Why is network infrastructure important?
A company’s productivity and efficiency depend on more than just capable, hardworking employees and high-functioning equipment like computers and phones.
Most businesses rely on the network to process customer orders and maintain client records. Communication between your business and your customers is vital, and it depends significantly on your network architecture. Consider your network infrastructure to be the backbone of your daily operations: everything else in your business relies on the strength and reliability of that backbone to operate successfully.
Running a business smoothly requires a robust and secure network architecture. Businesses without a solid infrastructure in place are more likely to suffer from a poor user experience for employees and clients or security issues that can affect employee productivity, increase costs or even damage brand reputation. It’s important to understand what network architecture really means and why it’s vital for your business.
The network infrastructure is the backbone, or foundation, of a healthy business. All of your business activities, from administration to employee productivity to customer satisfaction, rely on the network.
Without communication with customers, there are no customers. Without access to inventory, client records, and order functions, you can’t keep happy customers. Reliable network infrastructure is the difference between a successful, profitable business and a failing one.
What is network infrastructure?
Network infrastructure connects devices together using an access point. But it’s also the hardware and software that enable network connectivity, communication, operations and management of a network. It provides the communication path and services between users, processes, applications, and external networks/the internet.
Characteristics of a good network design
Since almost all of your business operations rely on the functioning of your network, an unreliable network can severely affect business operations – maybe even to the point of being non-operable! Without a strong network infrastructure, access to business data may be delayed or lost. Your productivity will drop, and you may not be able to fulfill customer orders. If your internet access is down, you may be unable to check your inventory, and your phone system may be affected if you use VoIP.
If your employees are unable to access the information they need to do their jobs, they’re going to become frustrated. Employee morale will drop. In turn, customer satisfaction will decline as employees can’t meet the needs of your customers without a reliable network infrastructure, and you could end up with lousy customer reviews and a loss of repeat customers.
What are the benefits of network infrastructure?
Efficiency. Creating a secure network infrastructure minimizes downtime and ensures that productivity remains as consistent as possible.
Scalability. A solid network infrastructure supports the growth of your business without having to redesign your network.
Cost-effectiveness. The costs of running your network will be consistent, and you will experience fewer network disruptions that may affect your bottom line.
Security. Managed network services provide enhanced security and protection from annoyances like spam, malware and viruses, while also keeping your data safe and secure.
Reach. Network infrastructure enables your employees to be connected to your network, no matter their location.
Benefits to having someone else manage your network infrastructure
- It’s one less thing you need to worry about in your day-to-day operations – hiring a managed service provider to take care of your network frees up your time to handle your business priorities.
- You can eliminate the need to hire a full-time IT professional by outsourcing the management of your network.
- Keep your network efficient and secure by allowing someone else to actively manage the network. Continue to receive maintenance, like technology updates, while also being monitored for security vulnerabilities.
- Your managed service provider will become familiar with your company’s needs, so they can provide consistent support and make recommendations for improvements or efficiencies.
- There are varying levels of network support solutions available. Whether you need an annual assessment of your network or full and active management, a managed service provider can offer the best solution for your network and business requirements.
Related articles
About Plow Networks
Plow Networks is a leading IT services provider, connecting businesses to technology since 2012. With deep expertise in network, cloud, and end user support services, we partner with clients to leverage technology in ways that simplify operations and fuel growth. Plow Networks is based in Brentwood, Tenn.
