: provides disk mirroring and disk duplexing
 	supports UPS monitoring
 	offers Transaction Tracking System(TTS) to prevent partial updates

Assigning NetWare Users
 	Regular network users
 	Operators - have additional privileges
 	Managers - can create / manage other users
 	Network Supervisors

Understanding a NetWare Workstation
software required:
	IPX - implements IPX/SPX for PC-to-PC and PC-to-server communications
	NETX.COM - shell/redirector that shunts DOS file requests by issuing commands to IPX


3 versions
 	2.x - entry-level (16-bit)
		works on 286+ with licenses for 5, 10, 50 & 100 users
		uses VAPs(value-added processes) for extra services

 	3.x - high-performance (32-bit)
		works on 386+ with 20, 100 & 250 users
		uses NLMs(NetWare loadable modules) for extra services
			including TCP/IP
			can use NFS to allow a UNIX workstation to use a NetWare file server
			can support Macintosh, OS/2 & OSI clients

 	4.x - enterprise-wide
		works on 486+, UNIX and OS/2 based computers with up to 1000 users
		downward compatible
		uses VLMs(Virtual Loadable Modules) for extra services
		can use Windows or Presentation Manager interfaces
		replaces bindery with NDS (NetWare Directory Services)
		better performance and security

One of the most significant differences between NetWare 4.1 and earlier versions is the way that it handles the servers' resources.  Resources in earlier versions were stored in a bindery.  NetWare 4.1 uses NetWare Directory Services (NDS) to handles the resources of all servers on a network.  NetWare 4.1 also treats everything on the network including users as objects.  The best way to manage the network in NetWare 4.1 is to use the NetWare Administrator facility run a Windows program.

Chapter 8 - Using Windows NT

History
1985 - Microsoft & IBM codeveloped OS/2 as a multitasking, threaded network operating system

Microsoft developed LAN Manager as their file server while IBM developed LAN Server
1991 - Microsoft & IBM split up
1993 - Microsoft released Windows NT and Windows NT Advanced Server

OS/2
Both LAN Manager and LAN Server run on top of OS/2
uses High Performance File System (HPFS) instead of FAT

Supports client/server applications (SQL Server, Lotus Notes)

NT Server Capabilities

 	Architecture Independence

	 	runs on Intel processors, RISC-based MIPS and Alpha
	 	parts of NT that are machine-specific are placed in a small part of NT called the Hardware Abstraction Layer(HAL)

 	Multiple Processor Support
	designed to support up to 16 processors (Workstation - 2; Server - 4)
 	Multithreaded Multitasking
	preemptive, time-sliced, priority-driven multitasking
 	Massive Storage Space
	can support up to 4GB
 	Centralized User Profiles
	uses the registry to store a user profile
 	uses NT File System(NTFS) instead of FAT but can read FAT & HPFS


Enterprise Networking Features

 	Event and Account Logging
	Event Viewer - System, Security, and Applications
	who printed and when, who's logged on, who accessed which files
 	Remote Access Services
 	Domain and Workgroup-Based Administration Features
	trustee-rights
	security access rights
 	Fault Tolerance and RAID Support

	 	database of domain security resides on domain controller with other servers available as backup domain controllers
	 	can support multiple network cards on one server
	 	directory replication for backup servers
	 	hot fixes (under NTFS) for damaged disk areas
	 	RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Drives) for combining multiple disk drives into a single virtual disk drive

		 	Level 0 - disk striping (increases speed)
		 	Level 1 - disk mirroring (for fault tolerance)
		 	Level 5 -disk striping with parity


 	Relatively Low Price for Server and Client Software
	Server = $600+; Workstation = $300+; Client License = $30+
 	NDIS(Network Device Interface Specification) Protocol Support
	similar to Novell's ODI (Open Data-Link Interface)
 	NetWare Support (first 5 services only with 3.X or 4.X and bindery emulation)
	 	IPX/SPX Compatible Transport (NWLINK) - simply a protocol
	 	Client Server for NetWare (CSNW) - allows users to access NetWare file and print servers and use many NetWare utilities
	 	Gateway Services for NetWare (GSNW)
	 	File and Print Services for NetWare (FPNW) [$100] - allows NetWare clients to access an NT server
	 	Directory Services Manager for NetWare (DSMN) [extra charge] - allows NT to manage NetWare servers
	 	Open Directory Services Interface (ODSI) - released in NT 4.0 (allows access to NDS)
 	NetBIOS, DLC, and TCP/IP Options
	DLC (Data Link Control) = (IEEE 802.2) - used to connect to mainframes and JetDirect cards
 	Macintosh Connectivity (uses SFM - Services for Macintosh)
 	Interoperability with existing networks including SNA and DECnet networks
 	Support for both peer-to-peer and client-server networking
 	support for distributed applications

	

Microsoft Enterprise Concepts

Browsing and Browse Servers

1. Static Service Lists 
	e.g. NET.CFG file in NetWare 3.X identifies the name of the server
2. Periodic Advertising
	e.g. NetWare 3.11's Service Advertising Protocol (SAP)
3. Name Servers
	e.g. Domain Name Services
4. Browse Services
	e.g. Microsoft uses browse masters (master browsers) - 1 for every 32 PCs

uses workgroups (collection of computers that share resources and share the same browse list) [no dedicated servers]
	NOTE: only shared resources will show up on lists by the browser (use $ to hide a shared resource)

Domains (Improved Workgroups)
domain - collection of computers that a browse list but access to shared resources is monitored and authorized by a primary domain controller

	1. domains have only one password to access resources
	2. password is user-specific and user-id is assigned by the net administrator
	3. users are granted rights and permissions
	4. users can be organized into groups



Single Domain Model
Master Domain Model - resources managed by different parts of the organization
Multiple Master Domain Model - for large (>15,000 users) organizations
Complete Trust Model - multiple domains of users and resources (decentralized but requires rigorous policies to manage)


Inter-Domain Security: Trust Relationships
used to safely and securely allow authentication and validation services between domains
(Established using "User Manager for Domains")

Windows NT Architecture

HAL - software component provided by the hardware manufacturer [abstracts the differences between different types of hardware from the higher layers of the OS)
NT Kernel - controls which threads are run on the system's processor(s) and provides synchronization. Dispatches interrupts and exceptions to the appropriate handler.
I/O Manager - manages all I/O for the OS.  Manages communication between drivers
Object Manager - provides rules for retaining, naming and securing objects
Security Reference Monitor - enforces access-validation and audit-generation policy
Process Manager - manages creation and deletion of processes
Local Procedure Call Facility - allows applications to pass messages to environment subsystems
Virtual Memory Manager - hides physical organization of memory from the processes

Executive Services
I/O                     Object              Security Reference               Local Procedure Call          Virtual Memory        Process
Manager	 Manager	 Manager	                   Facility	                      Manager	               Manager
	                                           Kernel
	                   Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL)	                                                        Kernel

	^			^								^
	|			|								|
	v			v								v
                                          Hardware


NT Security Model

C2-level

1. Discretionary Access Control: owner of a resource controls access to that resource
2. Object Re-use Protection: OS protects objects so that they are not reused by other processes [i.e. when a file is deleted, it can not be accessed or undeleted]
3. Mandatory Logon:
4. Auditing: possible to audit security-related events


NT Server Administration

User Management for Domains

 	Create, modify, and delete user accounts in the domain
 	Define a user's desktop environment and network connections (including logon hours and location)
 	Assign logon scripts to user accounts
 	Manage groups and group membership
 	Manage trust relationships between different domains
 	Manage a domain's security policies

File Manager

 	managing directories, files, and disks
 	viewing properties and attributes
 	connecting to network resources
 	sharing drives and directories [controlling access to shares, directories and files)
 	set and take ownership
 	set permissions
 	set audits for file and object access

Managing Print Services

 	print server - computer to which the printer is connected
 	printing device - physical printer
 	printer - logical printer
 	queue - group of documents waiting to be printed


NT Workstations don't need printer drivers
everything handled through Print Manager including share, permissions and auditing

Server Manager

 	view and track:

	 	users that currently have sessions on a selected computer
	 	resources open during each session
	 	how long a resource has been open by a user
	 	how long a session has been idle
	 	current information on open file locks, resources, and printers in use

 	control directory shares on remote servers
 	add/remove servers from domain
 	send messages to users
 	receive alerts from system
 	configure directory replication
 	manage services and schedule events on remote servers


Other Administrative Management Tools

1. User Manager - similar to Domain User Manager
2. Disk Administrator - create and delete partitions, volume sets, and stripe sets.
3. Performance Monitor - graphical tool for measuring the performance of your own computer or other computers on a network.  On each computer, you can view the behavior of objects such as processors, memory, cache, threads, and processes.  
4. Backup - graphical tool for protecting data from accidental loss or hardware and media failures.  It makes it easy for you to use a tape drive to back up and restore your important files on either the NTFS, FAT, or HPFS file system. 
5. Event Viewer - monitor system, security, and application events  in your system.
6. Windows NT Diagnostics - provides information about: OS Version, Hardware, Memory, Drivers, Services, Drives, Devices, IRQ/Port Status, DMA/Memory, Environment, and the Network


Chapter 9 - Using Peer LANs

Advantages

No dedicated server
inexpensive


Disadvantages

slower performance
become reliant on others' workstations
less organized


Using Windows for Workgroups
Microsoft Windows 3.1 + networking + e-mail + Schedule+

easy migration & installation
	uses NetBEUI

uses File Manager to share files
uses Print Manager to share printers

can be used as clients within Netware & NT networks

requirements:at least i386 with at least 4M(preferably 8M) RAM, DOS 3.3 & >25M harddisk

how to:

Sharing Files (options - Read-Only, Full, Depends on Password)
Sharing Printers (options)
Connect to Other Computers


Problems:

1) keeps passwords after connection
2) Gateways with 4X CD-ROM
3) memory required for storing connection table
4) where is the host table kept?


Additional Features
Microsoft Mail
Chat
Schedule+
WinMeter
NetWatcher

Using Personal Netware and Netware Lite


cheap - $99 / workstation
used in networks of 2-25 computers
uses Novell's ODI (Open Datalink Interface) standard & IPX
works with other versions of Netware by running NETx.COM
requires STARTNET.BAT file and a NET LOGIN
uses many of the standard Netware commands: MAP, CAPTURE, etc.
maintains audit & error logs


Using LANtastic

was leader of peer-to-peer networking
can connect with Macintoshes and Windows machines
later versions interface with Netware & Windows
newest version includes networkwide faxing
later versions require either LANtastic Ethernet cards or special drivers
sits on top of DOS so is not efficient for large systems
has own command structure
includes e-mail & CHAT features
needs 34K of RAM which can be all upper memory
easy to use & administer


Using POWERLan

fast peer-to-peer networking
can connect to UNIX, Windows & Netware
comprised of mostly TSRs using disk-caching


Chapter 10 - Using UNIX LANs

Defining UNIX, the Operating System


available on PCs (LINUX, SCO UNIX)
available on RISC-based machines, Workstations (Sun & SGI)
available on mini, mainframes and supercomputers


general purpose operating system (supports multi-tasking and multi-user)
uses TCP/IP for networking

Unix can be used as a DOS file server (NFS - Network File System)


Defining the Characteristics of Unix

developed in 1969 at Bell Labs by Thompson and Ritchie
rewritten in C in 1973
destributed to universities in 70s and 80s
evolved into System V (1983) from AT&T
BSD (Berkeley Software Distribution) 1980 supports OSI


contains a kernel - core of the Unix OS which contains service routines that create and manage processes, access and manipulate the file system

shell - Unix command processor - Bourne (sh), C (csh), and Korn (ksh)

Defining the Unix File System

ordinary files, special files (points of interface to the hardware), and directories
file names are case-sensitive
each file has a set of permissions
can use wildcards ?  and *


Defining Communications and Unix
	by modem or direct connection

Defining Unix-based Networks

natural environmnet for client/server computing (ex.  Internet)
clients can be PCs running, DOS, OS/2, Windows, UNIX or Macs
need to login with username and password (case-sensitive)


Essential Unix Commands


# - erase character					@ - kill character
exit (CTRL-d) - logs out
passwd - changes the password
pwd - prints working direcory (current path)
ls - list contents of a directory (ls -l = long listing; ls -a = list all files)
cd - change directory				mkdir - make a directory
rmdir - remove a directory
cat - concatenate (types contents of) file
pg - page filter (types contents page at a time)
who - who is on the system			ps - process status report
cal - displays a calendar				cp - copy srcfile to destfile	
mv - move srcfile to destfile			rm - removes file(s)
lp - dubmit print job to print spooler
set - displays the value of shell variables (used in account configuration)
path= - establishes path to be used by shell for file searching
stty - used to read and modify the terminal driver's internal settings and control character settings
chmod - changes the access mode for files (ex.  chmod 755 myfile.c)
I/O redirection = > <
pipelines - |
mail - send / receive mail (alternatives if installed are elm and pine)
vi - editor (alternative is pico)
man - manual (online documentation)
uucp (unix to unix copy) - copies files from one Unix system to another
uux (unix to unix execute) - lets you work with files on different Unix machines
uulog - prints a summary log of uucp and uux transactions


Using TCP/IP

designed for ARPANET
IP - provides datagram communications between nodes on a network (routes packets)
SLIP - implementation of IP for serial communications (only asynchronous comm, requires dedicated line, no error detection)
PPP (Point-to-Point) 
TCP - provides point-to-point guaranteed-delivery communications between nodes
UDP (User Datagram Protocol) faster but no guaranteed delivery
ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) - enables exchange of control & error messages
requires Internet address (ARP - Address Recognition Protocol & RARP)
4 1-bytes fields divided into 2 addresses - network and host
uses domain naming
names listed in /etc/hosts



TCP/IP utilities

FTP - file transfer protocol (anonymous ftp)
Telnet - remote connection
SMTP - simple mail transfer protocol
rlogin - remote log in
rcp - remote copy
rsh - remote shell executes a command at a remote host
ping - sends an ICMP ECHO-REQUEST to another host or gateway
traceroute - shows roundtrip time of each message to each hop
Kerberos - encryption system that validates passwords
SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) - [uses UDP] enables a system to examine and alter networking info maintained by other machines on a network (uses agents to receive information about a device and uses managers to communicate across a network)


Using Network File System (NFS)

developed by Sun Microsystems
Application layer that uses TCP/IP
provides client/server capabilities


Using Remote Procedure Calls (RPC)
enables software on different computers to inter-communicate
NFS uses RPC to redirect file I/O operations

RPC and Client/Server Architecture

each program module written in C 
each module designated as a server (backend app.  like calculations, report generation, and database storage) or client (user-interface)
programmer creates an RPC compiler script for each module which generates the C source code that "glues" the modules together


NFS uses XDR(External Data Representation) protocol to translate message packets for different types of computers
also uses UDP to send/receive file requests and responses

Using Yellow Pages (alternative to /etc/hosts)
YP - provides a distributed network lookup service
stores databases(maps) of information about users, groups, network addresses, gateways, 
uses ypinit to build the Yellow Pages server maps
YP used to resolve naming and address differences
sometimes referred to as NIS (Network Information Services)
Application	NFS, MOUNT, YP, YPBIND, NLM, REX
Presentation	XDR
Session	RPC


Other Unix Software for DOS

PC Interface - AADU (AIX Access for DOS Users)
POWERFusion & POWERServe


Systems Management in Unix


1) maintain user accounts: ordinary users, priviliged users (root, bin, su), restricted users
	access permissions (RWE, WGO)
	/etc/passwd & /etc/group files
	add a new user: enter in above files, create home directory, create mailbox
	delete old accounts

2) maintain the Unix file system
	/etc/update - updates disk data every 30 sec.
	mount & unmount directories (during boot-up and shutdown)
	mount - reports which file systems are currently mounted
	df - displays the number of free disk blocks
	du - reports the name and number of blocks in use for each file system
	quot - reports # of blocks owned by each user

3) performs backup
	cp - copies individual files
	tar (tape archiver) - makes and restores copies of files preserving the directory structure
	dump - copies entire file system (restor used to restore file system)

4) startup and shutdown the system (must be executed by root from the system console)
	/etc/shutdown
	should use wall (write to all) to warn all users before shutdown

5) maintain network

	netstat - provides information about network 

		-i interface stats; 
		-d data buffers stats
		-r & -rs routing tables information
		-s protocol stats

	nslookup - uses DNS to lookup IP addresses
	arp - views/updates ARP tables
	finger - views list of users logged on the network
	ifconfig - views/configures network interface parameters
	nfsstat - views stats on NFS usage and configuration
	ruptime - displays total time a system has been functioning and its current load
	ypcat - displays contents of NIS database



IV Expanding a Network
Chapter 11 - Using Network Applications

Defining Single-User and Multiuser Operating Systems


DOS - single-user




requires add-ons for file-sharing
can start network without going into WFWG using NET.
WFWG, Win 95 provide networking add-ons to DOS
Novell adds networking instructions to DOS, i.e. NCOPY
all require modifications to be made to CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT
often have problems with the DOS 640K limit
to share files, requires running SHARE.EXE



Assigning Rights and Permissions
Read, Write, Search, Execute, Delete


Encountering Deadlocks

Defining Characteristics of a MultiUser Application

LAN-aware software should support several application users at the same time
should support file sharing and record locking
should allow users to customize their interface
should allow multiuser printing


Learning How Software Behaves Differently on a LAN

uses user ID from the logon for the application software and to set up the configuration for the user
some applications expect to write information to the root (or some to the temp) directories

	need to insure that the user has the appropriate path
	Novell allows map root



Using File Sharing and Record Locking

Using Multiuser Printing

Buying Software Licenses for Multiple Users

 	Software for each user
 	Network Packs
 	Site Licenses
 	Copy Protection on a LAN


Chapter 12 - Managing Your Network

Science or Art?

Learning the Basics of Network Management

multi-platform
multi-vendor
LAN Management System


need a network plan

 	cable diagrams
 	cable layout
 	network capacity
 	protocol and equipment standards
 	workstation growth
 	new LAN technologies


Examining Technical Issues


most LAN activity (performance stats, traffic volumes, error counts, & accounting info)  can be monitored through the NOS (i.e. NT's Performance Monitor, et.al.)



 	Dealing with Common Mode Failures

		errors by the NIC (use cross-checks and consistency checks)
 	Managing Traffic

		bottlenecks often caused by hardware/software failures
 	Determining Robustness

		how does the system handle invalid message packets?
 	Testing the LAN

		how, when & where do you test?
 	Extending the LAN


Examining Administrative Issues

 	Managing Software Distribution

	 	prevent unlicensed copies & viruses
	 	ensure that everyone is using the same version

 	Helping the Administrator

	 	LAN management software should report results to the Net. Admin.

 	Discovering Problems

	 	software should report bad cables, NICs and other net components
	 	should monitor servers and gateways

 	Logging and Reporting Events

	 	peak network utilization times
	 	error conditions

 	Determining Operator Control

	 	should be able to query the status of devices on the net
	 	should be able to test the status of paths between two points

 	Managing the LAN's Configuration
	 	need to monitor the configuration of workstations including the software that is installed


Managing Access Control and Security
	advantages of diskless workstations

Defining the Network Administrator's Role

	must understand the network's configuration, performance, accounting, planning, security, and applications
	must have a collection of tools for doing this


Using the LAN Management Protocols: SNMP and CMIP

	SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) outgrowth of TCP/IP (mainly for Internet)
	CMIP (Common Management Information Protocol) part of the OSI standard


Comparing CMIP and SNMP

 	both bring network management details to the net admin.
 	both help the admin. diagnose problems, plan capacity and generate reports
 	both use MIB (Management Information Base) - set of controls supported by devices on the network


Contrasting CMIP with SNMP

	
Data Access

 	SNMP better at retrieving individual items of information while CMIP retrieves collections of information
 	SNMP is more focused while CMIP deals with classes of data that must be constrained


	
Polling versus Reporting

 	SNMP works by polling (central management processor asks each device for its current status)
 	CMIP uses reporting where the device reports if a change has been made (failed devices can't report)


	
Size and Performance

 	SNMP can be implemented as a DOS TSR
 	CMIP is more robust and needs more resources


	
Transport Layer Protocols

 	SNMP uses datagrams via IPX or IP and UDP
 	CMIP uses connection-oriented sessions	Protocol Standards
 	CMIP - uses OSI International Standard
 	SNMP - uses TCP/IP which is controlled by the Internet Activities Board


	
Assessing CMIP and SNMP Product Availability
 	SNMP is more popular ( more devices support it)

Choosing SNMP or CMIP for your LAN

 	SNMP better for LANs
 	CMIP better for WANs


Using General LAN Management Tools


average network is down about twice a month
average downtime is 1/2 day


Setting Network Management Goals

1. Reduce the number of network problems
2. Minimize inconvenience and localize the damage




ISO Standards
     

          
Category
          
Description
     
     

          
Accounting management
          
Records and reports network resource utiliziation data
     
     

          
Configuration management
          
Understands and controls the parameters that define the state of the network
     
     

          
Fault management
          
Detects, isolates, and controls problems on the network
     
     

          
Performance management
          
Analyzes and controls the rate at which the network can process data
     
     

          
Security management
          
Controls access to network resources
     


Types of network management tools

 	physical-layer tools
 	network monitors
 	network analyzers
 	integrated network management systems


physical-layer tools

 	Time-Domain Reflectometer (cable tester)

	Can tell length of cable, internal wiring, short circuits, broken wires, crosstalk
 	LANMeter & FrameScope (can test into layers 2-4) $4000-$6000


 		attach to live LAN to accumulate and display statistics on health & performance of the network
 		show frame counts including types of frames
 		can reveal excess collisions, late collisions, error frame counts
 		don't decode & display frames (only counts types of frames)



 	before connecting tool to LAN, you must know type of cable in order to determine the NVP (nominal velocity of propagation) & must calibrate the tester
 	you also must know the topology of the network
 	should test all cable installations


Cable Management System

 	database of information about the physical layout of the network

network monitors

 	hardware / software device that attaches to a network and monitors the network traffic
 	examines frame-level info & compiles stats on utilization, packet type, packets sent & received and packet errors
 	costs between several hundred up to $10,000


network analyzers (protocol analyzers)

 	used to track-down and fix network problems
 	does real-time analysis of packets (capturing and decoding)
 	may include test suites
 	can filter different types of frames
 	can inject extra traffic to simulate additional nodes
 	can show which network adapter is mal-functioning
 	costs between $10,000 and $30,000
 	ex. Network General Sniffer; Hewlett-Packard Network Advisor (includes Fault Finder Expert System); Novell LANalyzer


integrated network management systems

 	can monitor entire network from one location
 	addresses all five ISO network management categories
 	most expensive


Using the Tools

1. Know What is Normal (baselining)

 	What is the average network utilization? How does it vary during the day?
 	What are the primary applications on the network?
 	What protocols are running on the network? What are the performance characteristics  of these protocols?
 	Who manufactured the NICs, MAUs, hubs, repeaters, bridges, routers, gateways and other devices? What versions of software & firmware are they running? What are their performance  characteristics?


2. Observe the Symptoms

 	Does the problem affect everyone, everyone in a given area, or random individuals?
 	What percentage of time does the problem occur? Is the problem continuous or intermittent? Does it occur regularly?
 	What has changed recently? Has a computer device been added to the network? Have any internetworking devices been reconfigured?
 	Which vendor's products may have failed to produce these symptoms? What are the vendor and version numbers of the computer systems, NICs, hubs, routers, bridges, application software and NOS software?


3. Make a List of Possible Causes

	must know how each network component can fail and what failure can do to the network
	need to know how each component interacts with other components
	need to understand different protocols and network software and their roles


4. Isolate the Cause and Analyze the Results

Dealing with Common Problems
	Where do most network problems occur?

Practicing Performance Tuning
	use tools to analyze network-utilization and to identify heavy users and bottlenecks