Exploring Pushover: A Cross-Platform Push Notification Solution

Unless you’re taking some time to disconnect from the world, staying informed is normally a top priority. Whether you’re managing a personal project, monitoring your business infrastructure, or automating your home, getting timely notifications can make all the difference. Pushover, a robust notification service, offers an efficient and customizable solution for your notification needs. One of its notable integrations is with Peplink’s InControl 2 cloud management service, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of network management. Let’s delve into how Pushover works and its integration with InControl 2, along with other benefits it offers.

What is Pushover?

Pushover is a cross-platform notification service that allows users to receive push notifications on their mobile devices, tablets, or desktop computers. It’s designed to make your life easier by ensuring you never miss critical alerts, reminders, or updates. With a straightforward setup and a user-friendly interface, Pushover is a versatile tool for both personal and professional use.

Key Features of Pushover

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Pushover works seamlessly across Android, iOS, and desktop platforms, ensuring you receive notifications no matter what device you’re using.
  • API Integration: Developers can use Pushover’s API to send notifications from various applications, scripts, or websites. This feature makes it easy to integrate Pushover into your existing workflows.
  • Priority Settings: You can set different priority levels for notifications, including an emergency priority that can bypass your device’s silent mode, ensuring that critical alerts always get through.
  • Groups and Users: Pushover allows you to send notifications to individual users or groups, making it easy to target specific audiences for your alerts.
  • Integration with Other Services: It integrates with various tools and services, such as IFTTT and Zapier, allowing for automated notifications based on specific triggers or events.

Integrating Pushover with Peplink’s InControl 2

Peplink’s InControl 2 is a comprehensive cloud-based network management platform that allows users to remotely monitor and manage their Peplink devices. With the integration of Pushover, users can enhance their InControl 2 experience by receiving real-time notifications about critical network events. 

How the Integration Works

  1. API Token Support: InControl 2 supports API tokens from Pushover, enabling users to set up Pushover notifications easily.
  2. Flexible Notification Setup: Users can configure notifications for various events, such as device disconnections, firmware updates, or usage thresholds, which can be received via email, the InControl 2 app, or Pushover.
  3. Enhanced Monitoring: With Pushover, you can receive immediate alerts about any network changes or issues, allowing for quick responses and minimizing downtime.

Adding the InControl 2 API to Pushover

  1. Log into your InControl 2 account at https://incontrol2.peplink.com
  2. Navigate to the Group of devices you want to be notified about
  3. Click on the Settings tab at the top right and choose Notifications.

  1. Refer to the note below the Pushover Notifications section and click on the this image link and it should download an image icon. 
Note from Peplink InControl 2
  1. Next, from the Pushover page (https://pushover.net), go to the Your Applications section (scroll down on the main page; picture below) and fill in the Name and upload the image provided from the Peplink InControl 2 page. 
Your Applications section on Pushover
Application setup from Pushover
  1. Once you’ve entered the Name and applied the image from Peplink’s InControl 2, check the box to agree to Pushover’s terms and conditions, then click Create Application.
  2. You’ll then be presented with a note that says Your application has been created along with the API Token/ Key that you will need to enter on the Peplink InControl 2 page next.
Application confirmation and API token/ key
  1. Now that Pushover has been configured, we’ll move back to the same Notifications page at InControl 2. 
  2. Refer to the following settings and configure accordingly:
    1. Enabled: Check the box to enable the notifications. Note that you may create multiple profiles with different notification rules by clicking the plus tab at this page.
    2. Devices Notify for: Set the device or devices you want this notification profile to apply to
    3. Silence Period: Apply these settings to mute notifications during certain days/ times
Notification Settings on InControl 2
  1. Pushover Notifications: Scroll down to the Pushover Notifications section and enter your API token and user key from the Pushover page (see the main page at login)
  2. Check the boxes for the Notifications you want to receive and then fill in the conditions that need to be met for a notification to be sent (e.g. Device Online/Offline). 
  3. Click Save Changes at the bottom of the page when you’re done. 
Configuration of Notification Settings on InControl 2

Pushover notification example via Android device

Why Use Pushover with InControl 2?

  • Immediate Alerts: Stay ahead of potential issues by receiving instant notifications about network events.
  • Customized Notifications: Tailor your notifications based on your specific requirements, ensuring you only receive the most relevant alerts.
  • Multi-Platform Support: Receive notifications across different devices, ensuring you’re always informed, even on the go.

On-Demand Push Notifications for Emergencies

Pushover also allows users to send push notifications to all or selected devices on demand. You can even opt for an email to be sent. This feature can be incredibly helpful in emergencies where users might not have access to (or might not check frequently) alternative communication methods. For example, in the event of a network outage, a critical security breach, or severe weather conditions, you can instantly alert all relevant personnel or household members. This capability ensures that everyone stays informed and can take necessary actions promptly.

Other Benefits of Using Pushover

Beyond its integration with Peplink’s InControl 2, Pushover offers several other advantages:

  • Server Monitoring: IT professionals can set up notifications for server health and downtime, ensuring they can quickly address any issues.
  • Home Automation: Get alerts for events such as door openings, motion detection, or other sensor data.
  • Project Management: Receive updates about task assignments, status changes, or deadlines, keeping your projects on track.
  • Personal Reminders: Use Pushover to set up custom reminders for personal to-do lists or important dates.

Final Thoughts

Pushover is a powerful notification tool that enhances your ability to stay informed and responsive. Its integration with Peplink’s InControl 2 cloud management service is just one example of how it can be tailored to meet specific needs, making it an indispensable tool for both personal and professional use. Whether you’re managing a network, monitoring servers, or automating your home, Pushover ensures you’re always connected to the information that matters most.