Extension and evolution of existing network management systems over a seamless inter-exchange of host- and PC-based processors

The problem of keeping a network management system current with rapidly changing technology and still building on a stable established base is examined. One approach to this difficult problem-exploiting the beneficial cost-performance tradeoffs afforded by the new generation of personal computers (PCs) while building on the existing base of a deployed system-is studied. The functional areas constituting network management are examined and used to define an architectural structure and hardware base. The architecture defines a seamless interexchange of data between the host computer and the PC. This exchange must be realizable both in the dual-box (host and PC) configurations and for applications that reside in the same box as the host. Server/requester models are examined as building blocks in implementing the seamless design. Further issues on control, capability passing, and security are examined