The Importance Of Application Protocol Behavior Testing To Accurate Network Assessment
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Web Development.
The Importance of Application and Protocol Behavior Testing for Accurate Network Assessment
Awareness of performance issues in a large enterprise network can arise from various sources, such as monitoring tools or business user complaints.
Monitoring tool alerts often stay within the IT department and might be set aside for less busy times. However, with constant issues arising, that time may never come. These tools typically target alerts like "Server Down" or "Switch Down," overlooking subtler network problems.
In contrast, complaints from business users are high-profile and often require immediate attention. These concerns are typically discussed in management meetings and must be addressed, even if your monitoring system hasn't triggered an alert. Users experiencing difficulties impacting their work and livelihood won't be comforted by statistics.
A typical network assessment usually involves reviewing network architecture, bandwidth utilization, and errors?"all valuable, but somewhat third-hand information. Business users, however, have first-hand experience of how applications actually function over the network, utilizing both LAN and WAN.
Unfortunately, this perspective is often overlooked in standard network assessments. To address this, a two-pronged assessment approach is recommended:
1. Simultaneous Assessment:
- Network Architecture
- Bandwidth Utilization
- Errors
2. Application Behavior Analysis from the Packet Level:
- Use tools like Sniffer, Ethereal, and WireShark, along with various proprietary and open-source tools.
- Identify all delays, whether from the network, applications, servers, databases, operating systems, etc.
- Quantify data down to the byte and microsecond.
- Compare results with Network Architecture Assessment data.
- Review the inter-path of each application from switch port to switch port, and router to router.
- Evaluate network protocol behavior, transport times, and any TCP tuning issues.
This comprehensive approach provides a clear understanding of the root causes of network problems and offers a path to resolution. It is neutral concerning departments and does not assume the problem is purely network-based or application-related, while thoroughly analyzing both aspects.
All results are quantified and objective, allowing all departments to align on solving both technical and political issues. Often, the problem lies in balance, not solely in the network or applications. Viewing the problem from a narrow departmental perspective might miss issues spanning multiple areas.
This assessment methodology uncovers the truth, regardless of the problem's origin, and can offer detailed documentation and guidance for resolution if needed.
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