Network infrastructure is a vital component of modern business operations. It ensures businesses have effective connectivity, communication and management between users, equipment, and external networks.
Network infrastructure is a term used to describe the hardware equipment and software applications, used to help individuals and businesses leverage certain technology. It is very likely your business uses some degree of telecoms technology, whether that’s phone lines and headsets, or computers, smart phones and the internet. The immerse opportunities that come from such technology also requires sufficient cabling, switches, routers, and other bits of equipment to ensure this technology is connected and linked both internally and externally.
Failure to have an effective IT network infrastructure in place, can lead to dramatic inefficiencies for your business down the road. Particularly for businesses looking to grow and develop, having a network that can support all business operations and requirements should be one of the top priorities.
So, how can businesses get started with network infrastructure?
We’ve listed out a few of the main elements of a network infrastructure below. Every business is different and likely to require tailored network designs and installation, but hopefully this quick guide can introduce the main parts of a network.
- Cabling
Cabling lies at the heart of network infrastructures and helps provide a channel to pass data, voice and communication through. Like many aspects of telecoms, reliability is extremely important when it comes to cabling. That’s why we only use the very best cabling equipment, including Cat 5, Cat 6, and Optical Fibre.
The cables connect key parts of business technology equipment together, to create a network that can function effectively. This cabling system means as your business adds new equipment or resources, it can be simply added to the system to deliver seamless integration. This makes expansion and changes within a business easy to manage.
Telecoms cabling can also be integrated into other business systems, such as fire and security. This can mean only one installation and system is required to cover a range of purposes.
The cabling requirements will vary business to business and is largely dependent on the type and size of operations. Regardless of the specific design of the cabling network, the benefits are abundant for all businesses. It offers cost-effective, scalable, and a simple system that helps reduce the risk of downtime or IT problems within the business.
For the best results, it’s worthwhile leveraging specialist knowledge and skills when it comes to network cabling. Here at PureComms, we can help listen to your specific challenges and goals for the future and ensure you receive a network design and installation that meets your specific criteria.
- Routers
Routers help direct data and communication within an IT network. They help ensure the right bits of data end up in the right place. They read the incoming data and send it to the required destination between networks.
There are a range of routers available, so it depends on your business’s needs in how these will be set up.
- Switches
Switches and routers can often be mistaken for one another. Routers can be seen as the piece of equipment used to connect networks, while switches are the pieces of equipment used to create the network.
Switches help connect all the different bits of technology together – for example, phones, mobiles, laptops, servers, screens, lights, etc. Network switches help all these different elements of the network “talk” to each other, helping create a powerful communication system.
Similar to routers, there are plenty of different network switches available, so we can draw on our expertise and experience to ensure you utilise the most appropriate one for your business.
- Firewalls and Security
The security and safety of your business information, data and communication channels can’t be ignored. Firewalls and other security measures help ensure a network is safe and secure. Firewalls operate on a set of rules and control what is allowed in the network based on this.
Monitoring the network and having a clear process for potential issues and problems is a determining factor in how businesses can scale confidently.
- Wireless LAN Equipment
Equipment and technology within a network can be linked together via a wireless central hub. This can create quick and effective networks that operate on a wireless basis.
Many businesses may want to include a wireless element within their network or as part of a specific part of the network. Many small businesses can become lean and agile with wireless connections.
- Computers, Servers and other Devices
Computers and servers are likely to play a key role in a modern-day business. It is worthwhile mentioning this type of hardware as often the best network infrastructure can be compromised by out-dated devices such as computers or phones.
Your business may opt for a physical server or decide on using cloud storage. If you’d like to understand what is best for your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we can offer recommendations based on your specific business.
- Operating Systems and Network Software
The network will also rely on operating systems and dedicated software to ensure the hardware and connected devices live up to their potential. There are different types of software and applications available, so we can help ensure you use one suitable for what you need it to do.
- Wi-Fi
Business-grade Wi-Fi and connectivity is something that all businesses should value and invest in.
Wi-Fi connectivity can also be an integral part of businesses in industries such as travel and hospitality. Offering Wi-Fi to customers can be a key ingredient in delivering a service that your customers expect. This Wi-Fi can be built into your network, so you can monitor traffic, trends and user information to help ensure you’re keeping customers happy.
Get Started with PureComms
If you’d like to get started with developing an effective network infrastructure or simply get some better telecoms equipment or connectivity, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at PureComms. Our expert team can help ensure you get the support and guidance required to get the most out of telecoms.
