Setting up an efficient IT Infrastructure
Network infrastructure, specifically, the local area network (LAN) form the backbone of a company’s IT infrastructure. Therefore, setting up an efficient network infrastructure determines people productivity besides enhancing optimal performance for IT equipment. A good LAN setup also enables an organization to optimize on the potential of the IT infrastructure investment.
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Key factors considered when installing network infrastructure
Cable Management
Following a successful structured cabling installation, networking cables should be well organized at the server room or data center. Lack of cable organization means that cables, both power and data cables will be running all over the place. With this kind of clutter, the risk here will be the network going down when someone steps on a cable and accidently disconnects it. Cables running all over is a danger to IT specialist who might trip, fall down and get injured. By all means, clutter in the server room should be eliminated.
Therefore, cable organization is recommended not only for personnel safety but also for general neatness. Also, well managed networking cables makes it easy to trace different data points particularly during troubleshooting. As a matter of fact, all cables terminated on the patch panel should be well labeled. If labeling is done properly, then network administrator can easily tell which patch cords connects to what to device. For example, label the patch cord connected servers, wireless access points and even uplinks to sub networks.
Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)
All devices installed in the server room should be connected to UPS to ensure uninterrupted operation in case of a power failure. Critical network devices usually mounted on the rack include network switches, Next GEN firewall, the ISP router, IP PBX system, VoIP gateways. All these network devices should be excluded from direct power connection. Instead, they should be connected to clean power. In this case, use of power distribution units (PDUs) is highly encouraged instead of the ordinary power extension cables. The goal here should be to protect the network devices from power surges.
Server Room Cooling System
The Cooling system play an important role by ensuring that temperatures inside the server room remain low to recommended level. The main goal of installing a cooling system should be to maintain the server room temperatures and humidity levels at a level recommended. Also, when IT equipment get exposed to a hot environment they tend to wear out faster and even malfunction in the process. Ideal humidity level should be maintained to protect network devices from damage.
Organizations are advised to have in place valid service contracts. Hence, the cooling systems can be inspected regularly. Key components such as air filters checked and other worn out parts replaced if need be. Regular servicing will ensure proper equipment operation at all times.
Server Room Security
The server room and indeed the data center is a critical place. Being the heart of the entire IT infrastructure, server room and data centers should be protected adequately. The first form of security is the biometric access control systems. By installing server room access control, only authorized personnel will have access.
The second form of security is the CCTV cameras installation. CCTV surveillance will help especially when a physical security breach detected. Hence, CCTV cameras allows for play back of events and the evidence gathered can be used to further strengthen the infrastructure security. Also, CCTV recordings can help particularly when prosecuting a criminal activity. A separate space to be set aside to keep spare IT hardware. This is to enhance accessibility when needed and also reduce clutter in the server room.
see; biometric clock in clock out system
Server Room layout
As a rule, the server room should be constructed a few inches above the ordinary floor level. So, in case of running taps, the water will not flow into the server room. Cable containments and trunkings should run along the edges of the wall or above the ceiling space. Another key consideration is that the server room should not be exposed to water leaks. Condensation can also be a danger to the networking infrastructure.
Fire suppression system should be installed in the server room so that in case of a fire there is an automatic remediation. Still, fire extinguishers should be available, that is, the CO2 and water extinguishers.
Contact us today for a complete networking infrastructure installation in Kenya ranging from structured cabling, cable management to network device setup and installation.
