Network Instruments, PremiTech Tools Put Integrators In The Driver's Seat

Network Instruments Observer 10

Network Instruments' latest update to its Observer product line is Observer 10, a network monitor and protocol analyzer for Ethernet, wireless 802.11a/b/g, Token Ring and FDDI networks. This software-only solution for Windows-based networks uses add-on software modules called Probes to monitor specific situations. Solution providers select the modules of interest, giving them the opportunity to customize the product to their customers' needs. Out of the box, Observer can monitor single-segment LANs and/or 802.11 networks, and optional Probes enable Observer to monitor multisegment LANs, WANs and 802.11a/b/g networks. Observer monitors networks in realtime, and its built-in trending and baseline data collection system lets administrators view historical data by day, week, month or year.

Observer 10 is loaded with new features such as expanded data mining capability, centralized probe management and ready-made reports, and Remote Monitoring support for the WAN Probe. All versions fully support wireless 802.11a/b/g networks without the need for additional software. Wireless capability extends to site survey functionality, monitoring vital signs, gathering access point statistics, errors by station, channel scanning and more. Observer 10 costs $995 with a license for one PC on one LAN.

Observer captures Ethernet packets at transfer speeds up to 100 Mbps and captures Gigabit activity through a switch's span port. The software can decode TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, NetBIOS/NetBEUI, AppleTalk, DECnet and SNA protocols. A traffic generator and packet buffer replay enables stress testing and problem duplication. Triggers and alarms can be set to help flag specific problems. Virtual LAN data can be viewed independently or in aggregate to verify VLAN setups and determine if or when VLANs are in danger of being overloaded. Flow-based statistics are available for all speeds up to Gigabit.

Network Instruments' multitier channel program bases partner level on the amount of training and support integrators provide to their customers. All Network Instruments partners are entitled to free technical and sales training, a dedicated partner Web site with support and sales documentation, and joint sales efforts. Average reseller margin is 25 percent. Partners also receive lead-generation e-mails, mailers, joint advertising and joint trade show opportunities.

PremiTech Performance Guard

PremiTech's Performance Guard monitors application performance and its impact on networks. The monitoring solution examines server response time and maps hardware and software profiles of clients. The software provides a realtime view of services received by end users, allowing IT departments to optimize system performance, increase productivity, reduce infrastructure expenses and ensure compliance with service-level agreements.

Performance Guard is easy to install and maintain through a simple browser-based interface. The software uses a compact agent with minimal effect on the network infrastructure. The agents are automatically installed and distributed to client PCs using an included distribution tool and begin reporting to the Performance Guard server immediately. The server collects and processes end-user data, which is viewed in realtime through a Web browser. Baseline measurements are created for all data, and alarms can notify administrators of performance problems. Alarms can be established for specific applications, departments, offices or end users. Performance Guard costs $100 per agent.

Performance Guard integrates seamlessly with existing management frameworks such as IBM Tivoli and Computer Associates International's Unicenter TNG. The software automatically updates and monitors new applications as they are added to the infrastructure. It operates independently of any infrastructure changes, and administration is centralized. Agents automatically perform configuration changes when data is reported to the server. All performance data is stored in a database located on the central server, and the data is used to determine if a performance problem is the result of an application or a network malfunction. The software also performs load-balancing across multiple servers.

PremiTech's single-level channel program provides an average margin of 30 percent. The company provides pre- and post-sales support and joint sales call opportunities. Web-based training is available 24x7, and tech support is available 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

CHANNEL PROGRAM SNAPSHOTS
>Observer 10.0

COMPANY: Network Instruments
Minneapolis, MN
(800) 526-7919
www.networkinstruments.com
DISTRIBUTORS: Dealer direct
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>PremiTech Performance Guard

COMPANY: PremiTech Inc
Morristown, NJ
(973) 490-8588
www.premitech.com
DISTRIBUTORS: API Systems, Ciber, DABCC Inc., Datawaves, IPM Inc., RapidApp
TECH RATING:

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Note: Recommended status is earned with a score of eight stars out of 10