Network Management Functional Specification

This document, the DECnet DIGITAL Network Architecture Network Management Functional Specification (Version 2.0.0, October 1980), defines the structure, functions, operations, and protocols for managing DECnet networks. It serves as a model for implementing Network Management software, enabling operators and programs to plan, control, and maintain both centralized and distributed DECnet environments.

Key aspects described include:

• Core Functions: Network Management provides capabilities for controlling (e.g., loading remote systems, configuring resources, setting parameters, initiating/terminating network functions like loopback tests) and monitoring (e.g., dumping remote systems, examining configuration and operational status, reading performance variables, logging events) network functions.
• Architecture: It outlines how Network Management modules reside across the layered DIGITAL Network Architecture (DNA), primarily in the User, Network Management, and Network Application layers.
• Key Protocols: The specification details the Network Information and Control Exchange (NICE) protocol, the Loopback Mirror protocol, and the Event Receiver protocol, which facilitate communication and management tasks.
• Network Control Program (NCP): NCP is presented as the primary user interface, allowing operators to issue commands for managing network entities (lines, nodes, logging) by changing parameters, gathering information, performing loads/dumps, and testing.
• Design Philosophy: The document emphasizes standardized commands, ease of use, network efficiency, extensibility, heterogeneity across different node types, and robustness. It explicitly states limitations, such as not covering full accounting, automatic network repair, or foolproof protection against malicious use.

Overall, the specification provides a comprehensive framework for the control and observation of DECnet network functions, offering fundamental operations for detecting, isolating, and resolving network problems.