To keep track of the network configuration, gather the information described in the following sections. This information, when kept up-to-date, is extremely helpful for locating information if you experience network or device problems.
A site network map identifies where each device is physically located on site, which helps locate the users and applications that a problem affects. You can use the map to systematically search each part of the network for problems.
The switch supports virtual LANs (VLAN). With VLANs, you must know how the devices connect logically as well as physically.
Maintain online and paper copies of the device configuration information. Store all online data with the regular data backup for the site. If the site does not use a backup system, copy the information onto an external storage device, and store the backup at an offsite location.
You can use the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and Trivial FTP (TFTP) to store configuration files on a remote server.
For a complete picture of the network, have the following information available:
all passwords
Store passwords in a safe place. A good practice is to keep records of previous passwords in case you must restore a device to a previous software version and need to use the old password that was valid for that version.
device inventory
Maintain a device inventory, which lists all devices and relevant information for the network. The inventory allows you to easily see the device type, IP address, ports, MAC addresses, and attached devices.
MAC address-to-port number list
If you do not manage the hubs or switches, you must keep a list of the MAC addresses that correlate to the ports on the hubs and switches.
change control
Maintain a change control system for all critical systems. Permanently store change control records.
contact details
Store the details of all support contracts, support numbers, engineer details, and telephone and fax numbers.