We have learned to create graphs of different types and how to customize them. This allows us to place multiple items in a single graph, change their visual characteristics, choose different graph types, modify y axis scaling, and several other parameters. We were able to show basic trigger information and a percentile line on a graph.

We discovered simple, ad hoc, and custom graphs, with each category fitting a different need.

Simple graphs show data for a single item. Ad hoc graphs allow us to quickly graph multiple items from the latest data, although there's no way to save them. Custom graphs can have several items, all kinds of customization, and are similar to triggers—they are associated with all the hosts that they reference items from.

The creation of network maps also should not be a problem any more. We will be able to create nice-looking network maps, whether they show a single data center, or lots of locations spread out all over the world. Our maps will be able to show real-time data from items, network link status, and use nice background images.

In the next chapter we will look at additional ways to visualize data. Zabbix screens will allow us to combine graphs, maps, and many other elements on a single page. We will also discover how a single screen could be easily adapted to change the displayed information to a specific host. Combining the screens, slide shows will be able to show one screen for some period of time, then another, and cycle through all the selected screens that way.