How To Troubleshoot Network Performance?

You should identify and resolve network performance problems so that your network run smoothly. If your network runs slower than it used to run (or slower than it ought to run), the problem might be that the present network traffic exceeds the level at which the network can operate efficiently. Most network problems occur at the OSI Physical layer, and cabling is one of the most common causes. A cable might have a short or a break, or it might be attached to a faulty connector. Tools such as DVMs and TDRs help search out cabling problems. Cabling problems can cause one of three major problems:
a) An individual computer cannot access the network.
b) A group of computers cannot access the network.
c) None of the computers can access the network.
When networks are configured using a star topology, an individual cable break between the computer and hub or MASU will cause a failure in communication between that individual computer and the rest of the network. This type of cable break will not cause problems for all of the other computers on the network. The Microsoft Win NT Performance Monitor too can let you help about checking the bottlenecks that are causing problem in your network. If network use exceeds the capacity of the network, you need to consider redesigning the network. Also you might need to divide the network into smaller work groups by using a bridge to reduce network traffic. A protocol analyser can help you measure and monitor the traffic at various points on your network.