Poor configuration management is probably the number one cause of a host of operational problems faced by network managers. Many either don’t know how to create standardized methods to implement external and self-motivated changes or underscore the importance of having workable network management solutions for their networks.
Whatever category you fall into, the truth of the matter is that if you want fewer network outages and enhanced network performances, you must focus on your network configuration and change management. To achieve this, you must understand some, if not all, of its best practices. Here is a quick overview of some of the most important practices that you can implement:
1. Plan, plan, plan
True and effective change doesn’t come unless after a concise plan. This doesn’t have to be grand though—even a simple written down plan of the work ahead does the trick. Document the exact steps you want to take to effect the change, the action plan on how to verify the success of the change and measures to take in case of any problem.
2. Make all processes automatic
Even the simplest form of human error can mean disaster when it comes to network configuration. It can lead to time wastage and wrong executions. The only way to address this is to automate all tasks assigned to the network team. These include startup configurations, backup files, and password changes. This way, network managers can expedite all repetitive tasks, manage configuration changes across all devices and maintain compliance standards for IT flows.
3. Track of configuration changes
Another best practice to take note of during a network configuration and change management is to keep track of all changes. This makes the auditing process easier. You might want to set up alerts and notifications to assist you to know the exact changes made, when they were made and the person who made them.
4. Back things up
You never know when you will need backups. Things happen. Your switches can come up blank. Your software devices can crush. Don’t wait until you are faced with the predicament; make backing up a continuous ritual.
5. Maintain standard network configurations
To address network configuration problems, it is also a great idea to create standard configurations for specific devices such as LAN switch, router, ATM switch, or WAN switch. This seems pretty obvious but quite overlooked.
A good system of doing network configuration doesn’t have to be complicated. Some of the most basic rules will suffice. You can make or break your career as a network administrator by adherence, or lack thereof, to them.
