What basis is used to differentiate between standard probes and patterns?

The differentiation between standard probes and patterns in ServiceNow Discovery primarily hinges on the phases and features they support. Standard probes are typically designed for specific and often simpler tasks, such as discovering network devices or identifying services running on those devices. They operate in the initial stages of the discovery process and work through predefined routines to gather information.

On the other hand, patterns are more sophisticated components that can support more complex discovery requirements. They are capable of adapting to a wider variety of scenarios and can incorporate logical operators and conditions to refine the discovery process. Patterns often utilize a broader array of features, such as identification and reconciliation, to discern more nuanced data from discovered items.

Understanding this distinction helps in effectively planning and executing a discovery strategy within the ServiceNow platform, ensuring that the right tools are used for the specific nature of the data being collected.