Abstract: A framework for connectivity verification is provided. The framework includes a connectivity verification server performing unattended connectivity verification, and a connectivity verification application, both the connectivity verification server and connectivity verification application operating in a network management context. Connectivity verification jobs are defined via the connectivity verification application and the connectivity verification server is configured accordingly. Connectivity verification jobs can also be scheduled. The connectivity verification application also provides a display of connectivity verification results. The results of each connectivity verification job may be compared against a desired connectivity profile and deviations from the connectivity profile being used to raise alarms.

Abstract: A managed entity view framework and methods for obtaining configuration information, diagnostic information, and statistic information in support of operations management actions is presented. The method includes validating a managed entity viewing script template for execution on a target managed entity, retrieving target managed entity specific template parameter values, populating the managed entity viewing script template to derive a managed entity viewing script therefrom, and submitting the script for execution on the target managed entity. Managed entity viewing scripts are used to retrieve current information from corresponding target managed communications network entities whenever required. Upon receiving a trap at the NMS from a managed communications network entity, trap-directed managed entity viewing scripts are autonomously submitted for execution on the managed communications network entity to collect information for problem isolation and eventual resolution.

Abstract: A configuration change management system is provided. The configuration change management system includes a configuration information repository and a human-machine interface for interacting with field-installed communications network entities. Versions of communications network entity specific configuration information are stored in repository entries. Methods of managing configuration changes include: retrieving configuration information from communications network entities; storing thereof under version control in repository entries; comparing at least one retrieved repository entry from the repository; and configuration information retrieved from field-installed communication network entities; and submitting, for reconfiguration, of at least one field installed communication network entity, selected configuration information held in a corresponding repository entry.

Abstract: An improved network management system and novel management solutions are provided for OSI Layer-3 data network managed entities such as data transport paths and routers are provided. The management solution provides for a concise and progressively detailed presentation of connectivity information related to OSI Layer-3 data network entities to expose OSI Layer-2 and -1 provisioning equipment. Methods are provided for zeroing onto failed equipment using the progressively detailed presentation of connectivity information. Methods are further provided for interaction with OSI Layer-3 managed data transport entities to specify operating parameters. The advantages derived include an improved efficiency in the management, and troubleshooting thereof.