Logical Network Inventory is a detailed record that documents the characteristics and interconnections of logical network resources. It goes beyond just listing devices; it focuses on how these resources function, how much bandwidth they utilize, and how they relate to both physical and other logical elements within the network. According to available information, the logical network inventory records resource functionality, bandwidth, and relationships with other physical and logical resources.
Key Aspects of a Logical Network Inventory
Here's a breakdown of what a logical network inventory encompasses:
- Resource Functionality: Describing what each logical element does within the network (e.g., routing, firewall, VPN termination).
- Bandwidth Allocation: Documenting how bandwidth is allocated across different logical connections and services. This is particularly useful in telecommunications networks.
- Relationship Mapping: Tracking the dependencies and connections between logical resources and their underlying physical infrastructure (servers, routers, etc.). This helps in understanding the impact of changes or failures. Also tracks relationships between logical elements themselves.
Benefits of Maintaining a Logical Network Inventory
- Improved Network Management: A clear understanding of the logical network facilitates more efficient troubleshooting, planning, and optimization.
- Better Capacity Planning: By tracking bandwidth allocation, network administrators can anticipate capacity bottlenecks and plan for future growth.
- Enhanced Impact Analysis: Knowing the relationships between logical and physical resources allows for quick assessment of the impact of hardware failures or planned maintenance.
- Simplified Documentation: Provides a centralized repository for all logical network information.
Example
Imagine a VPN connection used by remote workers. The logical network inventory would record:
- Functionality: VPN connection
- Bandwidth: Allocated bandwidth for each VPN tunnel
- Relationships: Links the VPN connection to the physical VPN server, the firewall rules allowing VPN traffic, and the user accounts authorized to use the VPN.
Summary
A logical network inventory provides a critical layer of abstraction that complements physical network documentation. It's essential for managing complex networks and ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability.
