There are three different types of network management software. Prospective users can expect to find software that acts primarily as an antivirus software. Software that allows users on the same network to exchange messages with one another internally is also common. Finally, there is software available based on server applications. A common network management package will contain at least two of these functions, though there are different programs for different uses and environments.
All types of network management software have the same primary goal. Each program's goal is to limit end-user contact. This means that the software is developed to consolidate entities such as files, drives, and messaging networks into one server. There are a number of benefits to this kind of computer network. Information Technology (IT) professionals find that a computer network not only increases security, but also allows for greater ease of maintenance, trouble shooting, and repair.
Common among the different types of network management software is the ability to monitor the network computers and the functionality of the wireless network. An example of a very basic and popular network of this type is Nagios®. This software enables IT specialists to find out about communication and connectivity problems before clients and end-users are even aware that there is a problem. While Nagios® was originally designed to work with Linux® systems, many professionals find that it is a good fit with all Nix variants.
OpenNMS® is an example of an increasingly popular type of network management software. These programs are easy to use and because they rely on the use of open-source software. This makes for a more affordable software that allows many of the basic monitoring and end-user computer networking functions. This type of software also has a strong and dependable system that notifies administrators of network issues.
Unlike the general network management software discussed above, some platforms are designed for use in highly specialized contexts. For example, Big Sister® is a software that is commonly used in health care environments. This software allows users to monitor the functionality of the network in real time, and can be customized to the needs of organizations that deal with patient information and other particulars of the health care industry. MRTG® is specially designed for those who work in commercial industry. This program allows users to track traffic through various connected networks and through various HTML pages. Users may track real time traffic, as well as analyze recent traffic data and history with a complicated graph system that allows users to compare two or more sources at once. The availability of such specialized network management software makes it easy for clients to get the most out of their platforms.