I don't usually start with a negative, however, it will save time if you
realize that this backup utility is not for file systems, but it is for
configuration settings on hardware devices. Having cleared up that
the purpose of CatTools is to back up devices such as, Cisco routers,
Nortel switches and ASA firewalls, I can now move forward and encourage
you to try a
free download of CatTools.
The main benefits of these freeware CatTools are storing current and previous
versions of your hardware configuration settings, and providing a
central GUI where you can monitor information settings, and if
necessary, make changes.
So, here is Guy's challenge. If you download Cat Tools, then it
will not only take care of back up, but also it will show you something
new about your the hardware on you network. I could give you a
money back guarantee - but CatTools is already free! No, I just
make a techie to techie challenge, one of these features will help you:
Sooner or later something will go wrong with a router or a
firewall, but CatTools will send you an alert that keeps you one
step ahead of the hackers, or the users!
When troubleshooting, the ability to compare past and present
configurations will save time in finding the change.
One day the roll-back facility will restore a working
configuration and save your bacon.
Impress your manager, or cover your back, by distributing
reports (provided by CatTools) of how well your devices are
configured.
I'll bet that you will find another feature of CatTools that I
don't use, but will be just what you need. (Bulk Changes are
too bullish for me).
The download, unzip, and the program's install are truly easy.
Furthermore, if CatTools works on a 64-bit Windows Server 2008 machine
then you will have no problem installing on any current Windows 32-bit
server or desktop operating system.
Your only real setup decision is whether to run as application or as a
Windows service. I chose to install the Kiwi CatTools as a
service, and selected the default of LocalSystem account.
Incidentally, if you need to manually configure or restart the service,
it appears under 'K' for Kiwi and not amongst the 'Cs'.
CatTools is designed to back up configuration information about the
various devices on your network, but first you have to provide
information to the utility. The 'Devices' tab has a pick list of
common network hardware, you then fill in the details such as the IP
address, port number and connection method. The only difference
between the free and licensed version is the increase in the number of
devices you can monitor from 5 to unlimited.
Talking of devices over 60 are supported out of the box, and believe
there is a facility for advanced users to create a custom device.
I have heard of few problems with CatTools, the only glitches come from
upgrading to version 3.3.14 from previous versions. The solution
is to uninstall, and reinstall.
If you want something bigger, more scaleable than Cattools, then try the
Orion NCM (Network Configuration Manager)
NCM will assist you in creating consistent settings for routers and
other network devices with config files. For example, you can
ensure that only the correct firewall ports are open.
Not only
will you be able to monitor all manner of data vales, but more importantly,
NCM provides the tools to restore settings in the event that someone
makes a mistake, but you cannot quite pin-point the error. For
example, you can upload
scripts to correct problems with community string, passwords or other
device settings. See more on Orion NCM.
Summary of Solarwinds CatTools
In this review of CatTools I would emphasise that it really is easy
to download and setup. The benefit is that you will have peace of
mind that your configuration data for routers, switches and firewalls is
safely backed up. An added bonus is that through trying this free
utility you will learn more about the settings of your network hardware.
Here are tried and tested programs to monitor your network. Most of these
utilities are free, while other downloads
are the full program, but time restricted.
Solarwinds are a great source of free specialist tools. A constant
theme is a free gadget for testing, backed-up with a comprehensive suite for
programs for larger organizations. I like the way that big companies
subsidise their smaller brethren... until they become large companies!
Guy Recommends: Orion's NPM - Network Performance Monitor
Orion's performance monitor is designed for detecting network outages. NPM makes it easy to see what's working, and what needs your attention.
This utility guides you through creating network maps. It also helps troubleshooting by indicating whether the root cause is faulty equipment, or resource overload.
