Asset Discovery and ACC: A Complete Guide for Implementors | Full Course | Live Class

[BillMartin]

ServiceNow Asset Discovery and Agent Client Collector (ACC) are critical components for IT implementors managing ServiceNow environments. Together, they offer powerful capabilities to automatically discover and monitor assets within the IT infrastructure. ServiceNow Asset Discovery captures hardware, software, and network components, populating the Configuration Management Database (CMDB) with up-to-date information, while ACC provides continuous monitoring and insight into device performance, health, and utilization.

This guide is tailored for implementors looking to leverage Asset Discovery and ACC to maintain accurate asset records, improve visibility across the organization’s infrastructure, and enhance monitoring. By mastering this course, implementors can streamline asset tracking, ensure data integrity in the CMDB, and proactively manage IT health and performance.

Overview of ServiceNow Asset Discovery and Agent Client Collector

ServiceNow’s Asset Discovery automates the identification of IT assets, from servers and applications to network devices. ACC, or Agent Client Collector, complements this by gathering detailed data from endpoints and providing real-time monitoring capabilities. Together, these tools help implementors maintain a comprehensive view of IT assets, supporting efficient asset management and informed decision-making.

Key Features for Implementors:

• Automated asset identification and tracking for the CMDB.
• Real-time data collection on device performance, health, and utilization through ACC.
• Customizable configurations for adapting discovery and monitoring to organizational needs.
• Tools for identifying and troubleshooting common issues in Asset Discovery and ACC.
• Integration with IT Operations Management (ITOM) for enhanced incident and problem management.

 

Objectives of ServiceNow Asset Discovery and ACC for Implementors

This course focuses on enabling implementors to:

1. Automate Asset Discovery: Set up and configure discovery processes to capture and manage hardware and software assets in real-time, ensuring CMDB accuracy.
2. Utilize ACC for Continuous Monitoring: Leverage ACC to monitor asset health, detect performance issues, and gain insights into utilization, supporting proactive IT operations.
3. Optimize Asset Tracking and Performance: Customize discovery schedules, sensors, and agents to balance thorough data collection with minimal system impact.
4. Integrate with ITOM Visibility: Connect discovery data with ITOM Visibility tools like Event Management for a complete view of IT health and potential risks.
5. Troubleshoot Discovery and Monitoring Issues: Develop troubleshooting skills to address common discovery and ACC challenges, ensuring seamless operations.

 

Six Key Topics Covered in the Full Course 

of ServiceNow Asset Discovery and ACC for Implementors

This course provides a structured approach for implementors, covering essential aspects of both Asset Discovery and ACC. Each topic is designed to be practical, with hands-on exercises that allow implementors to apply their knowledge directly to ServiceNow environments.

1. Configuring Asset Discovery for the CMDB

   • Implementors learn to set up and configure Asset Discovery to automatically detect and record assets within the CMDB.
   • This includes using probes and sensors, customizing patterns, and ensuring that discovered assets are accurately classified and mapped in the CMDB.

2. Agent Client Collector (ACC) Setup and Configuration

   • ACC gathers real-time data on device health, performance, and usage, providing critical insights for asset management.
   • The course covers ACC deployment, configuration, and customization, ensuring implementors can tailor monitoring to specific devices and environments.

3. Creating and Optimizing Discovery Schedules

   • Configure flexible schedules to control when and how often assets are discovered, balancing performance impact with data accuracy.
   • Best practices for running full vs. partial discoveries are covered, helping implementors meet organizational requirements.

4. Customizing Probes, Sensors, and Patterns

   • ServiceNow provides default probes and sensors, but implementors often need custom configurations to address unique environments.
   • The course covers customizing these components to ensure comprehensive asset detection, improving accuracy in the CMDB.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues with Asset Discovery and ACC

   • Identify and resolve typical challenges in asset discovery and ACC, such as network access issues, device compatibility, and data inconsistencies.
   • This section includes live troubleshooting exercises that provide hands-on experience with error resolution, diagnostics, and log analysis.

6. Integrating with ITOM for Enhanced Monitoring

   • ITOM tools like Event Management and Service Mapping work in tandem with Discovery and ACC, creating a holistic view of IT assets and services.
   • This topic covers how to link discovery data with ITOM tools, enabling proactive monitoring and faster incident response.

Practical Exercises for Real-World Application

The live course includes practical exercises where implementors work through real-world scenarios, such as setting up ACC for specific asset types, creating custom discovery probes, troubleshooting network issues, and configuring the CMDB to receive continuous data updates. The interactive format fosters collaboration and allows implementors to receive direct feedback from instructors, ensuring they leave with the confidence to implement Asset Discovery and ACC best practices in their environments.

The hands-on exercises are structured to help implementors address common IT infrastructure challenges and optimize discovery and monitoring configurations for seamless operations.

Implementation Tips for Success in Asset Discovery and ACC

1. Engage in Hands-On Practice: Using a test instance to configure ACC and Asset Discovery will help reinforce skills learned in the course. Replicating scenarios in a controlled environment ensures a smoother transition to production.
2. Document Custom Configurations: Implementors should keep detailed records of any custom configurations for probes, sensors, and ACC settings to facilitate easier troubleshooting and future adjustments.
3. Utilize ServiceNow Community Resources: The ServiceNow community provides valuable insights and solutions from other implementors, offering support and alternative solutions to common challenges.
4. Plan for ITOM Integration: Strategic integration of Discovery and ACC data with ITOM can greatly enhance the organization’s ability to manage incidents and maintain high service levels.
5. Complete the Full Course for Comprehensive Knowledge: This course is part of a larger curriculum that supports the complete skillset needed to manage Asset Discovery and ACC effectively. Prior modules or equivalent experience are recommended for maximum benefit.

 

Call to Action

Looking to master Asset Discovery and ACC for your ServiceNow implementation? Visit my YouTube channel,  , where I offer in-depth tutorials, live sessions, and troubleshooting guides to help you implement ServiceNow’s asset management and monitoring solutions effectively. Subscribe for free tutorials and live recaps designed to enhance your skills and provide actionable insights for optimizing Asset Discovery and ACC in your organization.

[User663678]

Please send link to video as does not work for me.

[BillMartin]

Hi @User663678 ,

The video file was unfortunately corrupted. I’m currently in the process of recreating it. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

[PavolHoles]

Hi @BillMartin, any update? Thanks!

[BillMartin]

apologies for the delay @PavolHoles , i will keep you posted!