In today's complex networking landscape, organizations face the challenge of managing diverse network infrastructures while reducing costs and optimizing performance. This paper explores an innovative approach that combines the power of Cisco devices and Catalyst Center at the network core, with LogicVein's ThirdEye Suite (TES). When used together to manage edge devices, this approach offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for comprehensive network management.
IMAGINE YOUR COMPANY'S NETWORK AS A BUSTLING CITY
In any city, the downtown area is where all the critical business occurs, so it requires the latest and most advanced infrastructure. The suburbs are also important, but may not require the same level of services. That's the idea behind this innovative approach to network management.
THE CITY CENTER: CISCO'S CUTTING-EDGE TECH
At the heart of this combinative approach is Cisco's Catalyst Center. Consider it an intelligent city management system for your network's downtown area. It uses artificial intelligence (AI) to:
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Automatically set up new devices (in our example, this would be the equivalent of plugging in a new computer and using it immediately without setting it up).
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Manage wireless connections (for example, ensuring that downtown gets the best signal).
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Spot and fix problems before issues arise.
THE SUBURBS: LOGICVEIN'S FLEXIBLE SOLUTION
LogicVein's ThirdEye Suite (TES) also manages the city’s outskirts. It can manage both newer and older types of network equipment. TES can:
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Work with devices from any manufacturer, including Cisco
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Run from the cloud or on-premises
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Handle both large and small networks
THE POWER OF CISCO AT THE CORE
Cisco Catalyst Center (recently rebranded from Cisco DNA Center) represents the cutting edge in network management and automation. It leverages AI to connect, secure, and automate network operations, providing powerful capabilities for designing, deploying, and managing largescale networks.
Key features include:
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Auto-discovery and zero-touch provisioning
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AI-enhanced Radio Resource Management (RRM)
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Proactive issue identification and resolution using AI insights
EXTENDING NETWORK MANAGEMENT WITH THIRDEYE SUITE
LogicVein's ThirdEye Suite complements Cisco's core solutions by offering advanced Network Configuration and Change Management (NCCM) capabilities, as well as a Network Monitoring System (NMS) specifically designed for large enterprises.
TES provides:
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Vendor-agnostic device management
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Cloud-ready deployment options
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Scalability to manage up to 50,000 nodes
BENEFITS OF THE HYBRID APPROACH
Cost Optimization: Repurpose existing hardware at the edge, managed by TES. Reduce overall hardware and software costs by leveraging existing investments. Using existing equipment in less critical areas instead of replacing everything. Seamless Integration: As a Cisco technology partner, LogicVein ensures compatibility between TES and Cisco solutions. TES offers a comprehensive API for integrating other cloud-based network management tools.
Comprehensive Network Visibility: TES provides insights into non-Cisco devices at the edge Data can be synced with the Catalyst Center for a unified view of the entire network.
Scalability and Flexibility: Both systems can handle the growth associated with network expansion. TES's distributed architecture and multi-tenancy support cloud environments. Catalyst Center's AI-driven capabilities enable efficient management of core network devices.
CONCLUSION
The combination of Cisco Catalyst Center and LogicVein's ThirdEye Suite provides a powerful and cost-effective solution for comprehensive network management. By leveraging the strengths of both platforms, organizations can optimize their network infrastructure, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency, all while preparing for future AI-driven network management capabilities. Ultimately, it’s about being wise with resources and achieving the best of both worlds: applying cutting-edge technology where it's needed most while implementing practical solutions in other areas.
