Reactive Network Configuration (Overview)

Reactive network configuration (formerly known as Network Auto-Magic (NWAM)) simplifies basic network configuration by automatically addressing basic Ethernet and WiFi configurations. The basic network configuration includes connecting to wired or wireless network at startup and displaying notifications about the status of your currently active network connection from the desktop. Reactive or automatic network configuration also simplifies some of the more complex networking tasks, such as the creation and management of system-wide network profiles, for example, the configuration of naming services, IP Filter, and IP Security (IPsec), all of which are features of Oracle Solaris.

This chapter provides background information about reactive network configuration. A detailed description of the profiles that the system uses to simplify and automate network configuration is also provided.

This chapter covers the following topics:

• Highlights of Profile-Managed Network Configuration

• What Is Reactive Network Configuration?

• When to Use Reactive Network Configuration

• Network Profiles and Types

• Profile Activation Policy

• Profile Configuration Tasks

• How Reactive Network Profiles Work

• How Reactive Networking Works With Other Oracle Solaris Networking Technologies

• SMF Network Services

• Network Configuration Security and Authorizations

• Where to Find Network Configuration Tasks

This chapter is intended for users and system administrators who have an understanding of basic networking concepts, as well as some experience managing network configuration by using traditional networking tools and commands. If you are ready to use reactive network configuration to manage your network configuration, skip to Chapter 2, Creating and Configuring Reactive Network Profiles (Tasks).

For basic information about administering network interfaces in Oracle Solaris, see Configuring and Administering Oracle Solaris 11.1 Networks and Connecting Systems Using Fixed Network Configuration in Oracle Solaris 11.1.