NetFlow is an open but proprietary network protocol developed by Cisco Systems to run on Cisco IOS-enabled equipment for collecting IP traffic information
NetFlow technology efficiently provides the metering base for a key set of applications including network traffic accounting, usage-based network billing, network planning, as well as Denial Services monitoring capabilities, network monitoring, outbound marketing, and data mining capabilities for both service provider and enterprise customers. Cisco provides a set of NetFlow applications to collect NetFlow export data, perform data volume reduction, post-processing, and provide to end-user applications easy access to NetFlow data. Cisco is currently working with a number of partners to provide customers with comprehensive solutions for NetFlow-based billing, planning and monitoring.
Cisco IOS NetFlow
Cisco IOS NetFlow efficiently provides a key set of services for IP applications, including network traffic accounting, usage-based network billing, network planning, security, Denial of Service monitoring capabilities, and network monitoring. NetFlow provides valuable information about network users and applications, peak usage times, and traffic routing. Cisco invented NetFlow and is the leader in IP traffic flow technology.
Scrutinizer
It is one thing to know that your network is up, how much 'overall bandwidth' is being utilised, but a completely different story when it comes to actually knowing how that bandwidth is being used. Plixer's Scrutinizer application uses existing Netflow, sFlow and IPFIX capables routers and switches to provide the critical Who, What, Where and When.
The data collection protocols Netflow, sFlow and IPFIX are standards for switched and routed network devices to send traffic data to a Scrutinizer installation for it to analyse and present this data in an intuitive and information way. By utilising the capabilities of your existing network devices, no probes need to be deployed, managed and maintained, providing a quick simple enhancement to your network performance and monitoring. Vendors supporting Netflow, sFlow and IPFIX include: Cisco, Extreme Networks, Foundry Networks, HP, Juniper, Nortel, AlaxIA Networks and many more.