A hierarchical management framework for battlefield network management

Effective management of battlefield networks requires a hierarchical network management architecture wherein managers can dynamically delegate management tasks to intermediate managers. We describe a novel paradigm called the spreadsheet paradigm which extends the traditional flat SNMP management model to a hierarchical architecture. We present a spreadsheet MIB, language, and event model that is located at an intermediate manager controllable by a manager. The spreadsheet-based scripting environment presents an easy to use and comprehensive abstraction and interface to extend a standard management framework. We are currently applying this framework to problems in the management of tactical battlefield networks