I like to think of infrastructure as everything from wall jack to wall jack. Thinking of infrastructure in this manner enables effective conversations with those who are less familiar with the various components. The term IT infrastructure is defined in ITIL as a combined set of hardware, software, networks, facilities, etc. (including all of the information technology related equipment) used to develop, test, deliver, monitor, control, or support IT services. Associated people, processes, and documentation are not part of IT Infrastructure. SwitchingA network switch is the device that provides connectivity between network devices on a Local Area Network (LAN). A switch contains several ports that physically connect to other network devices, including:
Early networks used bridges, in which each device “saw” the traffic of all other devices on the network. Switches allow two devices on the network to talk to each other without having to forward that traffic to all devices on the network. RoutersRouters move packets between networks. Routing allows devices separated on different LANs to talk to each other by determining the next “hop” that will allow the network packet to eventually get to its destination. If you have ever manually configured your IP address on a workstation, the default gateway value that you keyed in was the IP address of your router. FirewallsFirewalls are security devices at the edge of the network. The firewall can be thought of as the guardian or gatekeeper. A set of rules defines what types of network traffic will be allowed through the firewall and what will be blocked. In the simplest version of a firewall, rules can be created which allow a specific port and/or protocol for traffic from one device (or a group of devices) to a device or group of devices. For example, if you want to host your own web server and limit it to only web traffic, you would typically have two firewall rules that look something like this:
The source is the originating device. In this case, ‘any’ means ‘allow any computer to communicate’. Destination is the specific IP address of your internal web server. Port/Protocol defines what type of traffic is allowed from the source to the destination. Most firewall devices allow for a description for each rule that have no effect on the rule itself. It is used only for notes. Firewall devices can get complicated quickly. There are many different types of firewalls which approach managing traffic in different ways. Detailed firewall capabilities and methods are beyond the scope of this post. ServersA network server is simply another computer, but usually larger in terms of resources than what most people think of. A server allows multiple users to access and share its resources. There are several types of servers, with the following being among the most common:
Physical plantThe physical plant is all of the network cabling in your office buildings and server room/data center. This all too often neglected part of your infrastructure usually is the weakest link and is the cause of most system outages when not managed properly. There are two main types of cabling in the infrastructure: Each type of cabling has several different subtypes, depending on the speed and distance required to connect devices. PeopleBy the strict ITIL definition, people are not considered part of the network infrastructure. However, without competent, well-qualified people in charge of running and maintaining your infrastructure, you will artificially limit the capabilities of your organization.
Server rooms/data centerThe server room, or data center in large organizations, can be thought of as the central core of your network. It is the location in which you place all of your servers, and it usually acts as the center of most networks. Infrastructure softwareInfrastructure software is perhaps the most “gray” of all infrastructure components. However, I consider server operating systems and directory services (like MS Active Directory) to be part of the infrastructure. Without multi-user operating systems, the hardware can’t perform its infrastructure functions. Related reading
These postings are my own and do not necessarily represent BMC's position, strategies, or opinion. See an error or have a suggestion? Please let us know by emailing . Information technology (IT) infrastructure is critical to maintaining and improving the overall employee performance and productivity of your business. A strong network of IT infrastructure components, such as hardware, software, and data storage, makes your business operations run better and faster. A weak one, on the other hand, slows down work processes or leads to inefficiency. With businesses becoming increasingly digital, the need for strong IT infrastructure management has become critical. If you’re someone responsible for the effective use of technology at your business, this blog is for you. We discuss the role and importance of IT infrastructure components and how they help build and maintain robust IT infrastructure that ensures smooth communication, fast exchange of information, and secure data sharing within your business. 1. HardwareHardware refers to the physical components that form the core of IT infrastructure. Some examples include computers, laptops, printers, and storage devices. IT infrastructure components such as software and applications need hardware to function properly. Hardware allows users to input data into the systems and store and share it. It works hand in hand with software applications to communicate with the users. The speed and adaptability of your infrastructure depend on hardware. That’s why you should upgrade your hardware components as per the latest technological changes. Things to keep in mind: Hardware components are expensive and take up a significant portion of the IT budget. Here are a few factors to consider while buying hardware:
2. SoftwareSoftware is a set of instructions—in the form of codes—that enables hardware devices to function. Hardware and software cannot work without each other. For example, a computer cannot work without an operating system, and an internet service cannot work without a web application and a computer. In simple terms, software directs hardware to do its job. It helps automate tasks that are either time-consuming or prone to human errors. These tasks include day-to-day activities such as data entry or analysis. Using software enhances efficiency by saving time and effort, which can be used to complete other tasks that add business value. Things to keep in mind: Software is a crucial component of your business’s IT infrastructure. Therefore, you should carefully consider the available solutions against your business needs and budget. Here are some things to consider while buying software:
3. NetworkNetwork is a combination of hardware and software to support your business’s technology environment. For instance, computers are connected to printers through wires and a wireless connection to perform tasks. This connection is networking, and the wires are the network infrastructure. Networking requires both hardware and software components to provide adequate support in the form of network infrastructure. Its components allow communication and collaboration between users, applications, and work processes via the internet. The hardware and software components of network infrastructure include the following: Things to keep in mind: Without adequate network infrastructure, your business could face security issues or poor user experience that can impact productivity. Here are some ways to build strong and secure network infrastructure:
4. Data centerData center is a physical or virtual space to store and manage business information and applications. It provides employees secure, uninterrupted access to information and applications. Data center infrastructure comprises servers, storage devices, computer applications, security systems, and routers. These components ensure smooth internal and external communication and secure storage and management of your business’s information. Things to keep in mind: Data is critical for informed decision-making; therefore, its dependability, security, and access should be your top priorities. Here are some ways to keep your data center secure, adaptable, and manageable:
5. Remote connectivityRemote connectivity is the process of virtually connecting, sharing, and managing business resources and assets in a digital workplace. With remote connectivity, stakeholders (e.g., clients, employees) can access data and files from any location, and the technical support team can track and manage business assets using tools such as a virtual private network (VPN). Remote connectivity adds flexibility to work processes and enhances efficiency. It allows your business to function properly in a distributed (hybrid, remote, or in-office) environment using supported devices, platforms, and networks. Things to keep in mind: Information security is one of the major concerns when working remotely. Here are some ways to facilitate a secure remote work environment: Strengthen your business’s IT infrastructureWhen talking about IT infrastructure management, automation can be a great way to get it right. Businesses are increasingly automating their IT infrastructure operations to boost efficiency and productivity. But, is automation a complete solution? Watch the video to get your answer. Infrastructure components play a crucial role in establishing a stable and efficient IT infrastructure. Right from selecting hardware to identifying supporting software, connectivity, and integration solutions, everything needs to be thoroughly and carefully implemented. This will help keep your business needs and technology resources in sync, leading to effective IT infrastructure management. |