How to use WCF Performance Counters with NAV 2009 Server

NAV Server (middle tier) utilises Windows Communication Foundations (WCF), which includes a number of performance counters that you can use to monitor NAV Server performance in real-time. This example shows how to monitor "Calls Per Second" for NAV Server to get some idea of how busy it is over a working day / over time. Many other counters are available.

Enable Counters

First, enable WFC Performance Counters as described in this article WCF Performance Counters:

1)  Use Notepad to edit "Microsoft.Dynamics.Nav.Server.exe.config" in the NAV Service folder (default is C:\Program Files\Microsoft Dynamics NAV\60\Service).

 

2)  Add the section below, marked with Red:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8" ?>
<configuration>
  <appSettings file="CustomSettings.config" />
  <system.diagnostics>
    <assert assertuienabled="false" />
  </system.diagnostics>

  <system.serviceModel>
<diagnostics performanceCounters="All" />
</system.serviceModel>

</configuration>

 

3)  Restart NAV Server.

 

Watch Counters

Use Windows Performance Monitor to select and view counters from NAV Server:

1)  Start Windows Performance Monitor (Start -> Run -> Perfmon.exe)

 

2)  Add a Counter, then from available categories, select ServiceModelService. This will list the NAV Server, so select this. Then add the counter(s) you are interested in - in this example "Calls Per Second":

Perfmon

 

I found that in a stand-alone situation, the only counter that really shows anything is "Calls Per Second". But in a multi user system, this could well be very different - please share your experiences here.

 

These postings are provided "AS IS" with no warranties and confer no rights. You assume all risk for your use. 

 

Best regards

Lars Lohndorf-Larsen

Microsoft Dynamics UK

Microsoft Customer Service and Support (CSS) EMEA