Improving VoIP Systems Management, Slower Progress for Integrating Wireless

NetScout Systems, Inc. executives recently announced a new version of its solution for management of VoIP networks. In other news, wireless vendors are adding network management capabilities to their portfolios, but still largely lack the ability for heterogeneous wired and wireless management.

Focal Points:

• Officials from NetScout Systems, Inc. recently announced an enhanced dashboard to improve the management of VoIP systems. The company is combining features of its nGenius Performance Management System with Sniffer Infinistream, a solution it obtained from its recent acquisition of Network General, Inc. NetScout's VoIP Intelligence systems has enhanced graphics displays, which can offer a single view of all VoIP systems and how they interact with other systems on the network. The Infinistream captures all packets, so detailed analysis can be performed on VoIP issues such as call control, jitter, and the types of coding and decoding (Codecs) that were used for transmission. The combined solution also lets IT managers see what other applications on the network may be affecting call quality.
• A recently published article, based on interviews with IT managers, concluded that most companies will not be ready to use wireless networks as the primary domain for corporate traffic until wireless management capabilities mature. While many network managers use wireless local area networks (WLANs) to support end users, the vast majority of network managers have no plans to get rid of wired LANs. There are some distinct advantages acknowledged for WLANs, especially enhanced client mobility. However, most managers agree that management systems have a long way to go to provide secure, flexible, and integrated wireless management. 
• Most of the management tools for wireless networks come from the vendors who produce wireless networking gear. Among the companies that provide wireless network management technology include Aruba Networks, Inc., Cisco Systems, Inc., Meru Networks, and Trapeze Networks. There are some companies focused on wireless management, including AirMagnet, Inc. and Air Defense, Inc. However, dedicated wireless management vendors tend to be focused more on wireless security than configuration and fault management.

Experton Group believes management of wireless network environments will grow in importance and capability over the next two years. While the companies dedicated to wireless management will add wireless performance and fault capabilities to their security-centric arsenals, true integrated wired and wireless management won’t be complete until larger enterprise systems management vendors better integrate wireless management capabilities into the systems management stack. IT executives should push wireless vendors to establish better integration with enterprise systems management companies, and develop an integrated management architecture to complement the physical integration of wired and wireless networks.