Information Systems Network Infrastructure for Companies

What is Information Systems Network Infrastructure?

Information systems network infrastructure is fundamentally defined as the technological resources that ensure the healthy operation of a company organization, the management of corporate environments, and the effective functioning of operations. It creates a fundamental platform for managing internal business processes, providing services, and collaborating with customers.

When we talk about information systems network infrastructure, a vague and abstract world forms in the mind. For those unfamiliar with it, servers, networks, data, software, firewalls... it may seem like we’re describing a complex system built by aliens in an office environment. To better understand what information systems network infrastructure entails, consider the following analogy:

Imagine Shakira's concert… She is like a shining star on stage, right? Every detail of the stage show has been carefully prepared… sound systems, lighting, dancers, etc. A flawless performance. But behind this flawless performance, there are hundreds of people and a system working in perfect harmony. What makes Shakira who she is, is the backstage operation that runs smoothly. We can liken information systems network infrastructure to this operation.

Therefore, we can say that information systems network infrastructure is of vital importance for companies.

What Needs Does Information Systems Network Infrastructure Address in an Office Environment?

• Fast and secure data sharing

• Healthy and effective communication

• Access to necessary applications, databases, and resources for business operations

• Easy management through centralized control

• Continuity and efficiency

What Are the Components of Information Systems Network Infrastructure?

There are three main components for designing and implementing information systems network infrastructure: hardware, software, and network infrastructure. Each component provides different services and can be adjusted and applied according to the needs of the business. This flexibility allows the network infrastructure setup to be tailored to offer the best solution for a company’s specific needs.

Let’s briefly look at the components of information systems network infrastructure:

• Hardware
  It includes the physical tools used in a company’s IT environment. It encompasses data centers and servers, as well as computers, tablets, and phones.

• Software
  Hardware and software are the components that work together in the information systems network infrastructure. Software answers how the hardware tools will be used and what can be done with them. It mainly includes operating systems, databases, application servers, customer relationship management (CRM), enterprise resource planning (ERP), and content management systems.

• Network Infrastructure
  It allows the connection between the organization's internet access and different devices, offices, and data centers. It is used for transmitting and receiving information.

We’ve discussed the scope and importance of information systems network infrastructure for companies, highlighting how it acts as an enabler, facilitator, and developer in business processes. Therefore, ensuring the smooth functioning of this infrastructure is essential for the sustainability of the business.

How is the Maintenance of Information Systems Network Infrastructure Done?

To ensure that the information systems network infrastructure is used efficiently and effectively, regular maintenance activities need to be performed.

In maintenance processes for information systems network infrastructure, the following actions should be taken:

• Monitoring hardware devices

• Software updates and improvements

• Data backup processes

• Monitoring network performance

• Ensuring network security

Security of Information Systems Network Infrastructure Network infrastructure security includes all the tools and methods used to protect the information systems technologies used in business processes. With the digitalization and globalization of business practices and the ability to access software applications from different places and devices, the issue of "data security" has become more critical for companies.

Malicious individuals and attackers may attempt to:

• Access security vulnerabilities in publicly available services such as email, websites, and remote access,

• Gain access via insufficient Wi-Fi security or sensitive data obtained from employees,

• Use ransomware and malware,

• Take advantage of lack of backups or inadequate backups,

• Exploit service interruptions due to outdated or insufficient technology.

How to Ensure Security of Information Systems Network Infrastructure?

To ensure the security of information systems network infrastructure, various security methods exist, including both physical and virtual protection modes.

In addition to creating a good security strategy, continuity and consistency should be prioritized.

Security measures for protecting the infrastructure include:

• Antivirus systems designed to monitor, identify, and remove malicious software,

• Firewalls that control data traffic within the network,

• Virtual private networks (VPNs) that encrypt the connection and data transmission between network endpoints,

• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) that monitor the network for online threats and breaches.

Data Backup in Information Systems Network Infrastructure

Data backup is the process of protecting data in the network and preventing data loss. With proper data backup, businesses can minimize the impact of unexpected failures and issues.

How is Data Backed Up in Information Systems Network Infrastructure?

The steps to perform data backup are as follows:

1. Identify Data Categories
   Determine which data (e.g., customer information, financial records, emails, documents) needs to be backed up based on its importance.

2. Determine Backup Frequency
   Decide how frequently data should be backed up, which can be daily, weekly, or monthly depending on its importance.

3. Choose Backup Method
   Data can be backed up using external hard drives, network-attached storage (NAS) devices, or cloud storage services.

4. Define Backup Strategy
   Determine how long backed-up data will be retained before being deleted, depending on the category of data. Deleting obsolete data helps keep backup storage efficient and organized.

5. Test the Backup
   Regularly test the backed-up data by restoring it to ensure it is solid and free of issues.