Best DDI Management Platform - Page 2

A DDI management platform is a unified solution that combines three core networking elements—domain name system (DNS), dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP), and IP address management (IPAM). DNS is the internet's phonebook that converts domain names into numeric IP addresses used by browsers to load web pages. DHCP automates the process of assigning IP addresses to devices within a network. When a device, such as a tablet or a computer, joins a network, it asks for an IP address from a DHCP server. On the other hand, IPAM refers to planning, tracking, and managing IP addresses on the enterprise network and the devices that use them. IPAM tools provide network admins with a real-time log of both used and unassigned IP addresses and automate the administration of various tasks in the IP space management, including writing DNS records, configuring DHCP settings, etc.

DDI management platforms help organizations in real-time monitoring and administering of their IP addresses, DNS, and DHCP services. These solutions also offer centralized management and network automation features that assist in tackling the growing volumes of IP addresses. DDI solutions significantly increase the efficiency of networks and reduce the organization’s costs.

To qualify for inclusion in the DDI Management Platforms category, a product must:

• Provide a real-time, centralized view of the enterprise network and its DDI data
• Provide a secure, high-performing, authoritative, and caching DNS
• Automate maintenance tasks and synchronize with the live DNS server systems and IP data
• Provide enhanced visibility into potential conflicts while updating data for one service or another
• Provide a complete audit trail of changes made to the DDI environment and generate reports for compliance
• Provide enhanced security, resilience, and support