As more and more companies turn to cloud-backed software to manage their internal processes and customer-facing services, network downtime has become an issue. Network lag-time, downtime and slow speeds decrease employee efficiency and impact customer loyalty.
Before choosing a software service provider or other data center, ensure that staff and management have the means to mitigate these common causes of network downtime.
1. Router Failure
Network downtime falters when routers are unable to sustain a strong signal between the network and server. When this happens in a residence, the typical solution is to reset the router. In a professional setting such solutions are hardly practical. The main cause of router failure is heat stress. Overworked and poorly maintained routers will fail before their time. Backup routing equipment will help during times of crisis, but maintaining a properly configured router, having it professionally installed and using antennas and boosters will help your organization make the most of existing routers.
2. Failed Upgrades and Patches
Upgrades and patches are essential in the prevention of hacking and other malicious attacks. They are also necessary when introducing new equipment and maintaining existing software and hardware. Unfortunately, failed upgrades and patches will cause network downtime due to excess strain on existing data storage capacity. Improperly configured patches and upgrades will hamper network configurations.
When selecting an IT partner or service provider, ask about lab testing prior to installation. Providers that have experience testing equipment and solutions are knowledgeable about possible problems and adept at making fixes.
3. Server Hardware Failure
Outdated hardware has a tendency to break down, especially when proper maintenance has not occurred throughout its lifespan. When choosing a service provider, request access to maintenance reports. In addition, familiarize yourself with the types of servers in use and whether or not the organization has a backup source and contingency plan should servers fail. Solutions like 4G/LTE technology offer high-speed backup solutions when traditional DSL servers fail.
4. Denial of Service Attacks
DNS attacks are caused when servers are bombarded by requests from bad actors. Network downtime increases as the server is slammed beyond capacity. A 4G backup solution is easy to deploy and does not require set-up or installation costs. Having this solution on hand in the event of a DNS attack can make or break a business. While other organizations are experiencing lag times and disruptions, your organization can deploy 4G. Customer and employee needs will remain uninterrupted.
5. Accidents and Natural Disasters
Power failures, excessive heat, fire and torn cables result in network downtime. A provider capable of quickly establishing back-up networks regardless of terrain or geography can overcome these issues. Before committing to a service provider, ask about backups for a variety of contexts.
Network downtime can lead to millions of dollars of losses. Customers will not be able to access your site. Inventory updates will not be properly reflected. Shipping becomes disrupted. Worker efficiency is negatively impacted. Choosing a service provider or IT professional for your network is not a small task. Consider your organization’s risks and decide on a professional telecom provider that offers proven solutions that mitigate downtime.