What is the primary function of the Identification Phase in ServiceNow Discovery?

The primary function of the Identification Phase in ServiceNow Discovery is to match information against existing Configuration Management Database (CMDB) records. During this phase, ServiceNow Discovery assesses the data collected from the network to see if any of the discovered items correspond to existing configuration item (CI) records. This matching process is crucial because it allows the system to recognize whether a new device is already represented in the CMDB or if it should be indexed as a new CI.

By successfully matching discovered devices with existing records, organizations can ensure that their CMDB remains accurate and up-to-date. This phase helps to maintain data integrity and avoid duplication of records, which can lead to confusion and inefficiencies within IT management processes.

The other options, while relevant in the context of the overall Discovery process, do not accurately describe the specific, primary function of the Identification Phase. Creating new CIs, gathering detailed attributes, and executing probes are all subsequent steps or components that occur in relation to identification but are not the defining purpose of that particular phase.