In an era of stiff business competition, businesses are investing in liquid and highly efficient networks to stay afloat. Availing a highly performing network to connect your employees, consumers, and locations improve productivity and keep your competitive advantage intact.
Today, a scalable network with built-in security is critical for any business. It’s crucial to partner with a network infrastructure provider that is serious about industry best practices, network access, and usability.
At the same time, business owners need to acknowledge that fact that business agility and profitability requires more than just talent. It requires a reliable, lean, and formidable network infrastructure.
Without it, your business is likely to offer below par user experiences, and it may become vulnerable to external attacks. This makes it crucial for decision-makers to envision the importance of network infrastructure, possible challenges, and opportunities and how to maximise network elements for rapid growth.
What is Network Infrastructure?
Network infrastructure refers to the hardware and software resources used but people and organisations to capitalise on a particular technology. Modern businesses use a specific form of technology, whether it’s telecom connections, smartphones, desktops, and the internet.
To leverage technology, a company needs infrastructure components that range from cables, routers, switches, data centres, operating systems, and the like. These components facilitate technology connections internally and externally.
To better understand network infrastructure, it’s essential to know the primary elements. It consists of hardware, software, devices, and systems that enable communication between people, processes, services, and programs. Typically, it consists of networking hardware (switches, routers) networking software (Network operations>operating systems) and network services.
The lack of an efficient IT network infrastructure can have far-reaching implications in the future. A venture that is keen on rapid growth and development needs to have a robust infrastructure that supports business operations and processes progressively.
Differences between Network Infrastructure and IT Infrastructure?
The terms network infrastructure and IT infrastructure are used interchangeably. Whereas they can be misconstrued to mean the same thing, there are subtle differences between them. Network infrastructure is a core element of the IT infrastructure in an organisation.
IT infrastructure is a critical component that ensures business continuity, but it’s the network infrastructure that determines the performance and success of the IT infrastructure.
A company’s IT infrastructure consists of elements that facilitate the overall IT operations and functions. The infrastructure comprises of components such as:
· Hardware-routers, switches, servers
· Software-productivity, ERP, CRM, and data management applications.
The network infrastructure of an organisation consists of elements that facilitate the connectivity, network communication, and management of the enterprise network.
Network infrastructure maintains internal and external connectivity of core and peripheral systems. Network infrastructure is charged with maintaining connectivity with the software.
Network infrastructure has components including wireless routers, switches, LAN elements, and cables. Also, it comprises networking software, OS, network security applications, and firewalls. There are network services such as IP addressing, satellite, and wireless protocols.
Why Network Infrastructure Is an Important IT Infrastructure Component
Although businesses will invest heavily in a reliable IT infrastructure, it’s crucial to have a robust network infrastructure. It’s the frameworks in the network that enable connection and communication. A secure network infrastructure guarantees the success of your organisation.
There are various network options in the market. They provide different levels of resilience. It’s crucial to think about the effects of such resilience on your businesses before you choose network infrastructure services. For excellent results, it pays to select a network infrastructure design that delivers utmost resilience.
One other reason why network infrastructure is a crucial component of your IT infrastructure is that it impacts your brand reputations, and you’re bottom-line too. At first, it might seem like a redundant expense, but it ends up making and saving your business money in the future. There is a catch to it since you need to have a resilient solution from a reputable networking solution provider.
Essential Elements of a Network Infrastructure
Network infrastructure devices are elements that facilitate the relay of data. Without these elements, your data network cannot function. These elements include:
- Routers
They forward traffic and allow devises and networks to communicate. They are crucial in a wireless network infrastructure. - Switches
They’re used to connect your computer to a local area to enhance syncing and connectivity. - Hubs and bridges
They’re used to transmit traffic to connected devices, and they can be used to turn multiple networks into a single network. - Gateways
They facilitate connections to different types of networks. - Servers
They play the server role to other computers, and they enable the generation of webpages in the connected devices - Cables
A key component of your IT infrastructure. They’re used to transmit data between your computers. There are traditional and optical fibre cables. - Firewalls
They regulate the flow of traffic according to network defined parameters and regulations. They are security and safety gateways. - Intrusion protection and prevention systems
They secure your network from unauthorised access. They keep unauthorised devices or individuals from accessing the network. - A virtual private network or VPN
Enables your business to link up with a secure or trusted network. - Operating Systems and Network Software
Your network relies on the OS and dedicated network software to enable connected devices to perform optimally.
The Essence of Network Management Services Singapore Market
Convenient access to a business network is crucial. A business cannot afford extended network downtime given the adverse effects it leaves behind. With a network infrastructure provider in your corner, you don’t have to worry about downtimes or the availability of IT talents/staff. Here’s how your Singaporean businesses will benefit from network management services.
Access to Network Specialists
Your small startup will benefit from the input offered by network infrastructure experts. Engaging a company that provides network management services saves you the money you have to spend on in-house IT professionals. A network infrastructure firm will be committed to managing your network issues professionally.
Unmatched Expertise
IT talents that handle network infrastructure issues are in high demand. When your company decides to hire a network infrastructure provider, there is a guarantee that you’re getting top-notched experts with the best industry skills.
Routine Monitoring
Network issues can occur without notice. With a network management service provider, your business enjoys constant network monitoring. It becomes easy to identify and fix network issues before they run your operation down.
Optimised Processes
Network infrastructure services are broad. It could be network management, performance analysis, maintenance, and the like. With a network management provider on board, it’s easy to visualise performance and to optimise company-wide processes and productivity.
Benefits of Secure Network Infrastructure Services in Singapore
The modern Singaporean business emphasizes secure network infrastructure. It helps them to drive efficiency and streamline disaster recovery. Securing your business network infrastructure comes with benefits, including:
Efficiency
A safe network infrastructure reduces downtime and increases productivity. Businesses lose critical time to a myriad of IT and network problems. With a secure network infrastructure, it’s easy to keep cyberattacks at bay. Your companies will recover quickly in the event an attack occurs.
Peace of mind
Today, there are hundreds of data breaches that are occasioned by weak network infrastructure. Your business, regardless of its size, can remain safe from these malicious attacks if you consolidate the integrity of your network. A secure network infrastructure offers peace of mind even though it cannot guarantee a 100% system defense.
Risk reduction
Your business networks require a constant updating of its security. Workers are increasingly going for Bring Your Own Device-BYOD options. As such, it’s essential to invest in a secure network to reduce the threat and risk surface with such devices being connected to your system.
Long-term savings
Network security seems like a waste until disaster strikes. Though it’s an unwelcome short term expense, it helps to circumvent the runaway costs that come with a data breach or an extreme network security incident. With a secure network, your businesses stave off the possible lawsuit, and bad reputation issues brought about by network breaches.
Network Infrastructure Trends Shaping Singapore Businesses In 2020
IoT network segmentation and monitoring
IoT is shaking up business processes in 2020. The segmentation of IoT devices is likely to be a considerable concern for the network department. Secure micro-segment zones will enable IoT devices to run on the same corporate networks while reducing risks to the rest of the system.
5G for branch office connectivity
5G is already an encompassing topic from a mobile device connectivity viewpoint. Though a wireless concept, it’s set to influence businesses from a static branch office outlook. Network vendors will integrate 5G into their mobile gateways. It will facilitate rapid deployment as a game-changer though it will require stringent network security measures in the process.
Network automation
There is an increasing demand for rapidly deployed networking services. Network teams are likely to experience pressure trying to keep up with such demands. The advent of network automation tools will remedy the situation. Whether a business opts for vendor tools or open-source alternatives, it will be easy to execute duplicating deployments and repeating operational management tasks.
Security becomes central to infrastructure design
Today, network security is no longer a mainstay for network security experts. IT security is becoming an inbuilt resource right from the moment a network infrastructure concept is conceived. The increasing threats to network infrastructure posed by IoT and hybrid cloud environments mean that businesses need to prioritise security throughout their infrastructural frameworks.
Network Infrastructure Service |
KG Sowers |
About | KG Sowers is an IT services provider dedicated to provisioning managed network solutions for business growth. The firm strives to be the leading IT, cloud, network, and professional service provider in South-east Asia. |
Services | · Managed Desktop
· IT Asset & Data Management · Premises Security · IT Equipment Rental · Backup Power Solutions |
Address | 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62, #08-33, [email protected], Singapore 569139 |
Telephones | (65) 6250 2083 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.sowers.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
DS Global Technology |
About | Consider DS Global Technology for your business network solutions in Singapore. The firm offers top-notch network infrastructure solutions and services.
It helps businesses to stabilise and secure their networks through cutting edge infrastructure design and security. |
Services | · Server Infrastructure Services
· Network Infrastructure Services · Enterprise Storage Solutions · Cabling Solution · Unified Communications |
Address | 67 Ubi Road 1 #06-08 Oxley Bizhub Singapore 408730 |
Telephones | (65) 6384 2864 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://dsglobaltech.com/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-5 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
OTC |
About | OTC is a reputable technology infrastructure hardware and software supplier in the South East Asia region. It focuses on individual business needs while providing IT, Cloud technology, and network automation services. OTC offers solutions based on market-specific and integration demands. |
Services | · Networking and Servers
· SCADA and PLC · Industrial IoT Hub and Gateway · Human Machine Interface (HMI) · Machine To Machine services |
Address | 1 Ubi Crescent,#06-07 Number One Building Singapore 408563 |
Telephones | (65) 6747-1670 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.overseastechnology.com.sg/ |
Network Infrastructure Service |
IT Solution |
About | IT Solution provides a one-stop IT package for network implementation, system support server, LAN/WAN, and wireless service needs. The firm relies on skilled network specialists to offer infrastructure maintenance and support to Singaporean businesses. It has been providing cost-effective applications and network solutions since 2013. |
Services | · IT Outsourcing Services
· IT Managed Services · IT Desktop Support Services · IT Maintenance Services · IT Management Services |
Address | 51 Goldhill Plaza #07-07Singapore 308900 |
Telephones | (65) 6690 3275 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.itsolution.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 930am-6pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
SPTel |
About | SPtel is a joint venture between ST Engineering and Singapore Power. It offers businesses the agility and flexibility of a professional network management company. It helps businesses to realise network resiliency and reliability for higher ROI. It provides a differentiated design, unique fibre routes, and best-in-class enterprise infrastructure solutions. |
Services | · Business Internet
· Dark Fibre · Data Centre Interconnect · IoT-a-a-S · Managed Customer Premise Equipment |
Address | 3, Ang Mo Kio Electronics Park Road, #03-02 Singapore 567714 |
Telephones | (65) 6602 8228 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.sptel.com/ |
Operating hours | Mon – Fri: 8.30 am – 6pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
RedTech |
About | RedTech is one of Singapore’s most established IT utility infrastructure providers. Since 2000, the firm has provided critical IT and network infrastructure frameworks that businesses need to grow. Redtech offers deployment and maintenance of utility infrastructure, network infrastructure, and IT project management in Asia. |
Services | · Fibre Network Design
· Utility Network Maintenance · Red Utility Network Project Management · Red Utility Network Maintenance · Red IT Project Management |
Address | 100 Lor 23 Geylang, #09-01 D’Centennial Singapore 388398 |
Telephones | (65) 6846 1784 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.redtechgroup.com/ |
Network Infrastructure Service |
FunctionEight |
About | FunctionEight caters to individual businesses and provides them with customised network design and infrastructure ere-engineering. The firm offers network services according to the business’s current needs and budget. It works with proven network methodologies to provide tailored services. |
Services | · Outsourced IT Support
· IT Support Consulting · IT Infrastructure · Website Development · Vendor Sourcing |
Address | 20 Cross Street #01-05/06 China Court Singapore 048422 |
Telephones | (852) 2868 2855
(852) 2868 2844 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.functioneight.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
AcaPacific |
About | Acapacific specialises in the provision of Network, Server, and Storage Infrastructure Solutions. It offers Singaporean businesses purpose-built network solutions to transform their growth. The firm provides solutions that allow you to optimise your network. Acapacific enables SMEs and MNCs to meet the demands of a disrupted marketplace. |
Services | · Cloud And Datacentre Solutions
· Cyber Security Solutions · DevOps Solutions · Managed Service Provider Solutions · Network, Server, and Storage |
Address | 20 Upper Circular Road #03-01/05, The Riverwalk Singapore 058416 |
Telephones | (65) 6536 1728 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.aca-apac.com/sg |
Operating hours | Weekday 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
CommScope |
About | CommScope helps businesses to leverage communication technology to optimise their networks. The firm helps enterprises to solve network architecture and bandwidth challenges. It offers professional cabling, fibre networking, and wireless infrastructure solutions for optimum network performance. |
Services | · Broadband and Video Devices
· Data Center and Fibre · Managed Networks · Network Transformation · Software and Integration |
Address | Cintech Bldg73 Science Pk Dr #01-14Singapore 118254
Singapore |
Telephones | (65) 63035468 |
[email protected] | |
Website | http://www.commscope.com |
Operating hours | Weekdays 830am-530pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
CTC Global |
About | CTC Global offers end-to-end IT solutions and network outsourcing services to Singaporean businesses. The firm relies on skilled IT experts to conceptualise, implement, and expand its technology offerings to local and overseas enterprises. CTC Global is reputed for its proficiency in system integration, network infrastructure design, and implementation. |
Services | · Infrastructure Services
· Support Maintenance · Enterprise Integration · Data Management · Server Consolidation |
Address | 315 Alexandra Road, #02-01 Sime Darby Business Centre Singapore 159944 |
Telephones | (65) 6701 1600 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.ctc-g.com.sg/ |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Terrabit |
About | Terrabit Networks is an ICT powerhouse in Singapore. The firm offers IT solutions in various disciplines. It provides network management, storage cloud, and network integration services across the APac region. Terabit helps businesses to monitor their networks, optimise their bandwidth, and leverage firewalls for increased security. |
Services | · Structured Cabling
· Wireless Network Infrastructure,
|
Address | 135, Joo Seng Road, PM Industrial Building, #05-04
Singapore, SG |
Telephones | (65) 6681 5658 |
[email protected] | |
Website | http://www.terrabitnet.com |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Sysnet |
About | Sysnet is committed to providing top-notch solutions in different fields, including network integration, IT infrastructure, data centre set up, network infrastructure equipment installation, and the like. Sysnet stands out from other providers through the provision of competitive services and support to its clients. |
Services | · Virtualisation Services
· LAN/WAN Architecture · Enterprise System Management · Data Centre Consolidation · Server Consolidations |
Address | 237, Pandan Loop, #03-07, Westech Building, Singapore 128424. |
Telephones | (65) 67730273 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.sysnet.com.sg/ |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Genesis Networks |
About | Genesis Networks provides professional deliver turnkey IT and network management services. It offers reliable installation, configuration consultancy, and supports services. Genesis provides excellent proprietary application capabilities and network integration expertise. The firm helps businesses to capitalise on a single server and multiple server environments. |
Services | · Data Centre
· Enterprise Software Solutions · Infrastructure Services · Managed Services · Audit and Consulting |
Address | Blk 2, Kaki Bukit Avenue 1, #06-06, Singapore 417938 |
Telephones | (65) 6848 2166 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.gen-net.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Mon – Fri: 9AM – 7PM |
Network Infrastructure Service |
StarHub |
About | StarHub has a strong presence in Singapore’s IT sector. It relies on a superb data centre network to offer businesses the resources needed for transformation and growth. It provides cost-effective network management solutions, reliable connectivity, and flexibility to manage various network devices and peripherals. |
Services | · Broadband Backup
· Data Centre · Cloud Services
|
Address | 67 Ubi Avenue 1 #05-01 StarHub Green, Singapore 408942 |
Telephones | (65) 6820 1631 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.starhub.com/ |
Operating hours | Mondays to Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
AsiaCloud |
About | AsiaCloud provides managed workplace services that enable businesses to maximise their network resources. It helps companies to leverage network visibility for improved performance. AsiaCloud enables enterprises to monitor their networks and to capitalise on onsite support, back up and monitoring report. |
Services | · Desktop and Server Management
· Managed Print Service · Device as a Service · Managed Network · Backup as a Service |
Address | 15 Shaw Road, #05-02Singapore 367953 |
Telephones | (65) 6471 6179 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://asiacloud.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 830am-545pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Argentra |
About | Argentra operates as a network integrator and IT distributor for top Singaporean businesses. The form helps companies to monitor their networks for future success. Argentra relies on skilled experts who work in tandem with client teams to identify and resolve network issues. |
Services | · Asset Management
· Backup & Disaster Recovery · Bandwidth Monitoring · Network Perimeter Security · Antivirus & Malware |
Address | 158 Kallang Way #07-01/02Performance Building Singapore 349245 |
Telephones | (65)6846.2393 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.argentra.com/ |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
RAMMP IT |
About | RAMMP IT Solutions is a leading tech and IT consultancy ion Singapore. It acts as a one-stop-shop for Hardware, Software, Network Implementation, cloud, and LAN/ WAN solutions. RAMMP offers project management, system migration, and IoT consultancy services, among other IT related services. |
Services | · Network Cabling
· IT Consulting · Hardware Support · Software and Website · Cloud Solutions |
Address | #20-11 Tong Eng Building;101 Cecil Street Singapore 069533 |
Telephones | (65) 6908 0668 |
Website | https://rammp.com.sg/ |
Operating hours | Monday to Friday, 9 am – 6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
NTC Integration |
About | NTC Integration is an Aidas Group affiliate that provides IT services and network solutions to a cross-section of industries. NTC seeks to offer infrastructure solutions at affordable prices. |
Services | · Network Infrastructure,
· Cloud & Managed Services · Network Infrastructure · Enterprise Storage · Network & System Maintenance |
Address | Blk 1001 Jalan Bukit Merah #07-03 / 04 / 05 / 06 Redhill Industrial Estate Singapore 159455 |
Telephones | (65) 6276 2823 |
[email protected] | |
Website | http://www.ntc.com.sg |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Inventivo |
About | Inventive specialises in the provision of network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and storage infrastructure, cloud, and automation solutions in partnership with globally acclaimed vendors. Inventive relies on a team of skilled IT professionals who are conversant in fields, including network cabling, firewall, storage set up, and network auditing, among others. |
Services | · IT Infrastructure Implementation
· Project Management Services · Network Audit Services · Networking and Cabling Services · Rack and Stack Services |
Address | 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62,#05-33 Link @ AMKSingapore 569139 |
Telephones | (65) 6802 5364 |
[email protected] | |
Website | http://www.inventivo.sg |
Operating hours | Weekdays 9 am-6 pm |
Network Infrastructure Service |
Primosys |
About | Primosys operates with the sole objective of providing the best-fit solutions to different verticals. The firm employs experts in the Systems/Infrastructure discipline and the Network and Security sector. It helps businesses to tackle issues such as network vulnerability, cloud issues, network monitoring, and sandboxing, among others. |
Services | · Network & Security Services
· Datacentre Services
|
Address | 69 Ubi Road 1, #09-23, Oxley Bizhub, Singapore 408731 |
Telephones | (65) 8200 5677 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.primosys.com.sg/ |
Benefits of Outsourcing Network Infrastructure Services
Modern businesses are continuously looking for network infrastructure solutions that offer intelligent offerings to maximise the productivity of a more converged network. Here are the benefits of letting a network infrastructure company work for you.
Controlled network infrastructure costs
Investing in managed network services reduces the network’s operational, service, maintenance, and software costs significantly. Singaporean businesses that turn to managed network infrastructure services attest to a 25% reduction in their yearly IT budgets. Other than increased control, the network service provider takes care of the upgrades.
Active network maintenance and threat prevention
Managed network infrastructure service companies allow businesses to focus on core tasks. They provide optimal network availability, network speed, and flexibility. These providers have network infrastructure capacities that enable fast implementation and upgrades. They focus on recurrent, proactive, and intuitive network monitoring and preventative monitoring.
Enhanced network security
Managed network infrastructure services guarantee security for your business data and voice network. Professional providers offer businesses solutions that protect them against spam, virus’s network intrusions and malware.
High level of network availability
Businesses need to assess the level of network access needed for the smooth flow of data and access. It’s crucial to work with a provider that guarantees 99.99% uptime. If yours is a venture with high levee data access needs you need a service with exceptional levels of uptime.
Enhanced service quality
Businesses that seek network infrastructure services form reputable providers enjoy improved service quality. With improved call routing, network resource management, and voice quality, businesses will benefit from the increased output. Also, providers opt to run application-aware networks where issues can be solved on the go to maintain high performance.
Consideration When Planning a Network Infrastructure Upgrade
Once your business scales, there is a likelihood that you will outgrow your network infrastructure capacity. Upgrading the network isn’t a short term process. You need to factor future growth and the current state of things. Here are considerations to make.
Number of users and types of equipment
It’s important to assess the number of new users that the new infrastructure needs to support. You need to review the servers, new devices, or users you expect to handle in the next 12 months at the minimum.
Expected Growth
There is a need to evaluate whether you want to establish a new office or you want to increase your staff. Check whether you want to start a remote office and whether it’s going to be a merger that will change the workplace and network dynamics.
Current Internet Connectivity
It’s important to review how your business connects to the internet. Consider whether you rely on an MSP or you have your equipment indoors. Check whether the MSP will require a hardware overhaul to facilitate upgrades.
Current network infrastructure and design
Bur infrastructure, assess your current network layout and infrastructure. Check the devices on the network and whether they have the right layout. Remember to take stock of the cabling and whether the physical infrastructure is right.
New requirements
It’s important to have a picture of the elements you need to purchase. Check whether you need VOIP capabilities, video conferencing, or a VPN if you are starting a remote office.
Security and privacy
For security purposes, check whether that inject the firewall is ideal and working. The integrated routers of today come with standalone firewall features efficiency and save you space. You may need to check whether you need to go wireless or whether you need to work with a combination of wireless and wired devices.
Tips When Choosing a Network Infrastructure Service Provider
Managing, securing, and monitoring the state of your network infrastructure isn’t an easy task. Some benefits come with hiring a managed network service firm. Here are things to consider when selecting a network infrastructure provider.
Network resilience
Network providers claim that their networks are resilient, yet they cannot prove it. It’s essential to query their failover and self-healing options in advance. The provider needs to provide meshed and multi-optional infrastructure routes that guarantee data relay if one connection fails.
Multilayer Network Security
For guaranteed network security in the cloud, go with a provider that offers a multilayered security option. The service should safeguard both the cloud and the fibre network through which the data is relayed. They need to guarantee security for routers and other devices in the cloud or on-premise.
Network performance guarantee
Your business will enjoy efficiency if there are high network speeds and bandwidth. Your provider should demonstrate capacity with quality of service and network resource availability. They need to show how they deal with escalations and whether they’re conversant with growing user demand.
Network scalability and flexibility
Your network needs to accommodate the growing and evolving technology without investing in additional equipment. A [potential vendor should demonstrate a capacity to provide cloud services, data backup, and corporate VPN. Also, check whether the addition of these services will disrupt your current operations.
Network connectivity and integration options
Before choosing a network infrastructure provider, make sure that their SLA stipulates an end-to-end network management clause. The agreement should detail particulars regarding connectivity, network type, and reach. Additionally, check whether the provider provisions access circuit options, including fibre optic, Ethernet, and leased cables.
Automated monitoring and surveillance tools
You can differentiate a provider based on their diligence and proactive network management approach. Always check the kind of monitoring, detection, and reporting tools they employ. Providers with automated detection tools will maintain your uptime and network availability as agreed.