Which identifiers should be checked when troubleshooting the Identification Phase?

When troubleshooting the Identification Phase in ServiceNow Discovery, the primary focus is on CI (Configuration Item) Identifiers. These identifiers are crucial because they serve as unique markers that allow the Discovery process to recognize and differentiate between various CIs within the environment.

In this phase, Discovery utilizes different identifiers such as hostname, IP address, MAC address, and other specific attributes to accurately classify and identify devices. Ensuring that the CI identifiers are correct and properly configured is essential for the Discovery engine to effectively gather and manage the data associated with each configuration item.

While device types, network addresses, and security protocols are important aspects of the overall Discovery process, they primarily contribute to the context and functionality of the discovered items rather than directly influencing the initial identification. For instance, device types help categorize the type of CI, but they do not serve as unique identifiers themselves. Similarly, network addresses are pertinent for understanding the location and connectivity of devices in the network, yet they can vary according to changing network configurations and do not inherently define the CI's identity.

Thus, focusing on CI identifiers allows for a clear and accurate establishment of which items are present in the system, ensuring that subsequent phases of Discovery can proceed effectively.