The network infrastructure is one of the most important elements of a business, comprising hardware and software, systems and devices, and the communication between users, services, applications, and processes. As a small business scales, the network infrastructure must scale alongside it to optimize operations and support the highest quality performance both internally and externally in coordination with key stakeholders and clientele.
Here are five ways small businesses can improve network infrastructure.
Upgrading Network Architecture
A first step in upgrading network infrastructure is to assess the performance of existing hardware and systems. Your network should be equipped to handle the speed and cadence of your operations and it should also align with current security protocols and best practices. Assess your infrastructure and develop a comprehensive list of what needs to be updated first, define the pain points of your operation, and take note of where updates can be pushed to the future.
As a broad goal, a growing small business should commit to maturing its network architecture positioning the business for continued growth in the years to come with a strong technical base. Whether the ultimate goal is reducing operations costs, streamlining processes, or matching the speed of your operations, begin with making necessary updates to your technical hardware.
Improving Network Security
Site security is critical in maintaining a solid infrastructure of your digital footprint.
“The most important thing is network security,” said Denis Beylis, a Cloud Network Engineer and Architect at YSL. “Medical offices, accounts companies, any businesses which store personal information have to install a firewall system to prevent data leaking.”
A primary leader for network security in his position, Denis Beylis expresses the importance of protecting data and places it as a principal focus in his operations.
Implementing improvements will make a site less susceptible to malware or DDOS attacks and will safeguard user information and prevent data loss and theft. Updating your security accordingly as your business scales ensures that your operations will run smoothly and safely.
Implementing Software Updates and Improvements
Updating to new versions of software on a consistent basis improves both technical operations as well as team efficiency. Maintaining consistent communication with developers can elevate the commitment.
“If something went wrong, we would keep in touch with the developer and even send them screenshots of our issues,” said Denis Beylis. “We keep consistent communication with the developer to update and make the software better, whether to make it more user-friendly, change the algorithm, or make it more powerful for staff utilization.”
Ensuring your systems are up to date is a primary focus in securing the health and efficiency of your network infrastructure, elevating that commitment, and maintaining a line of communication with developers that allows for continued improvement.
Implementing Cloud Computing
Storing your data on a server outside of the physical space allows your organization to hold more information, transmit files at much higher speeds, and optimize business operations. With countless cloud storage and computing services available, there are a variety of options for any size business. Cloud computing includes predictable, subscription-based payment models, services that scale up or down with demand, and a reduced infrastructure footprint.
Though there are many benefits, cloud computing is not for every business. Cost considerations, compliance requirements, and the need for comprehensive data and system control may restrict cloud options for some companies. The transition and fit are unique to each organization but can have substantial benefits if the option is right for you.
Create Backups for Your Systems
Making updates to hardware and software introduces the potential for error. It is strongly advised that you make comprehensive backups of your systems. Whether mirroring the OS on computers or making duplicate files, you should determine a “Plan B” in case of system failure. A lack of backups can cause your teams to lose months of work and important data. Taking the time to back up your software and data as your company scales is a necessary part of growing your network infrastructure.
Network infrastructure is the backbone of your organization. In making technical decisions that scale with your company, you are setting your leadership, teams, and clients up for success in the long-term. As your company grows, so should your network infrastructure.