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.

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.