Step by Step setup for Network Discovery

[aashi_gupta291]

Hi all,

I’ve been tasked with implementing Network Discovery within our infrastructure, specifically for the following types of devices:

1. Load Balancer

2. IP Switch

3. IP Router

4. IP Firewall

5. Wireless Access Point

I’m looking for a step-by-step guide to help set up an end-to-end network discovery process for these devices.

If you have any documentation, suggestions, or can point me in the right direction, I’d really appreciate your support.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Best regards,
Ashi Gupta

[Maik Skoddow]

Hi @aashi_gupta291 

please refer to my page Discovery You will find there everything you need for the first steps. 

Or follow this step-by-step guide to help you set up an end-to-end network discovery process:

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

1. Ensure ServiceNow Version Compatibility: Ensure your ServiceNow instance supports network discovery. Check the documentation for the version you are using.

2. Mid-Server Setup: Install and configure a mid-server if you haven't already. Mid-servers are necessary for network discovery as they act as a proxy between your network devices and the ServiceNow instance2.

3. Network Access: Ensure the mid-server has access to the network segments where your devices reside.

Step 2: Configure Network Discovery

1. Create a Discovery Schedule:

   • Navigate to Discovery > Schedules.

   • Create a new schedule by specifying the IP ranges you want to scan. It's recommended to use /24 IP ranges for better efficiency2.

   • Set the discovery type to Network.

2. Define Discovery Ranges:

   • Add the IP ranges for your devices. For example, if your load balancers are in the range 192.168.1.0/24, add this range.

   • Consider organizing ranges by location or device type for easier management.

3. Configure Credentials:

   • Ensure you have the necessary credentials (SNMP, SSH, Telnet) for your devices.

   • Add these credentials to the Credentials form in ServiceNow.

Step 3: Run Network Discovery

1. Execute the Discovery Schedule:

   • Once your schedule and credentials are set, run the discovery manually or let it run according to your schedule.

   • Monitor the discovery process to ensure it completes successfully.

2. Verify Discovered Devices:

   • After discovery, verify that all expected devices (load balancers, switches, routers, firewalls, and access points) have been detected and added to the CMDB.

   • Use the CI List view to check the discovered configuration items.

Step 4: Configure CI Classification

1. Classify Discovered Devices:

   • Ensure that each device is correctly classified as a load balancer, switch, router, firewall, or wireless access point in the CMDB.

   • Use the CI Classification rules to automate this process if possible.

2. Update CI Attributes:

   • Review and update any attributes for the discovered devices, such as IP addresses, hostnames, or other relevant details.

Step 5: Monitor and Maintain

1. Schedule Regular Discoveries:

   • Set up a recurring schedule to keep your CMDB updated with changes in your network infrastructure.

   • Ensure the frequency is balanced to avoid overburdening the system2.

2. Monitor Discovery Logs:

   • Regularly check discovery logs for errors or issues that might indicate problems with device access or configuration.

3. Update Credentials:

   • Periodically review and update device credentials to ensure continued access for future discoveries.

Step 6: Integrate with Other Processes

1. IT Service Management (ITSM) Integration:

   • Ensure that discovered devices are properly linked to other ITSM processes, such as incident management or change management.

2. Reporting and Analytics:

   • Use ServiceNow's reporting capabilities to analyze network device data and improve network management decisions.

By following these steps, you can effectively implement network discovery for your devices in ServiceNow, ensuring a comprehensive and up-to-date CMDB that supports your IT operations.

Maik