Network mapping and visualization¶
With the Plixer One Platform (Core, Network, or Security), network teams can leverage Plixer Scrutinizer’s integrated network mapping functions to create and customize maps that are based on user-defined device groups. These maps are continuously updated in real time, allowing them to function as both a high-level view of network health and a starting point for investigating connectivity issues.
Overview¶
When creating a new map in Plixer Scrutinizer, users can select between Spatial Maps to fully customize the device layout or Geographical Maps for location-based arrangement.
After a network map is initially generated, it can be further customized/configured at any time. Existing network maps can be viewed from the Monitor > Network Maps page or as Dashboard Gadgets.
Spatial Maps
Using the following configuration options, Spatial Maps can be used to design fully customized topologies to meet different visualization requirements:
Position map objects against custom backgrounds to recreate office layouts, wiring closet connections, and more.
Add custom objects to represent non-Exporters, such as external hosts
Define connections between objects (devices, interfaces, and/or custom objects) to indicate static links, display interface utilization, or run a saved Report using the connected objects
Add custom utilization thresholds to connections to show overall network health and potential congestion issues
Nest mapping groups within each other and create multi-layered maps to support network segment planning and monitoring
Tailor maps to specific team role or workflow needs and manage access via dashboards and usergroups.
Hint
Bulk management functions for mapping objects and groups can be accessed via the Mapping Objects and Mapping Groups pages under Admin > Settings in the web interface.
Geographical Maps
Object positions in Geographical Maps are determined by their longitudinal and latitudinal coordinates. Both manual coordinate entry and address lookups via Google Maps are supported.
Hint
Objects can be assigned unique coordinates/addresses for every map/group they are assigned to.
Geographical Maps support similar configuration/customization options as Spatial Maps (except for object positioning and custom backgrounds) and can be used to enhance many of the same workflows. They are also ideal for monitoring the health and performance of geographically segmented networks.
Workflows¶
The following workflow(s) are examples of workflow enhancements enabled by Plixer Scrutinizer’s live network maps in the Plixer One Platform: