Yet another free network tool
Several years ago, there was a really cool project called ZipTie. The focus of the project was to develop a free network utility that could backup network device configurations and store multiple revisions using as much storage as was available, kind of like CiscoWorks, but better in that it will actually work. I downloaded multiple beta versions and got it working in my environment through many trials and tribulations..
The project was run by a group of guys that were apparently working at or for Alterpoint because as soon as the tool became a stable, awesome product, the ZipTie webpage and forums disappeared and simply redirected everyone to a page at Alterpoint. Luckily they kept the tool free and it is available for download in multiple operating systems and even a VM image.
Granted, it doesn't do everything that Nedi does, but what it does do, it does really, really well - and that's backup all the configurations on all of your network gear as often as you tell it to, with a cool looking user interface.
Comments
How cool that you have
How cool that you have recently mentioned my two favorite open source network management tools!
We use both ZipTie and Nedi. ZipTie was developed by a team of about 4 programmers for over 2 years before it was discontinued. ZipTie is very powerful tool, I use it to make bulk changes on hundreds of devices in a few clicks.
Keep up with the great posts!
Tristan
RE: Router Backups
Looks like a good tool, also worth looking at Kiwi Cat Tools but Solarwinds. Again it is free and is a nice windows installer. Lets you backup device configs and also schedule config changes etc. Also emails you changes and gives you a nice comparison when a change happens.
Anyway, thought it was worth sharing.
I agree
Kiwi Cat Tools is awesome. I've used it for backing up configs for smaller client networks and it works perfect. I seem to remember running into their device limit when I used the free copy on a large network though. I know for sure NAI can handle nightly backups of over 1200 routers and switches. I never did get the change report to work properly though, maybe they fixed it in the most recent version.
Kiwi Syslog server is cool too, I've got that running 24x7. Definitely dig Kiwi tools.
Kiwi cat tools
This is another one of those tools that was great while it was independently developed.
I think I first picked up cat tools for about £89 a while back, not free but for what it does very cheap. Now since solar-winds brought them out it has gone up to £495!!
The one issue with cat tools is it does not audit only runs scripts against devices. However in all my years I have yet to find a tool that is really plug and play. I find they get you 80% of the way there if you are lucky, and then you end up having to add the rest and tidy it up by hand.
Having said all that I be downloading it for a play ;)
Cheers
Aaron