What if you could unlock the full potential of your network, boost performance, and improve scalability all at once? It’s possible with proper network optimization. When done correctly, optimization can greatly enhance the efficiency and reliability of your network.
However, certain mistakes can hinder your optimization efforts and prevent you from receiving the benefits. We’ll identify five of the most common network optimization mistakes and provide practical and achievable solutions.
Mistake 1: Ignoring Regular Network Assessments
Failing to regularly assess your network’s performance is a costly mistake. Many businesses make the initial effort to complete network optimization, then fail to revisit and update it as needed. As technology evolves, so do the needs of your network—so neglecting to reassess can result in undetected issues, outdated configurations, reduced efficiency, and security vulnerabilities.
Solution: Keep To a Tight Assessment Schedule
Create a schedule for regular network assessments, and stick to it. The frequency of assessment will depend on the complexity and size of your network, but a general rule of thumb is to assess at least once per quarter. Be sure to include comprehensive testing and monitoring during each assessment to identify any bottlenecks and keep your network up-to-date.
Mistake 2: Overlooking Bandwidth Requirements
Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transmitted in a certain amount of time. Miscalculating or underestimating your bandwidth requirements is a common mistake that leads to network congestion, slow execution, and user frustration.
Plus, if your company frequently needs high-bandwidth tasks like video conferencing, cloud-based applications, or data transfers, an improper bandwidth allocation will result in poor performance.
Solution: Conduct a Bandwidth Analysis
Review your network’s bandwidth requirements and usage regularly to determine accurate needs based on current and anticipated usage. Allocate enough bandwidth to meet those needs without compromising performance for other tasks. If needed, consider upgrading your network infrastructure to handle higher bandwidth demands.
Mistake 3: Using Outdated Network Hardware
Relying on outdated routers, switches, and other equipment can severely impact your network’s performance, leading to the following problems:
- Slow speed
- Higher failure rates
- Frequent downtime
- Restricted compatibility with modern technologies
Solution: Perform Regular Hardware Audits & Lifecycle Management
Create a hardware lifecycle management plan and stick to it! Regularly auditing your network equipment will help identify outdated hardware and provide an opportunity for upgrades. This practice will ensure that your company is equipped with the latest technology, allowing for better performance and compatibility.
Mistake 4: Failing to Prioritize Network Security
Have you fallen into the trap of optimizing for speed only? Ignoring security in your network optimization efforts is a grave mistake that can lead to costly data breaches and damaging downtime. With the ever-growing threat of cyber attacks, cybersecurity should be a top priority for any business.
Solution: Use All of the Biggest Security Best Practices
Start with firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems—but remember, no single solution can provide 100% security. That’s why it’s vital to take a layered approach using multiple security measures for maximum protection.
Mistake 5: Overcomplicating Network Configuration
If you’re reading this article and making an extremely complicated network configuration plan, stop! It’s easy to overthink and create a setup that’s more complex than necessary. Complex configurations and excessive customizations are tougher to maintain and troubleshoot, leading to inefficiencies and higher support costs.
Solution: Keep Your Setups As Simple As Possible
Streamline your configurations by keeping setups simple. Avoid customizations that can complicate your network and create potential security risks. Instead, choose a scalable configuration that strikes the right balance between simplicity and functionality. You should also document any change meticulously to prevent oversights and improve future troubleshooting.
Bonus Solution: Work With Simple Systems to Guarantee Success
As a professional managed services provider, Simple Systems can help you avoid every mistake in the book. Our professional team members are specially trained to design, implement, and maintain network optimization solutions that maximize your performance. Gain a partner in success by contacting us today!
