In this second part, we’re delving deeper into the practical side of network design in the IoT (Internet of Things) era. It’s not just about making connections anymore; it’s about ensuring your network can handle the complexities of modern tech while keeping things secure and flexible. So, let’s jump right in.
You can see part one here.
More Devices per User
Gone are the days when a single computer was the only thing connected to your office network. Nowadays, it’s a tech jungle out there, with everyone bringing in their smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. Managing all this traffic without causing chaos is a challenging task, and having a good network connection is vital to keeping everyone connected.
Pro Tips:
- Invest in a robust Wi-Fi system that can handle multiple devices simultaneously.
- Consider implementing a device management system to keep track of all those gadgets.
- Encourage employees to use secure passwords and enable two-factor authentication on their devices.
- Regularly update firmware and software on all connected devices to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Provide training on cybersecurity best practices to all employees to minimize the risk of breaches.
Security and Reliability
With the discussion around how different the modern approach to network design is, you may wonder if network security has evolved in the same way. Short answer: Yes.
Whereas previously, the firewall was your defense against the outside internet, as we discussed, the modern workforce requires connections to services and people outside your physical network. How do you open the door for collaboration and productivity without opening the floodgates of cyber threats?
Additionally, how good is any service that isn’t reliable? I think we have all experienced the phenomenon of connecting to your hotspot when the Wi-Fi is down. Unfortunately, as soon as your users leave the network boundary, they may be leaving the security features of that very network. This is why reliability and performance are critical.
Pro Tips:
- Determine the correct internet speed based on your business use case.
- Procure the right hardware that balances cost, performance, and reliability. Spending more on the correct firewall is your best call in order to optimize the internet connection.
- Use a smart firewall such as Cisco Meraki or Unifi to inspect network traffic based on the SaaS app and automatically update to remediate security vulnerabilities.
- Consider the benefit of redundancy. A fail-over internet connection, battery backup, or spare hardware are great things to minimize or eliminate downtime correlated to a single point of failure.
Support and Maintenance
Keeping network software up-to-date and hardware in good condition is essential for a secure and high-performing network. Additionally, educating your team on network maintenance and security best practices reinforces your network’s overall health and security.
Pro Tips:
- Schedule regular network check-ups to catch any issues before they become full-blown emergencies.
- Invest in a reliable IT support team to troubleshoot problems and provide assistance when needed.
- Educate your employees on basic network maintenance tasks to empower them to take ownership of their digital workspace.
- Keep hardware and software up to date with regular updates and patches.
- Consider outsourcing routine maintenance tasks to free up internal resources for more strategic initiatives.
In Conclusion
In this two-part series, we’ve examined the critical considerations for setting up a modern business network. From accommodating many devices to ensuring robust security and scalable infrastructure, the requirements for business networks are constantly evolving.
Your network is not just an operational necessity; it’s a strategic asset in the digital age. Investing in a well-planned, adaptable network is a wise decision that fosters your business’s future growth and success.
For expert guidance and a tailored approach to network setup, partnering with a knowledgeable team like Interlaced can elevate your business network to meet these challenges head-on. Schedule a free call today!
