[Users] New OpenSER Module: The SNMPStats Module

Hello everybody, I recently submitted a new module known as the "SNMPStats module" to the OpenSER CVS head. The SNMPStats module provides an SNMP management interface to OpenSER, and is intended for those who want better manageability of their systems. The module provides general SNMP queryable scalar statistics (useful for discovering system trends), table representations of more complicated data such as user and contact information, and alarm monitoring capabilities. The scalar statistics are very useful for discovering trends in the ways your systems are used. For example, using a tool such as mrtg or Cacti, you can collect SNMP based information over long periods of time, and automatically graph statistics. Some examples of good graphs would be: - The number of messages received each hour of the day. (Using the openserSIPSummaryInRequests scalar) - The number of active dialogs at any time of the day. (Using the openserCurNumDialogs scalar) These graphs may reveal that most SIP traffic happens between say, 14:00-16:00, and that perhaps it would be beneficial to change rate plans based on this data. SNMPStats alarm monitoring provides for a useful tool in maintaining system stability. Currently there are two alarms implemented: - Dialog Alarms: If the number of active dialogs passes a certain threshold, then a message can be sent to a network operation center. The idea is that an administrator should me made aware a system is becoming too heavily loaded before a failure occurs. - Message Queue Alarms: If the number of bytes waiting to be consumed by an OpenSER instance exceeds a threshold, then a message can be sent to a network operation center. The idea is to find out why the system is not able to handle the load, and to take corrective actions before a failure occurs. In order to get the SNMPStats module up and running, you'll be required to do some extra configuration steps that at this time are not automated. The full installation procedure is documented on the OpenSER web site at: http://www.openser.org/docs/modules/1.2.x/SNMPStats.html Since this is the first time the SNMPStats module will be tried outside of my work at SOMA Networks, there may be a few rough edges I've overlooked. I welcome all to take out their sand paper help me polish the module. All suggestions and criticisms are always welcome. Good luck all, and cheers! - Jeffrey Magder - SOMA Networks Inc.