Analyze and optimize network performance

Analyzing and optimizing network performance is essential when planning and administering Azure for SAP Workloads. A well-performing network ensures efficient communication between different components of the SAP landscape hosted on Azure. This article will provide insights into network performance analysis and optimization techniques to ensure a smooth and responsive SAP environment.

1. Network Performance Analysis:

To analyze network performance, Azure provides various tools and resources. Here are some key steps:

a. Network Monitoring:

Leverage Azure Monitor to collect network metrics such as bandwidth utilization, latency, and packet loss. Use Azure Network Watcher to diagnose network issues and perform packet captures for in-depth analysis.

az network watcher packet-capture create -g --location --target --name


b. Performance Metrics:

Utilize Azure Virtual Machine (VM) diagnostics extension to collect performance metrics. Capture data related to network interface (NIC) utilization, TCP connections, and network errors.

az vm extension set --resource-group --vm-name --name VMAccessForLinux --publisher Microsoft.OSTCExtensions --version 1.4 --protected-settings '{"username":"","password":""}'

c. Application Performance Monitoring:

Employ Azure Application Insights or similar tools to monitor the performance of SAP systems at the application layer. Track SAP transactions, response times, and identify any bottlenecks.

2. Network Performance Optimization:

Optimizing network performance involves leveraging Azure services and implementing best practices. Consider the following techniques:

a. Virtual Network (VNet) Peering:

Connect VNets hosting SAP systems using VNet peering to reduce latency and network egress costs.

az network vnet peering create --name --resource-group --vnet-name --remote-vnet --allow-vnet-access


b. ExpressRoute:

Establish a dedicated connection between on-premises infrastructure and Azure using ExpressRoute for enhanced network performance, low latency, and increased security.

c. Network Security Groups (NSGs):

Configure NSGs to allow only necessary traffic to SAP systems and block unauthorized access. Avoid excessive restriction, which can impact performance.

az network nsg rule create --name --resource-group --nsg-name --access allow --protocol tcp --direction inbound --source-address-prefixes--destination-port-ranges


d. Traffic Manager:

Utilize Azure Traffic Manager for load balancing across multiple SAP application servers or availability zones. Distribute traffic based on performance, priority, or geographic proximity.

e. Network Bandwidth:

Monitor and scale network bandwidth according to SAP workload demands. Upgrading NICs, using accelerated networking, or adjusting the VM size can help meet performance requirements.

f. Network Latency:

Reduce network latency by choosing Azure regions nearest to the SAP system users. Implementing edge caching services like Azure CDN can enhance content delivery.

3. Continuous Monitoring and Optimization:

Network performance optimization is an ongoing process. Regularly monitor performance metrics and fine-tune configurations based on changing workload requirements. Perform load testing to identify performance degradation or bottlenecks in the network infrastructure.

By analyzing and optimizing network performance in Azure for SAP Workloads, you can ensure a reliable and efficient environment for running critical SAP systems. Utilize the mentioned Azure services, follow best practices, and monitor performance continuously to provide a seamless experience for SAP users.