Abstract: A network difference reporting method and system categorizes the differences between two networks, and provides an output report structured by these categories. The preferred categories include objects common to both networks that have different attributes; objects found only in the first network; objects found only in the second network; and objects common to both networks that have similar attributes. A user-interface is provided to allow a user to identify objects or attributes that are to be included or excluded from the identified differences. Preferably, the output reports includes a graphic display of differences that uses the same hierarchical object attribute structure as the networks, to facilitate a rapid understanding of the reported differences between the networks.

Abstract: A user interface of a device for displaying a representation of a network of objects wherein a plurality of selectable objects are rendered, and each of the plurality of selectable objects are rendered having a given positioning relative to each other of the plurality of selectable objects. One or more edges are rendered interconnecting the plurality of selectable objects within a first region of the user interface. A second region is rendered in response to one or more of the selectable objects of the first region being selected. Objects corresponding to the selected objects are depicted in the second region while maintaining the given relative positioning. A number of additional objects may be retrieved from a database that indicates objects that are adjoining the corresponding objects. The adjoining objects are positioned in the second region and are interconnected to the corresponding objects by one or more additional edges.

Abstract: A network difference reporting method and system categorizes the differences between two networks, and provides an output report structured by these categories. The preferred categories include objects common to both networks that have different attributes; objects found only in the first network; objects found only in the second network; and objects common to both networks that have similar attributes. A user-interface is provided to allow a user to identify objects or attributes that are to be included or excluded from the identified differences. Preferably, the output reports includes a graphic display of differences that uses the same hierarchical object attribute structure as the networks, to facilitate a rapid understanding of the reported differences between the networks.

Abstract: An automation engine is configured to automatically run network data collection, analysis, and reporting tools. Each tool is designed or modified to enable the parameters required for operating the tool to be read from a settings file. The automation engine is configured to provide the appropriate settings file to each tool to perform a given set of tasks. Tasks can be performed on-demand, on predefined schedules, or upon detection of a triggering event.