Network maintenance in 10 essential steps

Network maintenance is the backbone of uninterrupted business operations.

It is essential for minimizing downtime, enhancing security, and optimizing performance. Without it, you're risking downtime and security breaches.

Understanding what steps to take to perform network maintenance and why can prevent costly outages, protect against cyber threats, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

From regular updates to disaster recovery testing, this guide covers:

• What network maintenance is
• Who conducts network maintenance
• Essential steps to take for network maintenance
• How Meter can help

What is network maintenance?

Network maintenance is a series of ongoing tasks aimed at keeping your network secure, efficient, and up-to-date. These tasks range from updating software and firmware to monitoring network performance, securing the network, and more. The goal is to keep the network operating optimally at all times.

Consistent maintenance helps identify potential issues before they escalate, promoting continuous and reliable network performance. Proactively addressing these tasks enables you to prevent disruptions, reduce downtime, and maintain a stable and secure network environment.

Who conducts network maintenance?

Network maintenance is conducted by people in various roles, including IT departments, network administrators, MSPs, and specialized network engineers. Each of them tends to focus on different aspects of the network:

IT departments

IT departments handle routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

Their responsibilities include:

• Addressing day-to-day technical issues
• Performing regular system checks
• Maintaining the network's overall health

They are the first line of defense when it comes to overseeing the integrity and performance of the network.

Network administrators

Network administrators focus on managing network performance and security.

They configure and monitor network hardware and software, oversee network traffic, and implement security measures to protect against cyber threats. They play an important role in optimizing network functionality and assuring efficient operations.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs)

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer outsourced network maintenance services. Companies like Meter provide comprehensive solutions that integrate hardware, software, and operations, allowing businesses to focus on core activities.

MSPs manage all aspects of network maintenance, from installation and configuration to ongoing monitoring and support, allowing businesses to focus on their core activities without worrying about network issues.

Specialized network engineers

Specialized network engineers conduct complex maintenance and upgrades.

They handle tasks that require advanced technical expertise, such as designing and implementing new network designs, performing in-depth diagnostics, and executing large-scale upgrades. Their expertise is necessary for safeguarding the robustness and scalability of the network.

Step-by-step guide to network maintenance

What does it mean to maintain a network? Here's a practical guide to effectively controlling your network that covers essential tasks for optimizing performance and security.

1. Regularly update firmware and software

Keep all network devices updated with the latest firmware and software to preserve your network security and performance. Firmware and software updates often include patches for known security vulnerabilities, bug fixes, and enhancements that improve the functionality and stability of your devices.

Why updates are essential:

• Security patches: Protect against threats by addressing vulnerabilities.
• Performance improvements: Enhance device functionality and stability.
• Compatibility: Assure smooth operation with other network components.

How to implement an update strategy:

• Automated update systems: Reduce the risk of human error by using automated update tools.
• Scheduled updates: Plan updates during low-traffic periods to minimize disruption.
• Testing before deployment: Test updates in a controlled environment to identify potential issues.
• Backup configurations: Backup current settings before updates to restore if problems occur.
• Vendor support: Stay informed about new updates from manufacturers.

2. Monitor network performance

Sustaining a reliable and efficient network will require that you monitor network performance. By continuously tracking performance metrics such as bandwidth usage, latency, and error rates, you can quickly identify and address potential issues before they affect your users.

Importance of monitoring:

• Early issue detection: Identify problems early to prevent major disruptions.
• Resource optimization: Optimize bandwidth allocation and overall network efficiency.
• User experience: Provide a consistent and high-quality experience for users.

How to start monitoring network performance:

• Choose the right tools: Meter offers you a patented dashboard for optimal network performance monitoring.
• Track key metrics: Focus on bandwidth usage, latency, and error rates.
• Set up alerts: Configure alerts for predefined thresholds to respond quickly to problems.
• Analyze trends: Use historical data to identify patterns and plan for necessary upgrades.
• Regular reporting: Generate reports to review network health and performance over time.

3. Backup configurations

Backup all network configurations for quick recovery in case of hardware failure or other issues. This practice safeguards your network's stability and minimizes downtime, allowing for a swift restoration of normal operations.

Importance of backing up configurations:

• Quick recovery: Restore network settings rapidly to minimize downtime.
• Protection against errors: Revert to stable settings if a configuration change causes problems.
• Compliance and auditing: Retain backups for compliance and audit purposes.

To create a backup strategy:

• Automate backups: Use Network Configuration Manager tools for consistent backups.
• Schedule regular backups: Align with network activity patterns to minimize performance impact.
• Store backups securely: Use offsite locations or cloud solutions for added security.
• Version control: Manage multiple backup versions for flexibility.
• Test backups: Regularly test restoration processes to ensure reliability.
• Document the process: Keep detailed records of backup procedures and schedules.

4. Conduct security audits

Perform regular security audits to assist in identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in the network. These audits assist in maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of network resources by systematically evaluating the security posture and implementing necessary improvements.

Importance of security audits:

• Identify vulnerabilities: Address weaknesses proactively.
• Enhance security policies: Keep security measures up-to-date and effective.
• Compliance: Meet industry regulations and avoid penalties.

Steps to conduct a security audit:

• Review firewall configurations: Support effective blocking of unauthorized access.
• Update antivirus definitions: Keep software current to protect against new threats.
• Verify compliance: Regularly check adherence to security policies and regulations.
• Use automated tools: Utilize tools like Nessus for vulnerability assessments.
• Perform penetration testing: Simulate attacks to identify vulnerabilities.
• Assess user access controls: Implement the principle of least privilege.
• Document findings and actions: Keep detailed records for future reference.
• Educate and train staff: Regularly update staff on security best practices.

5. Optimize network settings

It’s important to regularly review and optimize network settings to prolong high efficiency and performance. This involves fine-tuning various aspects of the network to verify that data flows smoothly and resources are used effectively.

Importance of optimizing settings:

• Improves performance: Reduces latency and increases throughput.
• Maximizes efficiency: Confirms optimal use of network resources.
• Enhances reliability: Leads to more stable and predictable performance.

Steps to optimize network settings:

• Adjust QoS settings: Prioritize critical applications to secure necessary bandwidth.
• Reconfigure IP addressing schemes: Simplify management and improve scalability.
• Update routing protocols: Use efficient protocols like OSPF or BGP.
• Optimize wireless settings: Enhance coverage and reduce interference.
• Implement VLANs: Segment traffic to reduce congestion and improve security.
• Regular performance reviews: Analyze traffic patterns and adjust settings as needed.

6. Clean physical components

Care for your physical network components, such as routers, switches, and servers, to safeguard the health and longevity of your network. Dust buildup can lead to overheating, which can cause hardware failure and reduce the lifespan of your equipment.

Importance of cleaning physical components:

• Prevents overheating: Dust obstructs airflow, leading to overheating and hardware failure.
• Extends equipment lifespan: Regular cleaning conserves optimal conditions.
• Upholds performance: Clean components function more efficiently.

Steps to clean physical components:

• Turn off and unplug devices: Protect yourself from harm before cleaning.
• Use compressed air: Remove dust from hard-to-reach areas without damaging components.
• Wipe surfaces with microfiber cloths: Use gentle, effective cleaning methods.
• Clean air filters and vents: Control airflow by keeping these components clean.
• Check cable management: Prevent dust accumulation and improve airflow.
• Establish a cleaning schedule: Regularly clean based on equipment usage.
• Educate staff: Train staff on cleaning best practices.

7. Document network changes

Keep detailed records of any changes made to the network for effective troubleshooting and future planning. Comprehensive documentation provides a clear picture of the network’s evolution, helping to diagnose issues quickly.

Importance of documenting network changes:

• Facilitates troubleshooting: Helps identify the root cause of issues quickly.
• Supports future upgrades: Provides insights for planning modifications.
• Provides consistency: Reduces the risk of miscommunication and errors.

Steps to document network changes:

• Record configuration changes: Document modifications to firewall rules, router settings, and more.
• Log hardware upgrades: Track details of hardware changes for future reference.
• Update network topology maps: Maintain accurate visual representations of the network.
• Track software updates and patches: Keep records of update details.
• Preserve change logs: Use change management software to log all modifications.
• Establish documentation standards: Develop and enforce consistent documentation practices.
• Regularly review and update documentation: Guarantee accuracy and relevance.

8. Test disaster recovery plans

Make certain to regularly test disaster recovery plans for a better chance of a swift recovery in the event of network failures. By simulating different failure scenarios, you can verify that backups can be restored and services reestablished within acceptable time frames.

Importance of testing disaster recovery plans:

• Validates recovery processes: Affirms effectiveness in real-world situations.
• Identifies weaknesses: Helps uncover gaps in the recovery plan.
• Certifies compliance: Meets regulatory standards and requirements.

Steps to test disaster recovery plans:

• Define failure scenarios: Identify potential failures to test the plan's robustness.
• Schedule regular tests: Keep the plan current and effective.
• Simulate real-world conditions: Conduct realistic simulations.
• Verify backup restoration: Test backup data restoration.
• Evaluate RTO and RPO: Measure recovery time and data loss tolerance.
• Document and analyze results: Record findings and address any issues.
• Update and refine the plan: Continuously improve the disaster recovery plan.
• Train staff and conduct drills: Make sure that everyone knows their roles.

9. Educate staff on best practices

Train staff on network best practices and security measures to help prevent human error and enhance network security. Regular training sessions keep the team informed about the latest threats and mitigation strategies, fostering a culture of security awareness.

Importance of educating staff:

• Prevents human error: Reduces mistakes that compromise network integrity.
• Enhances security: Staff can recognize and respond to threats.
• Promotes compliance: Certifies adherence to regulations and policies.

Steps to educate staff on best practices:

• Develop a training program: Cover all necessary topics comprehensively.
• Conduct regular training sessions: Keep staff updated on best practices.
• Focus on security awareness: Teach staff to recognize potential threats.
• Update training materials regularly: Keep content current with emerging threats.
• Incorporate real-world scenarios: Use practical exercises to reinforce learning.
• Provide accessible resources: Establish continuous learning with easily available materials.
• Measure training effectiveness: Assess and improve training impact.
• Encourage a culture of security: Promote shared responsibility for security.

10. Schedule regular maintenance

Establish a routine maintenance schedule to proactively address potential issues and ensure a smooth-running network. Regular maintenance tasks should be documented and assigned.

Scheduling regular maintenance is important because it prevents unexpected downtime by identifying and fixing problems before they cause disruptions. You need to confirm the optimal functioning of network components in order to address security vulnerabilities and apply the necessary patches.

Steps to schedule regular maintenance:

• Create a maintenance calendar: Organize and plan tasks systematically.
• Identify key maintenance tasks: Ensure comprehensive coverage of needs.
• Assign responsibilities: Designate specific team members for each task.
• Document maintenance procedures: Provide a reference for consistency.
• Conduct regular reviews: Assess the effectiveness and make improvements.
• Automate routine tasks: Reduce human error with automation tools.
• Track and report maintenance activities: Stabilize visibility and identify trends.
• Plan for emergency maintenance: Be prepared for unexpected issues.

Next steps: Meter can help simplify network maintenance

Meter offers comprehensive solutions that integrate hardware, software, and operations, making sure that all aspects of network management are streamlined and capable. Meter also supports your existing network engineers, helping them do more to keep your network robust and secure.

Meter simplifies network maintenance through:

• Integrated solutions: Our custom-built hardware and advanced software guarantee seamless compatibility and optimized performance.
• Turnkey services: From ISP procurement to network design and installation, we handle the entire setup process, leading to a smooth rollout.
• Proactive monitoring: Real-time insights and automated alerts help quickly identify and resolve issues, keeping your network running on all cylinders.
• Automated updates: Regular firmware and software updates are automated to enhance security and performance without manual intervention.
• Scalability: Our solutions scale with your business needs, supporting everything from small offices to large enterprises.
• Enhanced security: Advanced security features and regular audits protect your network from cyber threats and maintain compliance with industry standards.

Find out more about what Meter can offer your business by scheduling a free personalized demo.