Network downtime is something that’s difficult to prevent, which often results in loss of data, Internet, and power for businesses. Even if you have some precautions in place, it isn’t possible to predict possible circumstances that could disrupt your daily operations.
Basically, network downtime refers to the time when you can’t use your system. It may vary depending on the nature of your company. Usually, when it happens, your system might be unavailable temporarily for quite some time. For this reason, your business won’t be able to make sales until your network starts working again.
Luckily, there are many ways to prevent network downtime, and these include the following:
1. Invest In Managed IT Services
One of the ways to avoid network downtime is to consider managed IT services from providers that offer support by monitoring your systems. It means that when your network goes down, your hired experts will respond immediately to ensure that your team will be back at work without experiencing any delay.
The best managed IT service providers have a team that provides routine monitoring and maintenance. They take on the tasks that would overload and make a backlog for your IT team. With this, your IT team will work strategically to support your business goals and boost efficiency, so network downtime will be avoided.
2. Check The Weaknesses Of Your Systems
If your business often experiences network downtime, one of the first things that you should do is to search where the problem originated. For example, if your website is down or your office is out of power, you should know if it’s a widespread failure or due to a blown fuse. Therefore, think of the possible internal and external threats of your systems to avoid network downtime.
3. Schedule Updates And Maintenance Regularly
It’s essential that your network team updates your network regularly. If possible, let them plan for the off-hours to ensure the stability and security of your software, hardware, and general systems.
However, there are instances when network maintenance may require a scheduled downtime. In this case, let your network team talk with the different departments of your company for them to be aware of your maintenance.
4. Consider Implementing Enterprise-Level Network Infrastructure
Several businesses try to save money by choosing lower-grade hardware. It’s always a bad call since the cost of enterprise-level upgrades is low compared to what your business stands to lose if you experience network downtime.
High-grade network equipment also helps maintain reliability, which means that your employees will stay productive even if there’s a slow Internet connection. While most enterprise-grade Internet connections tend to be costly, their prices have become more affordable recently as more and more businesses opt for them.
5. Switch To Colocation Or Cloud Services
Natural disasters can result in massive data loss. While they might be rare, it can be challenging to recover your business. A good way to avoid it is to consider cloud or co-location services. Cloud servers that are housed in a colocation center aren’t only more reliable and convenient, but they’re also safe and easy to access.
Usually, co-location centers make backup copies in a diverse geological region, so a major natural disaster, like an earthquake, won’t lead to data loss. Other than that, their buildings are well-structured to withstand any devastating natural disaster. They also use location security to avoid data theft and have a tech team on hand to manage problems.
6. Have A Backup Power Connection
Almost all buildings lose power at some point in time. Often, unexpected power failures that happen in the middle of the workday may cause employees to lose hours of unsaved work.
Although it takes a few seconds for a generator to come online, the brief interruption may mean losing hundreds of files. Fortunately, this can be prevented by using a quality uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which provides backup battery power to IT systems that kick in when there’s no regular power. With a UPS, the power loss will transfer to the battery supply immediately without causing any interruptions to the users.
However, you have to take note that a UPS has a limited power supply only, which lasts for a few hours. It’ll tide you over through a temporary power failure, but if you prefer something that lasts longer, it’s wise to have a backup generator. If you don’t want to deal with the expensive costs of downtime, backup power is always a good investment for your business.
7. Consider A Redundant Network Connection
Several businesses can handle Internet loss for a few hours. However, if your business depends on having a stable and constant Internet connection, a redundant connection is a great solution for you.
Basically, redundant connections use different network carriers and providers. So, in case your other network experiences downtime, you still have another network to pick up the slack.
Conclusion
For many businesses, network downtime isn’t only inconvenient, but it can also be incredibly expensive. By implementing the tips above, you’ll be able to prevent network downtime and reduce the chances of experiencing any possible damage that it may cause to your business. Just make sure to implement them properly and hire professionals to get the best possible results.
Author’s Bio: Daniel Smithson is a managed IT specialist. He has been in the industry for more than a ten years. He conducts seminars and writes web content to share his knowledge and expertise. Daniel loves to play basketball, watch movies, and travel during his free time.