Your business depends on its network infrastructure—the hardware and software needed to connect your team members to each other and to the Internet. For security, communications, and file storage purposes, it's essential to utilize effective network infrastructure management practices. Below are some suggestions to make your business network safer and more reliable.

Your Guide to Effective Network Infrastructure Management

Audit Regularly

Your IT group should perform regular network infrastructure audits so you know exactly what resources are attached to it and what types of software and operating systems they contain. A network often grows and changes without warning, so to keep up with its security needs, your team must know where its weak points are. Even if you think you've cataloged every new purchase, it's easy for new equipment—whether it's authorized or not—to slip by your notice.

Discuss Network Infrastructure Policies With Employees

Speaking of unauthorized equipment, be sure you explain to employees how their actions affect network security. Users are often the bane of IT managers, so it's important that you and your workers are all on the same page. Go over what activity is—and what is not—allowed, and explain the possible consequences of non-compliance. If necessary, limit employee access to just those areas of the network necessary for them to do their jobs efficiently.

Install Security Patches When Available

Any type of software application, whether it's a mass-produced spreadsheet program or a custom-built customer-relationship management (CRM) program, features myriad lines of code and a number of potential vulnerabilities. Hackers, malware-makers, and other "black hats" are constantly on the lookout for these vulnerabilities and will exploit them when possible. Software developers likewise are alert for vulnerabilities and create security patches to plug them up when discovered. They are normally free of charge, so you should instruct your IT team to check for and install any patches as soon as they are available.

For expert assistance managing your network infrastructure, contact Concord Technology Group in Lake County, OH. They have been serving businesses throughout the Greater Cleveland area for more than a decade. They also offer data backup, tech support, and network security services at reasonable rates. Visit their website to request information or call (440) 210-3200 to schedule a consultation.