Network Hardware Management

Network Management

• Network management involves strategies for effectively managing network hardware and its maintenance.

Hardware Management and Maintenance

• Regular hardware maintenance is essential for optimal network performance.

Cleaning Routines for Network Equipment

• Regular cleaning, including dusting shelves and vacuuming keyboards, prevents overheating and maintains operating conditions.
• Network equipment should be cleaned every two weeks.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for specific devices like printers and monitors during cleaning.

Monthly Hardware Inspections

• Monthly inspections are helpful for identifying potential hardware issues before they worsen.
• Includes tasks such as checking cooling vents for dust, ensuring fans are working, and inspecting cables for wear.
• Sniff tests can detect overheating components that might indicate imminent failure.

Upgrading Firmware

• Firmware upgrades are crucial for maintaining hardware performance and compatibility.
• Manufacturer websites should be checked regularly for updates.
• Installation needs to be performed carefully on all devices, including critical systems like the BIOS.

Maintenance Practices

• Maintenance practices are essential to keep a network and it's hardware in optimal opperation.

Performing Regular Inspections

• Regular inspections need to focus on the physical condition of hardware to check ventilation.
• Listen for unusual noises, and ensure all systems are functioning properly.
• Proactive inspection approach prevents unexpected downtime and enhances reliability.

Checking Cable Integrity

• Routinely examine all network cables for signs of damage and ensure secure seating in connectors.
• Addressing frayed or visibly damaged cables immediately by replacing them, can help avoid future issues.

Ensuring Proper Cooling Systems

• Maintaining optimal cooling systems is crucial for preventing hardware failure.
• Regularly check that cooling vents are unobstructed and that fans are operational.
• Monitor the temperature levels in server areas so air conditioning units or cooling mechanisms function effectively.
• Proper airflow and cooling systems can extend the lifespan of equipment.

Upgrading Hardware

• Upgrading hardware when necessary improves user experience and keeps the network up to date.

Factors for Hardware Upgrades

• Performance demands from newer applications or increased workloads often drive hardware upgrades.
• Existing hardware needs to be evaluated for its ability to support new features or software updates.
• Future needs that may require higher hardware specifications need to be considered as an organization grows.

Necessary Upgrades for Performance Issues

• If the current setup experiences slowdowns or inefficiencies, consider upgrading components like RAM, storage drives, or processors.
• The upgrades should focus on resolving specific performance issues to enhance user experience and task efficiency across the network.

Optional Upgrades for Enhanced Experience

• Optional upgrades include larger monitors for better visibility, improved graphics cards for enhanced video performance, or faster networks for increased connectivity.
• These improve user satisfaction and productivity, but not essential for operation.

Repair Strategies

• It is good to repair hardware when possible
• This can save money and hardware
• Repairing should always be an option

Assessing Warranty Coverage

• First thing you need to do when a hardware component fails, is check if it’s still under warranty.
• Warranty services often cover repairs or replacements at no additional cost.
• Understanding the terms and duration of warranties helps in making informed repair or replacement decisions.

Cost-Effectiveness of Repairs vs. Replacements

• Evaluate whether repairing a broken device is financially sensible compared to replacing it.
• Factors such as repair costs, reliability of the repaired device, and potential downtime should influence this decision.
• This ensures that resources are allocated effectively.

Evaluating Equipment Lifespan

• Regular assessments of equipment lifespan should be based on usage patterns, performance metrics, and overall condition.
• A timeline for replacement should be established based on anticipated technological advancements and wear and tear.
• Establishing these baselines can help prevent unexpected failures and helps to maintain efficiency.

Administering and Supporting End Users

• Administering new users for security purposes includes vetting new users for security purposes.
• Adding, deleting, and changing end-user accounts is a component of Administering.
• Administering also includes creating and administering group, role based, and individual access controls and providing technical support.

Adding New Workstations and Peripheral Devices

• Adding new workstations and peripheral devices to a network often requires some software-based setup.
• Setting up new devices include assigning IP addresses, connecting printers to print servers, and setting up user access rights.
• When installing seek the documentation for proper configurations.

Virtualization in Cloud Computing

• This section will cover cloud technology

What is Cloud Computing?

• Cloud computing refers to the delivery of IT resources via the internet as per the demand.
• Implementation happens on a pay-as-you-go pricing basis.
• Cloud computing seeks to offer a solution to users' IT infrastructure needs.

Why Cloud Computing?

• Traditional methods require a lot of human input, expensive equipment, and logistical resources.
• Traditional technology requires large sums of money.
• Cloud computing can fix these issues with cost savings and scalability

Cost Savings

• Cloud computing decreases capital expenditure.
• Cloud computing helps with lowering operational costs.

Scalability

• Cloud computing helps to easily scale resources up or down.
• Cloud computing helps adapt to changing needs.

Flexibility

• Cloud computing gives you access to a wide range of services.
• Cloud computing helps customize environments.

Features of Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing is characterized by efficiency.
• Efficiency through distribution network for fast resource sharing.
• Reliability minimizes infrastructure failure with multiple servers.
• Cloud computing offers you scalability and on-demand resource provision without extensive staffing.
• Collaboration enables resource sharing and efficient teamwork.
• accessibility Cloud removes location barriers for users.
• Ease of Maintenance Applications don't need individual installations.
• cost Savings It eliminates infrastructure setup costs and allows pay-per-use.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing offers low cost.
• Cloud computing provides accessibility anywhere.
• Cloud computing has simplified applications.

Benefits of Cloud Computing (Continuation)

• Cloud computing provides you access to powerful computing resources without the typical cost and complexity.
• Cost Savings: You can use inexpensive computers to perform complex tasks through cloud servers.
• Organizations can save money on IT infrastructure and maintenance.
• Cloud servers are incredibly powerful for task completion.
• You have access to vast storage capacity at low costs through great scalability.
• Software updates are automatic with Cloud computing, no managing outdated applications.