With xNMS, barox has introduced a software platform designed to support the planning, configuration and monitoring of video and security networks. The platform combines network discovery and topology visualisation with configuration comparison and pre-deployment switch configuration. A backup capability is scheduled to follow with version 1.1, currently expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
As video surveillance and other IP-based security systems grow in scale and complexity, so do the demands placed on the network infrastructure behind them. Switches need to be configured, changes tracked and faults identified, often across distributed installations with numerous interconnected components.
For operators and integrators, maintaining visibility over devices, network relationships and configuration states therefore becomes an important part of ensuring consistent operation.
barox is addressing these requirements with xNMS, a new network management platform developed for video and security infrastructures. The software brings together several tasks spanning the lifecycle of a network, from initial planning and configuration through to monitoring during operation.
Automated Network Discovery and Topology Visualisation
One of the core functions of xNMS is automated network discovery. The software scans an existing infrastructure for switches and presents detected devices both as a structured list and in a visual topology.
This provides administrators with an overview of the devices present within the network and their relationship to the wider infrastructure. In larger installations, the topology view can also support troubleshooting by helping operators identify network structures and locate affected components.
The functionality is intended to support both existing installations and the planning or expansion of video and security networks.
Diff Checker Identifies Configuration Changes
For ongoing network operation, xNMS includes an integrated Diff Checker. The function compares stored configurations with the active configuration and highlights any discrepancies between them.
This enables administrators to identify configuration changes and detect deviations that may not have been authorised or intended. During troubleshooting, the comparison can also help determine whether a configuration change coincides with a network issue.
Beyond fault analysis, the function provides a means of documenting configuration changes and can support checks against defined configuration standards as well as audit processes.
For security networks, where an undocumented change to network infrastructure may affect the availability or operation of connected systems, visibility into configuration differences provides an additional layer of operational oversight.
Preparing Switches Before Deployment
Another focus of xNMS is configuration management. Switch configurations can be prepared before the physical hardware is delivered or installed, separating part of the configuration process from on-site deployment.
Once a switch has been installed, the previously prepared configuration can be used during commissioning. This approach is particularly relevant for larger rollouts involving multiple switches or geographically distributed locations where consistent configurations are required.
According to barox, configurations can also be simulated and validated in advance. Potential misconfigurations, dependencies and bottlenecks can therefore be identified during the planning stage, before the corresponding hardware has been ordered or installed.
The approach shifts part of the commissioning process into the preparatory phase and provides an opportunity to review network configurations before equipment is deployed in the field.
Backup and Rollback Planned for Version 1.1
barox also plans to add centralised backup management for switch configurations to xNMS. The functionality is intended to store multiple versions of switch configurations centrally.
If required, administrators will be able to return to an earlier configuration state and restore a previous version, providing a rollback option following configuration changes.
The backup capability is not part of the initial release. barox currently plans to introduce the feature with xNMS version 1.1, which is expected to become available in the fourth quarter of 2026.
This distinction is relevant when assessing the platform’s current capabilities: configuration management and comparison are available as part of the existing concept, while centralised configuration backup and restoration remain part of the planned development roadmap.
Free and Paid Versions
xNMS is available in two editions. A free version provides the core functionality required for basic network management, while a paid version offers the broader feature set intended for larger and more complex infrastructures, including additional control and automation capabilities.
barox provides a detailed comparison of the functionality included in the two editions.
Until the planned release of version 1.1 in Q4 2026, the paid edition is available free of charge with its currently available feature set, according to the company.
From Network Planning to Operational Monitoring
With xNMS, barox is bringing together several network management functions relevant to IP-based video and security infrastructures within a single platform.
Automated network discovery and topology visualisation provide an overview of the installed infrastructure, while the Diff Checker makes differences between stored and active configurations visible. Configuration management extends the platform into the planning and deployment phase by allowing switch configurations to be prepared and checked before the hardware is installed.
With the backup management functionality planned for version 1.1, barox intends to add centralised storage and restoration of different configuration states.
The platform is therefore aimed primarily at operators and integrators seeking to centralise the planning, configuration, documentation and monitoring of switch infrastructures used in video and security networks.
