Configuring external observability platforms

Configure trace export to send end-to-end monitoring transaction traces to external observability platforms, verify the connection, and monitor export activity. You need to complete this task during initial monitoring setup or when you update APM connection details, switch providers, or troubleshoot trace export issues by using the available statistics and transaction status information.

About this task

To enable trace export, configure the connection settings, authentication, and export parameters for your external observability platform. The configuration determines where trace data is sent and how it is transmitted.

For field descriptions and configuration options, see External observability platform configuration reference.

Procedure

  1. From the end-to-end monitoring UI, in the main menu, click End-to-end monitoring.
  2. In the End-to-end monitoring navigation pane, click Manage > OTel.
  3. On the Configuration tab, configure the connection to your external APM platform.
    Important: By default, IBM Instana is selected with pre-populated endpoint and authentication settings. To connect to a different APM platform, select Other and enter your platform-specific connection details.
  4. Set the Enable trace export toggle to On.
  5. Click Test to verify the connection.
    A success message confirms that the connection is valid and trace data can be exported.
  6. On the Statistics tab, view trace export activity by specifying a time range and filtering by status (Success or Failed).
    Note: Use the export batch ID from failed transactions when you contact IBM support for troubleshooting assistance.

Results

Transaction traces from end-to-end monitoring transactions are now exported to your external APM platform at regular intervals. Access these traces in your APM platform's interface to analyze transaction performance, identify bottlenecks, and troubleshoot issues alongside other application performance data.

If trace export fails, check the Statistics tab for error messages. Common issues include incorrect endpoint URLs, invalid authentication credentials, or network connectivity problems.

What to do next

After successful configuration, you can complete the following actions:

  • Click Edit on the Configuration tab to modify connection settings.
  • Review the Statistics tab periodically to monitor export health.
  • Set the toggle to Off to disable trace export temporarily.