Network management software typically consists of a set of tools that are used to allocate IP addresses, monitor network connectivity, control network routes secure external network connections, and authenticate users. Many network management software systems also provide detailed change tracking and fallback configurations so you can quickly recover from network hardware failure and user error by a network engineer. Here are some important features to look for in your network management software package.

• Make sure the software supports standard network management protocols not proprietary ones.
• Select a package that can manage a large number of diverse network hardware.
• Look for software that can scale management solutions to accommodate any size environment .
• You want real-time reporting that also provides a graphic view of your network if possible.
• Make certain the software you choose has a flexible licensing policy so you aren’t stuck with more or less network management software than you need.