Network management, the process in itself looks quite promising. A business has to first monitor, configure, and optimise the complete infrastructure. The whole process looks like controlling digital traffic, so that everything runs smoothly.
Now for businesses who completely rely on technology, the network management process has to be done smoothly. If done the right way, it can help to improve network performance along with security and even reduces downtime as per Slurp’it.
Above we have mentioned the stages, but read the article throughout to understand what goes under the roof, in each stage:
First Stage – Discovery
The first step in network management is discovery. Over here the business has to identify all the devices. This also includes components, and connections that make up their network infrastructure. Basically creating a map of everything.
As per Slurp’it a number of different tools and techniques can be used at this stage. Some popular techniques are:
- Manual discovery: This involves manually identifying network devices including connections. Tools like ping and traceroute can best help here.
- Automated discovery: This involves using network discovery softwares to scan. The tool both scans and identifies all the devices.
Once the business has discovered all the devices on their network, next comes documentation. They must document their configuration and connectivity. The information obtained will further be used for monitoring, configuration, and optimization.
Second Stage – Monitoring
Once the mapping of the network has been done, the next step is to monitor it. This involves collecting data about network performance. One can also identify any potential problems at this stage.
Now, there are a number of different metrics that can be monitored, like:
- Bandwidth utilisation: This measures how much of the network’s bandwidth is being used
- Latency: This measures the time it takes for data to travel from one point to another on your network.
- Packet loss: This measures the number of data packets that are lost during transmission.
The process of monitoring is actually the best one. Reason being, this helps businesses to identify and resolve problems before they impact their users. It can also help them to optimise their network performance.
Third Stage – Configuration
Next comes configuration. This process involves modifying the settings of network devices. And the best part, this single step can improve both performance and security. Some tasks that can be done in this stage are:
- Assigning IP addresses: Assigning IP addresses to network devices.
- Configuring routing protocols: Configuring routing protocols to ensure that data is routed correctly.
- Implementing security measures: Implementing security measures like firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
Fourth Stage – Optimization
Optimization is the last stage. This stage is all about making changes to a business’s network to improve their performance. The tasks performed (not mandatory) here are:
- Upgrading hardware: Upgrading hardware to meet the demands of your growing network
- Improving network topology: Improving network topology to reduce congestion and latency
- Fine-tuning network settings: Fine-tuning network settings to optimise performance.
Optimization is an ongoing process. We at Slurp’it would suggest that as the network of a business grows and changes, they will have to make adjustments. And that’s how they can perform the best.
Some benefits of comprehensive network management
As per Slurp’it a lot goes into network management. The process might seem easier to read, but each stage can take about days to complete. However, this struggle comes with extreme benefits, like:
- Best network performance. This process ensures that the business’s network runs at optimal levels, reducing congestion and latency.
- It even helps with identifying and mitigating potential security threats.
- Since monitoring and maintenance is done proactively here, there reduced downtime and even the disruptions are minimal.
- Better network performance even boosts employee productivity.
- It also provides valuable insights for informed decision-making. In this way, businesses can actually make the most out of the resources available to them.
What are the challenges of network management?
Network infrastructure is often complex and difficult to manage. It requires specialised skills. And in addition to this, the other challenges are
- Scalability issues
- Security threats
- Limited resources (personnel, budget, technology) can hinder effective network management
What are the best practices for network management?
- Document your network infrastructure
- Monitor your network regularly
- Configure network devices carefully
- Optimise your network regularly
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments
What is the future of network management?
The future of it holds much promise. In fact, the trends like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Automation, Cloud-based solutions, and the Internet of Things (IoT) can do a lot. With these technologies in place, one can expect innovations. Predictive analysis will get easier. And also the whole operations process can be streamlined in the best possible way.
Above are just a few of many steps a business can take to manage their network the best possible way around. By following the ones stated, any business can improve the performance, security, and even reliability of their network.
Remember, it is an ongoing process. You will have to stay vigilant. And also informed. Make sure to not to wait until it’s too late. Take control of your network today! If you want to know more about network management, contact us at Slurp’it!
