ADTRAN Launches Web-Based Network Management Platform, Including VoIP Monitoring

Days after creating a new program to reach more resellers targeting SMBs, a Huntsville, Alabama-based next-generation solutions supplier says it’s launching a new network management platform.

Officials at ADTRAN (News - Alert) Inc. say that with what they’re calling “n-Command MSP,” IT professionals will be able to manage and monitor their NetVanta and Total Access converged networking solutions remotely.

According to Tim Saunders, vice president of product management in ADTRAN’s enterprise networks division, the new $9,000 platform offers operational benefits and allows for the creation of new business opportunities for Value Added Resellers.

“These partners can now leverage the widely deployed base of NetVanta and Total Access converged networking solutions, as a means to offer enhanced services, and increase recurring revenue, all without additional headcount,” Saunders said.

Specifically, the Web-based platform is designed to simplify new device deployment and enables Managed Service Providers, service providers and enterprise IT organizations to deliver on Service Level Agreements, improve customer service response times, reduce network downtimes and monitor and report the performance of VoIP networks.

The n-Command MSP platform also helps network managers: view and report current and historical VoIP performance statistics; automate individual or network-wide firmware upgrades and configuration backups; simplify installation; improve asset tracking and inventory management; and monitor and report on the overall health of the network by location or customer.

Most recently, as TMCnet reported, the company announced that specialty distributors and resellers will be able to deliver fully supported solutions under the company’s new so-called “Value-Added Distribution” program.

According to Bob Meador, director of enterprise distribution channels in ADTRAN’s enterprise networks division, the program is designed to help resellers leverage the service, support, certifications and logistics capability of a specialty distributor without incurring additional operating expense.

“This allows the specialty distributor to bring added value by enabling the reseller to provide total solutions to their end user customer,” Meador said.

Now, with the ADTRAN n-command MSP platform, companies will have an easy-to-use browser-based Graphical User Interface and management dashboard. The tools are designed to allow for point-and-click operations for monitoring and management of ADTRAN network solutions.

The n-Command MSP system has been designed to be firewall friendly, according to the company. ADTRAN says its so-called “Auto Link” feature helps remote devices initiate pre-scheduled communication back to the n-Command MSP server.

That’s meant to facilitate communication across existing firewalls and ensure that networks are secure.

“The n-Command MSP system is compatible with NetVanta Multiservice IP Routers, Power over Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet Switches and IP Telephony products as well as the market-leading Total Access line of IP Business Gateways. No external network probes or agents are required, ADTRAN officials say.