Problems with implementing Netflow on Network Devices?

[CiscoPurpleBelt]

If we wanted to configure devices for Netflow to export the data to let's say Solarwinds, what are key considerations to take into account that could present problems on the network? I understand the the info on the devices is actually sent to the export devices such as Solarwinds after the flow expires after having being cached if I am not mistaken. What would be other problems that could arise if not carefully planned and implemented other than perhaps CPU memory or something?

[Jaime Saldana Morales · Accepted solution]

Hi CiscoBlueBelt,

A few recommendations from previous implementations:

• Solarwinds uses as transport UDP 2055
• If i am not wrong the template is exported every 30 you can change it via "template data timeout (minutes)"
• You can change cache timeout default is 30 minutes "cache timeout active 60"
• For expired sessions you can export it via "cache timeout inactive"

Hope this helps!

Regards,

Jaime Saldana

[CiscoPurpleBelt]

Configuring Netflow and settings in theory (if configured properly or with basic settings) should not cause any performance issues on a network correct as it is simply exporting cached data?

[CiscoPurpleBelt]

"show ip flow" commands do not work on a Catalyst 4507. 

I can do "show flow" but it is just to view basic exporter, interace, monitor, etc. config type info.
How do I verify if netflow is actually working on this platform?