Any time a company needs to improve, update, or make additions to their current network or install a new system, costs and overheads can quickly escalate For this reason it is important that a business have a professional audit their system. In this article I will explore some of the things that you can expect to happen during a network audit, why they are important and how they can benefit your businesses systems.

When a network is professionally audited, this enables a better understanding of the current configurations within the network. In addition, it helps a company to effectively utilise the components that are currently on the system. Plus, a company becomes better informed of other types of technologies they can implement on the current architecture as well as a whole host of other essential information.

Essentially, a network auditor looks to identify any kinds of deficiencies present within the current set-up. In addition, they need to ensure that it complies with the latest legislations and business requirements. Asset tagging is also checked, whilst also ensuring the business has enough insurance in order to protect the assets they have. Through network auditing, a company ensures its efficiency, compliance, along with aiding them with asset management.

One of the first things that an auditor does involves their familiarisation with the current physical infrastructure and topology of the network. This involves a visual inspection of the components, which are vital to the day-to-day functionality of your system. During this time they check on the labelling used to identify different areas of wiring on the system and whether it is easy to identify.

Other things that are noted have to do with whether the serial number and model of the components are easy to find. Environmental requirements are compared to the current equipment location. An inventory is also done on the amount of routers and switches currently on the system. The network auditor additionally utilises software to help with the identification of areas that need to be addressed.

While checking the network’s configurations, the hard wiring is also checked to make sure that it does not have a length longer than 100 meters. In addition, they check on the assignment and recording documentation of network names and addresses. Mostly they check this to make sure everything is structured and well documented.

Security of the overall system is also a priority, as well as the inventory of switches and routers and equipment location. An assessment is also done to determine the amount of power it uses according to the set configurations. With this type of information a company is well informed of what they can expect to spend in the future on the network, as well as enabling them to better plan for any kinds of office expansions.

Due to the efficiency of performing regular and thorough audits, the company is actually able to optimise their cash flow. This is done through the identification and replacement of older components on the system. In the end, a company becomes better informed of the bugs within their system that they need to address in addition to staying prepared for any type of future crisis.

Author Bio: Vincent Rogers is a freelance writer who writes for a number of UK businesses. For information on Network Auditing Services, he recommends Network 24.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: Network Audit,Network Services,Network Support,Network Support Services