NetCrunch automatically (and periodically) discovers TCP/IP nodes in order to create an accurate view of the network and to draw maps of logical and physical topologies.

To make the network discovery process complete, the program is shipped with defined filtered views and preconfigured Monitoring Polices. Discovered devices are automatically classified and added to the relevant views.

Network Services

Besides discovering nodes, NetCrunch also detects network services running on them. Currently the program recognizes more than 65 network services and allows adding custom service definitions to be discovered and monitored.

ICMP & SNMP

The program uses both ICMP & SNMP (v1-3) protocols for discovering nodes. For a more accurate representation of the network, it also scans other network resources like Active Directory, Workgroups, and eDirectory.

Classifying Devices

Having scanned the network, NetCrunch determines whether the discovered asset is a server, router, switch, printer, or any other device. Version 5 introduces new node classifications to make the management more flexible.

Monitoring Dependencies

After completing the network scan, NetCrunch determines network relations between nodes and intermediate routers to set up monitoring dependencies for each node. Setting up the dependencies properly is essential in monitoring large networks spread across distant locations. Dependencies play a critical role in avoiding a number of false events caused by router or switch malfunction (event suppression).