IT Infrastructure services
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IT infrastructure consists of both hardware and software, services, as well as network resources that are essential to the operational practices of a business focused IT environment.
Having an efficient IT infrastructure is essential to deliver competent IT services and solutions to your employees, partners, and customers and to grow and improve your business.
Despite the popularity of networking and computing technologies, many people are confused about exactly how and what to set up.
It can be difficult even to find the bare minimum of tools you need; From file sharing and collaboration services to communications, network security and stability, helpdesk support and hardware management programs, options are vast and manuals are scarce.
Ultimately, setting up an IT infrastructure should be realistic for your business needs.
Use the tips below to work on your strategy to develop a long-term, sustainable and scalable IT infrastructure, regardless of size, industry, or plan.
Start with the Essentials
With any business IT infrastructure, comes a few essentials that should be prioritized above all else.
1. Hardware
Obviously, you don’t have much of an infrastructure without your hardware but having a decent hardware setup is much more than deciding whether to run on Apple or Windows. Building a decent infrastructure starts with a decent server.
Of course, going without a server is fine if you have fewer than 3 workstations, but if you plan to scale up it becomes a necessary investment. A practical server that costs no more than a desktop computer can serve 25 or more users, but for most small businesses a server-to-10 user ratio is ideal.
2. Software
Software concerns range from the operating system on which the network runs to the productivity tools needed for everyday life in the office. Think about your business needs and look for tools and software to help or streamline your processes.
3. Communication
E-mail is an important communication tool for your company. Having the right system is essential if you want to be able to communicate effectively and manage the messages sent and received
It is possible to set up and operate an e-mail system in-house, but only makes sense if you have your own server. New and smaller businesses tend to find that using a separate email service provider gives them more flexibility and reduces their administrative burden.
Email service providers are difficult to compare unless you have an idea of what you might need but thinking about it is a helpful place to start. how many email addresses you need, how your business is expected to grow, and what software and devices you use.
Since email is typically a business-critical service, it is important to consider what support your email service provider can provide in terms of service times and response time.
4. Email System
If you want to set up your own email system, you will spend a lot of time managing it, and the minefield of email security, it may be more beneficial to hire an IT service provider.
IT service providers can provide you with the support and knowledge needed for the survival of the IT infrastructure, so that you don’t need to worry about how to integrate CRM software, and instead focus more time on business development. Similarly, by outsourcing your IT department, it can ensure that you have a dedicated IT team that can assist server providers, data protection, and network security, while reducing the operating costs of the core team.
5. Network and security
IT infrastructure is connected through the corporate network. However, the network consists of network enablement, internet access, security, and firewall features. The key here is not only access to the Internet, but also remote access to printers and other devices, and the ability to share files between computers.
The first thing in the list is to select the type of network you need. There are three types of networks: wired networks, wireless networks, and hybrids. Everything has its strengths and weaknesses, so choose the one that suits you best.
The next step is security. The first thing you need to do is to set up a firewall. The general firewall that comes with your operating system is usually not up to this task, so it is best to choose a more advanced firewall device to protect your network from network attacks and data leakage. A good firewall can stop intruders and protect your company’s sensitive data.
In addition, you should consider adding additional network security software, such as anti-virus software, anti-malware software, etc., to add an extra layer of protection. Nowadays, hackers are both smart and capable, so it doesn’t hurt to fully protect your company’s network.