Out-of-band network management

Out-of-band (OOB) network management is a vital part of keeping network infrastructure running smoothly and troubleshooting when things go wrong. It enables management of network devices independently of the primary network, ensuring that administrators can access and control devices even when the main network is down.

Imagine you’re a network administrator responsible for the development, management and upkeep of a large, multisite or even multi-country network. Suddenly, your organisation’s PCs stop working, display a blue screen and fail to respond to the usual methods of revival. There is much dissatisfaction amongst the senior leadership as this appears to be an organisation-wide problem.

If you were managing the network using an out-of-bound method and had an unaffected computer to do so (maybe Linux or Mac) you could connect to every managed device and understand their status relatively fast. If the problem was not affecting the infrastructure hardware, knowing this quickly would significantly reduce the resources (time and money) needed to find an overall solution. The alternative would be onsite surveys, which would tie up staff considerably. Staff that could be working to revive all the unresponsive devices.

What does out-of-band management entail?

In brief, out-of-band (OOB) network management is the use of a separate, dedicated network path for managing network devices. Unlike in-band management, which uses the same network that the devices are part of, OOB management relies on an independent connection, often through serial ports, modems, or dedicated management interfaces.

Key elements of OOB management

1. Management consoles

These are central interfaces where network administrators can access and control all network devices.

2. Console servers

These devices connect to the management ports of network equipment, providing remote access, even when the primary network is down.

3. Modems and cellular routers

Modems and cellular routers are used for remote access when the primary network is unavailable.

4. Secure access

This ensures that the OOB network is secure, often with VPNs, SSH, or other encryption methods.

Unauthorised users do not have access to the OOB network channel because there is no connection to it from the main network, thus making it very secure.

Benefits of OOB network management

The top benefit of an OOB management interface is its availability when the network is down, or a device is turned off, in sleep mode, hibernating, or otherwise inaccessible. OOB management can be used to remotely reboot devices that have crashed and also to manage powered-down devices. The core aim is to preserve 24/7 uptime of your network by ensuring you always have access to critical IT assets like routers, switches, firewalls, servers, power, storage, and telecom appliances. Benefits include:

1. Reliability

OOB management provides access to network devices, even if the primary network fails.

2. Security

By isolating management traffic from regular network traffic, OOB management reduces the risk of attacks.

3. Efficiency

OOB management enables faster troubleshooting and recovery from network issues.

4. Flexibility

It supports remote management, thereby reducing the need for someone to be physically present.

How to implement OOB management

1. Assess your needs

Start by determining which devices and locations require OOB management.

2. Choose the right equipment

Select the most appropriate console servers, modems, and other necessary hardware.

3. Set up secure access

Make sure to implement strong authentication and encryption methods.

4. Test and monitor

Ensure the OOB network is regularly tested to ensure it functions correctly and monitor for any issues.

Typical applications

OOB management is used in disaster recovery to quickly restore network functionality after a failure.

Remote monitoring can be achieved using OOB management to manage devices in remote locations or hard-to-reach areas.

OOB network management is a requirement for security compliance, to maintain secure access to critical infrastructure.

Conclusion

Out-of-band network management is an essential tool for network administrators. It provides a reliable and secure way to manage network devices independently of the primary network. By understanding its components, benefits, and implementation strategies, organisations can ensure that their networks remain robust and resilient.

For best-of-breed OOB network management solutions, explore the console servers from our market-leading manufacturer Perle Systems. The company’s extensive range of solutions are ideal for organisations needing to establish network connectivity across multiple locations, securely transmit critical and sensitive information, remotely monitor and control networked devices and appliances.

With thanks to Keith Martin, Regional Sales Manager UK, Ireland, Scandinavia & Sub Saharan Africa at Perle Systems Ltd for his assistance with this article.