From seamless collaboration to efficient data management and customer service, nearly every aspect of modern business operations relies on a well-functioning network. Despite this critical importance, there's a surprising disconnect between recognition and action: while 95% of CEOs acknowledge the significance of their network, only 50% say their company prioritizes network technology.1
This gap between awareness and implementation underscores the need for businesses to better understand and invest in their network infrastructure. Network infrastructure refers to the hardware and software components that enable network connectivity, communication, and data transfer between a company's users, devices, applications, and the internet.
A reliable network infrastructure can boost productivity, enhance security measures, and increase your organization's agility in responding to market demands. On the flip side, poorly maintained networks often result in costly downtime, security vulnerabilities, and stunted business growth. Read on to learn everything you need to know about network infrastructure and how the right management solution can optimize your enterprise connectivity.
Comparing Wired And Wireless Network Infrastructure
A wired network uses physical cables, typically Ethernet, to connect devices to the network. In wired networks, data travels through these cables from end-user devices to switches and routers, creating a tangible network infrastructure.
A wireless network transmits data through the air via radio waves. Devices connect through wireless access points, offering businesses greater mobility and flexibility in device placement.
Recently, there's been a shift towards wireless networks in enterprise environments, with 58% of business leaders saying they're more confident in investing in Wi-Fi compared to a year ago.2 This trend is driven by:
- Mobility: The rise of mobile devices and the increasing demand for flexible work environments have made wireless connectivity essential.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Wireless networks can be more economical in the long term, especially for businesses requiring frequent reconfigurations.
- Technological Advancements: Improvements in wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi 7, have enhanced wireless network performance and reliability.
Despite the growing preference for wireless networks, most enterprise environments maintain a hybrid infrastructure, combining wired and wireless components to ensure optimal performance across all applications.
Types Of Network Infrastructure
Network infrastructure isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on business needs and technology strategy, organizations may rely on different types of infrastructure to stay connected and secure:
Wired Network Infrastructure
Traditional but highly reliable, wired setups use Ethernet cabling, switches, and routers to provide stable connections with minimal interference.
Wireless Network Infrastructure
Built on Wi-Fi and wireless access points, this option delivers mobility and flexibility, making it a staple in modern workplaces.
Cloud-Based Network Infrastructure
Instead of relying solely on physical devices, many companies now leverage cloud networking for scalability, centralized control, and simplified management.
Hybrid or Enterprise Network Infrastructure
Most large organizations adopt a hybrid approach, combining wired, wireless, and cloud elements. This blend supports complex needs across multiple locations, remote users, and advanced applications.
These types illustrate the range of infrastructure examples businesses can deploy, from small IT network infrastructure setups to enterprise-scale systems.
Essential Network Infrastructure Components
Network infrastructure is typically made up of a combination of hardware devices, software components, and network services, including:
Switches
Switches are central connection points for devices within a local area network (LAN). They direct data traffic between connected network devices, using MAC addresses to forward data packets efficiently.
Routers
Routers connect networks and determine the best path for data to travel. They use IP addresses to route data packets between networks and are key for connecting LANs to wide area networks (WANs) and the internet.
Servers
Servers host applications, store data, and provide network services such as DHCP, DNS, and file sharing.
Firewalls
Firewalls monitor and manage network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They work as a barrier between internal and external networks, helping prevent unauthorized access and security threats.
Network Interface Cards (NICs)
NICs are hardware components that allow devices to connect to a network. They provide the physical interface between a device and the network cable, enabling communication between the device and the network.
Ethernet Cables
Ethernet cables are the medium through which data travels in a wired network. Different categories offer varying performance levels based on network speed and distance requirements.
Patch Panels
Patch panels organize and manage network connections in structured cabling systems. They provide a centralized point for connecting devices and cables, simplifying network management and troubleshooting.
Wireless Access Points (WAPs)
WAPs bridge wireless devices and the wired network, enabling devices to connect without physical cables. Modern WAPs support various Wi-Fi standards and can handle multiple connections simultaneously.
Network Operating Systems
Network operating systems (NOS) provide the software foundation for managing network resources, user accounts, and security policies in both wired and wireless infrastructures.
Network Management Software
Network management software applications monitor, configure, and troubleshoot network infrastructure components. They provide performance insights, identify issues, and facilitate efficient network management.
Network Security Appliances
Beyond firewalls, security tools like intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), virtual private network (VPN) concentrators, and network access control (NAC) systems protect both wired and wireless infrastructures.
Common Challenges In Managing Network Infrastructure
While a robust network infrastructure is essential for modern businesses, implementing and maintaining it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common network infrastructure challenges IT teams face:
Scalability Issues
A 2022 survey found that 70% of CEOs believe their network is hindering business growth.1 This can be especially challenging if the initial network infrastructure design didn't account for future growth, as scaling up may require investments in new hardware, software upgrades, and system reconfiguration.
Security Threats
Maintaining network security is an ongoing challenge as cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated. Businesses must constantly update their security measures to protect against new threats while ensuring these protocols don't restrict network performance or user accessibility.
Obsolescence
Network infrastructure components can quickly become outdated. Many companies face the challenge of balancing the need to upgrade with budget constraints and the potential disruption to operations that upgrades can cause.
Technology Integration
Incorporating new technologies like IoT devices, cloud services, or 5G networks into existing network infrastructure can be complex. These integrations often require significant planning and may require changes to the entire network architecture.
Skills Gap
Over 40% of businesses struggle to hire and retain skilled IT professionals with the expertise to manage modern network infrastructures effectively.3
Bandwidth Management
As data-intensive applications become more common, businesses struggle to maintain sufficient bandwidth for all users and applications.
What Is Network Infrastructure Management?
Network infrastructure management involves overseeing, maintaining, and optimizing an organization's network infrastructure components. It aims to ensure the network operates efficiently, securely, and reliably to support business operations and goals.
Key Benefits Of Network Infrastructure Management
Effective network infrastructure management offers businesses several benefits, including:
Optimized Resource Allocation
Network infrastructure management can help businesses optimize resource allocation through careful monitoring and analysis of network traffic and usage patterns. This ensures critical applications and services always receive the necessary bandwidth and processing power, improving overall network performance and user experience.
Increased Operational Efficiency
Operational efficiency in network infrastructure management translates to significant time and cost savings. Automation tools can handle tasks like configuration backups, software updates, and performance monitoring, freeing up IT staff for more strategic work.
Faster Problem Resolution
Quick problem resolution is key to minimizing downtime and its impact on business operations. With the right tools and processes in place, many issues can be resolved before users even notice them. For problems that do affect users, a well-managed network infrastructure allows IT teams to quickly diagnose and target fixes, reducing frustration and maintaining productivity.
Reliable Network Connectivity
A 2024 report found that 45% of multi-location enterprises experience network connectivity loss and degraded service performance at least once a month.4 Proactive monitoring and maintenance help IT teams identify and address issues before they cause network outages or performance degradation. This leads to increased uptime and a more dependable network infrastructure, building trust among employees and customers who depend on consistent network access for their daily tasks and interactions.
Stronger Security Posture
A strong security posture goes beyond just implementing firewalls and antivirus software. Network infrastructure management involves regular security assessments, patch management, and implementing security best practices. This proactive stance helps businesses stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and maintain compliance with industry regulations, protecting both data and reputation.
Improved Compliance
Compliance isn't just about avoiding fines; it's about maintaining trust with customers and partners. Robust network infrastructure management makes it easier to demonstrate compliance during audits, implement required security measures, and adapt to new regulations. This proactive stance on compliance can be a competitive advantage, particularly in industries with strict data protection requirements.
Enhanced User Experience
A positive user experience encompasses reliable access to resources, consistent application performance, and seamless connectivity across different end-user devices and locations. When users can depend on the network to support their needs without frustration or delay, it leads to increased productivity, satisfaction, and loyalty.
Cost Savings
While investing in network infrastructure management may require upfront costs, it often leads to significant long-term savings. By preventing major outages, optimizing resource usage, and extending the lifespan of network components, businesses can avoid costly downtime and reduce unnecessary hardware purchases.
Better Capacity Planning
Effective network infrastructure management provides insights into network usage trends and growth patterns, which are invaluable for capacity planning – a must, as 37% of multi-location businesses struggle with inadequate connection capacity.5
Support For Innovation
Innovation often requires a robust and flexible network foundation. A well-managed network infrastructure can quickly adapt to support new technologies, whether it's accommodating a sudden increase in IoT devices, supporting AI-driven applications, or enabling edge computing for faster data processing. This adaptability ensures the network doesn't become a bottleneck to innovation but rather a catalyst for it.
How Network Infrastructure Management Tools Support IT Teams
Network infrastructure management software streamlines the monitoring, configuring, and maintaining of complex network environments. These tools use various network protocols to provide visibility and control over network infrastructure components.
Here's how they typically work:
Data Collection & Monitoring
Network infrastructure management solutions continuously collect data from network devices using protocols like SNMP, ICMP, and NetFlow. This typically includes device status, performance metrics, traffic patterns, and configuration details.
Centralized Dashboard
Collected data is presented in a centralized dashboard, giving network administrators a comprehensive view of the entire network infrastructure. These dashboards often include network topology visualizations, performance graphs, and real-time status indicators.
Automated Discovery
Many of these tools include features that scan the network to identify and catalog all connected devices. This information creates and maintains up-to-date network maps, which are crucial for understanding network structure and troubleshooting issues.
Performance Analysis & Reporting
Network infrastructure solutions analyze the data they collect to generate performance reports and identify trends or anomalies.
Alerting & Notification Systems
When unusual activities are detected, these tools send alerts to administrators to ensure potential issues are addressed promptly.
Configuration Management
Many network management solutions manage device configurations across the network. This includes backing up configurations, pushing updates to multiple network devices simultaneously, and ensuring compliance with predefined standards.
Automation & Orchestration
Advanced network infrastructure management tools often include automation capabilities for routine tasks like software updates or configuration changes. Some offer orchestration features to coordinate complex, multi-step processes across various network devices.
Security Integration
Many of these tools integrate with security information and event management (SIEM) systems or include built-in security features. This makes it easier for IT teams to correlate performance data with security events.
These capabilities allow businesses to maintain optimal network performance, enhance security, and streamline operations, supporting the complex network environments essential for modern business operations.
The Future Of Network Infrastructure
Network infrastructure continues to evolve, shaped by emerging technologies and rising business demands. A few key trends to watch include:
AI-Driven Management
Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into network monitoring tools, allowing predictive analytics, automated issue detection, and faster problem resolution.
SD-WAN & Edge Computing
Software-defined WAN and edge solutions enable enterprises to securely connect branch offices, cloud services, and remote employees while keeping latency low.
Wi-Fi 7 & Beyond
Advances in wireless technology promise faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections, strengthening wireless network infrastructure.
Zero Trust Security Models
As cyber threats grow more complex, Zero Trust frameworks are becoming essential in protecting network infrastructure technologies and devices.
For IT leaders, staying ahead of these innovations ensures that enterprise network infrastructure remains scalable, secure, and prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
Network Infrastructure FAQs
What Are Examples Of Network Infrastructure?
Examples include routers, switches, servers, firewalls, wireless access points, and network management software. Together, these devices form the backbone of IT network infrastructure.
What Are The Main Types Of Network Infrastructure?
The main types are wired, wireless, cloud-based, and hybrid infrastructure. Most enterprises today rely on hybrid or enterprise network infrastructure to balance flexibility, performance, and security.
Why Is Network Infrastructure Important?
A reliable network infrastructure ensures seamless communication, secure data transfer, and efficient business operations. Without it, organizations face downtime, reduced productivity, and higher security risks.
How Is Network Infrastructure Managed?
Through network infrastructure management, IT teams monitor devices, optimize performance, enforce security policies, and plan for future capacity needs. Many use dedicated management software to automate and streamline these processes.
Optimize Your Network Infrastructure With Tailwind
Network infrastructure underpins everything from data security and customer experience to operational efficiency and innovation capabilities. By investing in and optimizing your network infrastructure now, you're making an investment in your business's future competitiveness and growth potential.
At TailWind, we designed our local, scalable, and accountable NOCaaS solution to address the unique network challenges faced by multi-location enterprises. We'll leverage our experience, practices, and toolsets to solve your network problems quickly – or help you avoid them completely – so you can focus on key aspects of your business instead.
Ready to optimize your network infrastructure? Reach out to TailWind today to learn how our NOCaaS solution can streamline your enterprise IT operations.
Sources:
- https://www.techrepublic.com/article/ceos-network-slowing-growth
- https://wballiance.com/wba-industry-report-2024
- https://www.kentik.com/blog/what-do-network-teams-really-care-about-in-2024/#the-skills-gap-and-hiring-headaches
- https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/geo-distributed-businesses-research-2024
- https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/network-outages-hit-59
