CMDB

Whata is CMDB?

A: A Configuration Management Database (CMDB) is a centralized repository used to store configuration information of IT assets and services in an organization. It is an essential part of IT service management (ITSM), providing a structured approach to managing IT environments.

What is the purpose of CMDB?

A: A CMDB provides a centralized database for managing and storing configuration data about IT assets and services, helping organizations keep track of their configurations and relationships.

Is a CMDB recommended for ITIL?

A: Yes, a CMDB is highly recommended for organizations implementing ITIL as it improves the service management efficiency, control, and accuracy in a structured way.

What is the difference between Asset Management and CMDB?

A: The difference includes:

Asset Management	CMDB
Asset management is managing any physical or virtual resource owned by an organization. Example: Hardware, Software	A Configuration Management Database (CMDB) is a centralized repository used to store configuration information of IT assets and services in an organization.
It focuses on financial aspects like purchasing, depreciation, and cost tracking.	It focuses on the configurations and relationships between IT components.
It manages individual assets.	It includes data on how assets interact and support IT services.
Assets are the resources managed in Asset Management. They are valuable organizational resources, including hardware, software, and infrastructure, that support and enable business operations.	A Configuration Item (CI) is any component within an IT environment, including hardware, software, or services, that is tracked and managed through the Configuration Management Database (CMDB).

What challenges are associated with maintaining a CMDB?

A: Common challenges include:

• Data accuracy: Keeping the information up-to-date can be difficult if changes in the IT environment aren’t reflected in the CMDB.
• Complexity: Managing large amounts of data, especially in complex environments, requires careful planning and consistent processes.
• Tool integration: Ensuring smooth integration with other IT systems and processes is crucial for CMDB effectiveness.

Do I need a separate license for CMDB?

A: Yes.

What is stored in the CMDB?

A: The CMDB (Configuration Management Database) stores detailed information about Configuration Items (CIs), which can include hardware, software, systems, and services used in an organization. It tracks configurations, relationships between CIs, and their dependencies. The CMDB also records associations with critical business services, assets, departments, users, and other related data necessary for managing IT services effectively.

What types of assets or configuration items (CIs) are stored in a CMDB?

A: A CMDB can store various types of configuration items (CIs) such as:

• Hardware (servers, routers, workstations)
• Software (applications, operating systems)
• Network components
• Virtual machines
• Documentation (policies, configurations)
• Services and dependencies between components

Who are the key users?

A: The key users include those associated to service delivery and management both within and outside the organization.

What is a discovery pattern?

A: A discovery pattern is a predefined or custom set of instructions that automatically scans the network to identify, classify, and collect detailed information about both configuration items (CIs) and assets within an organization’s IT environment.

What is the difference between the classification and discovery pattern?

A: Classification pattern identifies the attributes of the device like OS or kernel. While Discovery pattern uses the result of classification and based on the set conditions discovers the device as CI or asset.

Can I create an Asset from CI and vice-versa?

A: Yes, using Sync Rule feature you can create an Asset from CI and vice-versa.

Can I map the CI status with Asset status? How?

A: Yes, the CI Asset Status Mapping feature allows you to link the asset and CI lifecycle status. When an asset moves through its life cycle (e.g., from procurement to being in use), it transitions into the CI lifecycle. For example, once an asset is "In Use," its status as a Configuration Item (CI) begins, where it can be marked as Operational or Non-Operational. As the asset continues its journey (e.g., undergoing maintenance or being retired), the CI status changes accordingly, ensuring both lifecycles remain synchronized.

Can a CMDB be used for cloud infrastructure?

A Yes, modern CMDBs can track and manage both on-premise and cloud-based assets.

What are the various ways to create CI?

A You can add a CI in multiple ways:

• Discovery: You can create a CI via agent-based or agentless discovery.
• Manually: You can create a CI manually using the Create New > Add CI option from the portal.
• Sync Rule: You can create a CI based on the sync rule configured in the Asset type. This sync rule will execute based on the Workflow.