Network analyses – Definition and meaning

What are network analyses?

Network analyses refer to structured procedures and specialised tools for examining and evaluating IT networks. Their central aim is to visualise the structure, functionality, data flows and potential weak points of a network. The basis for this is the collection and interpretation of network data, such as communication paths, load profiles or end device connections. The information obtained in this way provides a sound basis for optimising processes, rectifying faults in a targeted manner and increasing both the security and performance of the network in a targeted way.

Typical functions and methods

Depending on the intended use, network analyses can be divided into static and dynamic approaches. While a static analysis primarily focuses on the hardware and its configurations, dynamic analyses record the current data traffic - for example with monitoring software or protocol analyses that evaluate ongoing network activities in real time.

• Packet analysis: Analysing individual data packets at transport, network and application level provides in-depth insights into the protocols, addressing and content involved. Programmes such as Wireshark make it possible to decode data traffic, assign communication partners and identify anomalies.
• Traffic monitoring: Tools such as NetFlow or sFlow provide an overview of the volume and distribution of network traffic. Typical areas of application are the determination of overload situations, the detection of conspicuous activity patterns or the early recognition of capacity bottlenecks.
• Topology visualisations: Mapping solutions can be used to graphically visualise the structure and networking of network devices. This overview makes dependencies, inefficient connections or possible failure points immediately recognisable.
• Security-related analyses: The evaluation of security incidents includes the identification of suspicious activities, such as port scans, denial-of-service attacks or data theft. The combination of network and log data in SIEM systems enables in-depth forensic analyses.

Simulations are also used to predict how changed framework conditions - such as additional network devices or customised routing protocols - will directly affect the overall system.

Areas of application and practical examples

In IT practice, network analyses are used in a wide variety of contexts. In fault diagnostics, for example - if connection interruptions, high latencies or inexplicable data loss occur, targeted analyses help to quickly narrow down the causes, such as overloaded switches due to excessive broadcast traffic or defective lines.

Performance optimisation is also one of the classic areas of application. In larger organisations in particular, regular evaluations are used to identify bottlenecks. Based on this data, resources, such as bandwidth for business-critical applications, can be provided in a customised manner.

Another field is information security: network analyses support the early detection of attacks or unauthorised data leaks. For example, a conspicuous increase in encrypted data connections from individual end devices can be reliably detected and promptly clarified.

Other typical usage scenarios include

• Checking IT infrastructures as part of audits and compliance checks
• Planning and designing new network locations by simulating load scenarios and topology variants
• Targeted troubleshooting in the backbone structures of internet service providers to localise routing or addressing problems

Advantages, challenges and recommendations

Network analyses open up numerous possibilities, for example

• Detecting faults and attacks at an early stage and initiating preventive measures
• Making complex network infrastructures transparent - including utilisation utilisation and potential weak points
• Better utilise existing resources and cushion peak loads
• Make investment decisions on a solid, data-supported basis

At the same time, limitations must also be taken into account. Complex network architectures, encrypted transmissions and large volumes of data significantly increase the amount of analysis required. Data protection considerations are essential, especially when handling personal data or using cloud services. Professional operation also requires appropriate expertise and suitable analysis tools.

Recommendations: Recognised tools such as Wireshark, PRTG Network Monitor or ntopng are ideal for a successful start. Structured monitoring based on predefined KPIs helps to recognise developments at an early stage and take countermeasures. Companies that carry out their network analyses regularly benefit from smoother processes and improved IT security. In addition, legal and organisational requirements for data protection and data security should be consistently observed in every analysis process.