PatchMaker is a network management tool that tracks and stores descriptions of physical network patches in a database. Physical patches are cables that connect switches, patch panels, and room ports. PatchMaker allows administrators to manage switch ports from multiple vendors giving them the ability to enable/disable ports, make VLAN changes, and perform other switch port functions through a common web front-end. Finally, PatchMaker aids in host management by tracing network connections, identifying what kinds of devices are connected to the network, and helping to troubleshoot physical network problems.
Joseph R. Crouthamel, James M. Roberts, Christophe