Towards Fool-Proof Configuration Assessments

IP networks have come of age. They are increasingly replacing leased-line data infrastructure and traditional phone service, and are expected to offer Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)-quality service at a much lower cost. As a result, there is an urgent interest in assuring IP network security, reliability, and Quality of Service (QoS). In fact, regulators are now requiring compliance with IP related mandates. This paper discusses the complex nature of IP networks, and how that complexity makes them particularly vulnerable to faults and intrusions. It describes regulatory efforts to mandate assessment, explains why many current approaches to IP assessment fall short, and describes the requirements for an effective solution to satisfy business, government, and regulatory requirements.