What is OpenNMS?

OpenNMS is a free and open-source network management platform designed to monitor and manage large-scale networks. It is used to discover and map network topology, monitor device performance, and detect faults in real-time. With a scalable and customizable architecture, OpenNMS provides a robust solution for network administrators to manage their infrastructure efficiently.

Main Features of OpenNMS

Some of the key features of OpenNMS include network inventory discovery, performance monitoring, event management, and reporting.

OpenNMS provides a comprehensive network inventory discovery feature that can automatically detect and map network devices, including routers, switches, servers, and more. This feature helps network administrators to maintain an up-to-date inventory of their network devices.

Network Inventory Discovery at Scale

OpenNMS can handle large-scale networks with ease, making it an ideal choice for enterprises with complex network infrastructures. Its scalable architecture allows it to handle thousands of devices, providing real-time monitoring and event management capabilities.

Installation Guide

Step 1: Download OpenNMS

Before installing OpenNMS, download the latest version from the official website. You can choose from various installation options, including RPM, Debian, and source code.

Installation Requirements

Step 2: Install OpenNMS

Follow the installation instructions provided with the download package. For RPM-based installations, use the following command:

yum install opennms

Post-Installation Configuration

After installation, configure OpenNMS by editing the opennms.properties file. Update the database connection settings, username, and password as required.

Configuration and Customization

Configuring OpenNMS for Scale

To configure OpenNMS for large-scale networks, update the opennms.properties file to increase the maximum number of threads and connections.

Customizing OpenNMS

OpenNMS provides a range of customization options, including custom event handlers, notification filters, and reporting templates. Use the OpenNMS Web UI to configure these options.

Monitoring and Event Management

Monitoring Signals

OpenNMS provides a range of monitoring signals, including CPU utilization, memory usage, and disk space. Configure these signals to monitor device performance in real-time.

Event Management

OpenNMS provides a comprehensive event management system that can detect faults and alert network administrators. Configure event handlers to automate response to faults and minimize downtime.

Backup, Restore, and Recovery

Backup and Restore

Regularly back up OpenNMS configuration files and database to prevent data loss. Use the opennms backup command to create a backup file.

Recovery Runbooks

Create recovery runbooks to automate the recovery process in case of a disaster. Use the OpenNMS Web UI to create and manage recovery runbooks.

OpenNMS vs Alternatives

Comparison with Other Network Management Tools

OpenNMS is a popular choice among network management tools due to its scalability, customization options, and comprehensive feature set. Compare OpenNMS with other tools to determine the best fit for your network management needs.

Key Differentiators

• Scalable architecture
• Comprehensive feature set
• Customization options
• Open-source and free

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between OpenNMS and Nagios?

OpenNMS and Nagios are both network management tools, but they differ in their architecture, feature set, and customization options. OpenNMS is designed for large-scale networks and provides a more comprehensive feature set.

How do I configure OpenNMS for my network?

Configure OpenNMS by editing the opennms.properties file and updating the database connection settings, username, and password as required. Use the OpenNMS Web UI to customize the platform and configure monitoring signals and event handlers.