If you have a network running at home or in your business, you know that keeping it in optimal condition is essential to avoid problems. Although technologies change and devices are updated, there are some maintenance tasks that cannot be overlooked. In this article, I’ll walk you through a list of key tasks so that your network is always on point and you don’t have performance issues.
Keeping a network running requires more than just installing cables and devices. Periodic maintenance is key to avoiding unforeseen failures and guaranteeing performance. In this article, you will discover the essential tasks that you should include in your network maintenance checklist, so that everything works as it should and you don’t get any unpleasant surprises.
Configuration Backup
The most critical task on any network is to ensure that data is protected. Regular backups are essential, and it is not only about making them, but also about checking that they are done correctly and that the files are recoverable. There’s nothing worse than needing to recover information only to discover that the backup is useless. Depending on the type of network and the needs of your environment, you can make daily or even real-time backups. Make sure copies are stored in a secure location, ideally away from the main location, to protect against physical failures such as fire or theft.
On any network, it is essential to backup the following:
- Router or firewall configuration: once we have the router or firewall well configured, it is very important to make a backup copy of the brain of the network, especially if you are going to touch different configurations, to be able to go back easily.
- Switch configuration: if you have manageable switches with VLANs, you will also have to save the configuration files, in case at a certain point you need to reset it and return to the previous configuration.
- Configuration of access points: if we have several APs, the most normal thing will be to have a Wi-Fi controller, either by hardware or software, and we could even have it directly in the cloud. Regardless of where you have the Wi-Fi controller, it is necessary to back up the applied settings, in case you make a change and something goes wrong.
As you can see, it is very important to make a copy of the current configuration of all network devices.
Firmware and documentation update
All network equipment usually has firmware updates from the manufacturer, with the aim of correcting possible errors, but also to add new functionalities and features. In the case of networks, it is very important to check the firmware versions and always be up to date, since this will ensure that we will have the latest security patches, so that our network is not in any danger. Without a doubt, the most important firmware of all is that of the router or firewall, since it is the one that is directly connected to the Internet and can be a victim of different types of cybercriminal attacks. For this reason, keeping this equipment perfectly updated is essential to protect the network as much as possible.
Network documentation may seem tedious, but keeping it up to date is essential for troubleshooting and auditing. Every time you make a modification to the network, be sure to record what you did, why you did it, and when. This will save you future headaches if you need to remember what changes you made or if others have to manage the network in your absence.
Another essential task is to keep an updated inventory of devices connected to the network. It’s a good idea to create a naming convention for devices so you can quickly identify their location and purpose. This includes recording the IP and MAC addresses of each device, which will make it easier to manage and diagnose problems.
Organization and cleaning
Cable chaos is a more common problem than it seems. Keeping cables organized not only improves the aesthetics of the environment, but also prevents problems such as accidental disconnections or failures due to damaged cables. Use labels and organizers to keep cables in place, and perform regular checks to make sure everything is in order.
Dust is one of the worst enemies of network devices, as it can clog air filters and cause an increase in temperature, which in turn affects equipment performance. Be sure to regularly clean the devices and replace the air filters when necessary to avoid overheating.
These tasks, although simple, are vital for your network to function properly and remain secure. Whether you manage a small network at home or a more complex one at work, following this checklist will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Remember that network maintenance is not something you can ignore, since good prevention is always better than expensive repair.
