We’re back with our blog series on network management. Part one outlined what to consider when choosing a network device monitoring solution. Now, let's examine how you can drive reliable service delivery and streamlined troubleshooting using the NetPath™ feature of SolarWinds® Observability.
What Is NetPath?
SolarWinds NetPath provides network path visual insights into network performance issues for on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments. It is a powerful visual traceroute tool that goes beyond basic tracking to provide deep insights into all your critical network paths. With NetPath, you can achieve faster resolution times by viewing all devices, applications, networks, and vendors in a single-page path analysis. This streamlined approach delivers more meaningful information and reduces unnecessary noise. It enables users to monitor every hop along their network paths and keep track of latency both in real time and historically. It essentially offers you a look inside the cloud. NetPath was previously available only as part of SolarWinds Observability Self-Hosted but is now also available as part of SolarWinds Observability SaaS.
“I'm a huge fan of NetPath. Since most admins struggle to visualize data for upper management, NetPath is the best thing since sliced bread.”
Verified User
Administrator in Information Technology
Financial Services Company, 10,000+ employees
How Does NetPath Work?
Imagine having a real-time view of how your network delivers data. With NetPath, that vision becomes a reality. You'll create a detailed map of network traffic, revealing the paths data packets take across the Internet and your network, providing insights into service performance, whether it’s your local servers, website, or third-party services. And NetPath doesn’t just stop at mapping; it quantifies the performance of every link and node, putting the spotlight on any components that might be causing slowdowns. Plus, its seamless integration with other monitoring and observability capabilities from SolarWinds gives you a comprehensive overview of both your on-prem and external networks. If an external issue pops up, you’ll receive in-depth information about the cause, helping you act quickly and effectively.
NetPath also automatically maps how your applications connect with end users, allowing you to quickly identify essential paths to applications or users and pinpoint any network issues that may be impacting users who are experiencing application downtime or slow performance.
NetPath is a way for network administrators to take advantage of:
- Better visualization
- Improved performance details
- Deeper insights into critical network paths
- Earlier identification of service degradation
- Accelerated time to resolution
Seamless Visibility Into Your Internal and External Networks
NetPath is a service that is part of SolarWinds Observability and can be implemented with minimum effort by identifying the endpoint of the path to be probed and the frequency of the polling. Once the NetPath probe is deployed, NetPath starts monitoring the selected path. Implementation does not typically require significant changes to existing infrastructure, making it an ideal option for organizations looking to bolster their network management capabilities. Since it integrates seamlessly with existing network management capabilities of SolarWinds Observability, NetPath allows businesses to enhance their monitoring capabilities without the need for entirely new systems or protocols.
As networks become increasingly complex and integral to business operations, tools like NetPath are no longer optional but essential. Its unique ability to visualize and monitor data paths illuminates the hidden challenges faced in contemporary networking. From improved troubleshooting and enhanced user experience to better capacity planning and security monitoring, NetPath lays a robust foundation for a healthier, more efficient network.
