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Modern organizations depend on their networks to handle the most basic of tasks. If you're looking at network management options, though, you'll need to understand the basics. Clients should understand how the following 5 factors affect their networks.

Connectivity

This represents the bare minimum of network functionality. Devices on your network need to be able to detect each other and connect. Likewise, you'll probably want your network users to have internet access. On some networks, this is a fairly straightforward problem. You might plug in a modem, a decent switch or router, and several computers. Also, you'll probably have some Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

However, as networks grow more complex, connectivity can become an issue. You might have to add subnets for departments. Some networks can expand beyond a single building or geographic location. Network management will become critical as you need to start tracking assets and users.

Security

Most organizations have at least some information they'd prefer to keep secure. Network security management has to address internal and external threats. You will need to limit user access to resources using a model that offers minimum necessary access.

Also, you'll have to monitor external connections for potential threats. This includes blocking ports, monitoring traffic, and analyzing logs. Similarly, you'll want to monitor outbound connections to ensure nothing compromised on your network is talking with outside systems.

Capacity

Organizations need to have overhead for growth. This can be challenging, especially if you're working on a tight budget. The goal is to have enough capacity on your network to handle your current needs and whatever growth you might project over the next 5 years.

This includes having sufficient network security management solutions to match expected growth. Similarly, you'll want to have a robust ecosystem of devices to manage the traffic. It's better to install a bit too much in the early days than run out of capacity down the road.

Availability

Network failures can be costly, especially at businesses that transact regularly across their networks. Consequently, availability is critical. You will want to monitor the network for outages and slowdowns. As you identify availability issues, your network management services provider can help you fix them.

Provisioning

The assignment of network resources will dictate how your organization will perform in the other four areas. Provisioning resources requires planning. Likewise, it may require flexibility as your operation's needs change. A network management firm will make sure you're making the most of all your available resources.