An information technology (IT) infrastructure is a collection of hardware, software, and services that enable an organisation to function effectively. Servers, storage devices, and networking equipment, as well as any other devices or software that support these systems, comprise an IT infrastructure.
A hybrid workplace is a relatively new model, but it is much appreciated, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all model. It is more appropriate for businesses where the majority of the work can be done online.
When converting your company to a hybrid workplace, you should take your time to ensure that the IT infrastructure is up to date and functioning properly.
Seven Strategies To Strengthen IT Infrastructure
Although the transition can be difficult, there are ways for you to prepare your IT infrastructure for the change and strengthen it. This business blog article lists seven strategies, including:
- Leveraging a security operations center
- Identifying risk mitigation strategies
- Choosing a cloud solution provider
- Creating automation rules for compliance
- Using virtualization technology
- Setting up a mobile management system
- Establishing a disaster recovery plan
1. Leverage A Security Operations Center
2. Identify Risk Mitigation Strategies
When it comes to cybersecurity, risk mitigation strategies should not be overlooked. They ensure that cyber incidents are contained and prevented, with the primary goal of reducing the likelihood of a data breach.
There are numerous ways to reduce risk in your hybrid workplace. However, you must first identify the most risky areas of your IT infrastructure and then work to mitigate those risks. This includes putting in place safeguards for data backups, software patch management, and virus protection.
Controls for the network itself, such as firewalls or other security tools, should also be implemented to protect against external attacks. Furthermore, you should not disregard controls for critical applications such as email or file sharing, which may be vulnerable in the absence of additional security measures.
3. Choose A Cloud Solution Provider
Once you’ve identified the most vulnerable areas of your IT infrastructure, it’s time to select a cloud-based service provider. This is where things get complicated—there are numerous options, but they all operate on similar models.
Choosing a cloud solution provider with experience dealing with similar situations and establishing security policies for each region is an ideal way to ensure that your organisation is protected against these risks.
The only way to know which is appropriate for your situation is to speak with an expert who can assist you in determining what type of solution will work best for your needs.
4. Develop Automated Rules For Compliance
One of the most important things you can do to ensure the smooth operation of your hybrid workplace is to create automated compliance rules.
If you don’t have compliance rules in place, you’ll have to rely on manual processes and other people to keep your operations running smoothly. These policies are necessary to ensure that all employees use the appropriate technology and stay up to date. Employees, for example, should use the same device when working on and off-site. Using multiple devices for work purposes may cause issues with how the system operates.
When developing automated compliance rules, think about what devices your employees use the most and make sure they have access to them whenever they need it. If you don’t want them to use their personal devices for work, give them a laptop or desktop computer. This allows them to stay up to date on the latest software and security updates without fear of losing data or making mistakes on their devices.
5. Use Virtualization Technology
Virtualization technology allows you to separate physical machines and run multiple operating systems on them at the same time. nThis enables better backup capabilities and more efficient resource utilisation within your organisation.
Furthermore, virtualization provides greater flexibility in terms of pricing and the type of hardware required to support your application requirements.
Consider whether you need to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine when selecting virtualization technology for your hybrid workforce. If so, use a hypervisor that supports this level of flexibility.
Hypervisors, also known as virtual machine managers, allow organisations to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine.
6. Set Up A Mobile Management System
A mobile management system (MMS) is essential in your hybrid workplace. You can manage your employees’ devices on the ground, in the air, and even on the move thanks to the technology. That means you can track their location and availability from anywhere at any time. If their device is lost or stolen, you can also remotely wipe data from it.
When choosing an MMS, you must consider its capabilities as well as its security features. You may want one with advanced encryption capabilities to ensure that sensitive data is not compromised by hackers or government agencies seeking information about your company. You also want one that provides broad coverage and can be accessed from multiple devices, allowing employees to access it while away from the office.
7. Establish A Data Disaster Recovery Plan
Creating a disaster recovery plan is one of the most important steps in safeguarding your IT infrastructure. This document will assist you in determining who should be responsible for your data, how they should collaborate, and what their roles should be in the event of a disaster.
When developing a data disaster recovery plan, you should consider all scenarios in which your company could experience an unexpected outage due to human error or equipment failure. You must determine whether any processes or procedures can be used to mitigate these risks or whether additional training is required for employees to avoid these issues entirely.
Key Takeaway
Finally, IT leadership and management must understand how their workplace is evolving. As their employees transition physically into a world of virtual work, IT leaders must understand the complex technologies they are implementing to keep those remote workers connected and productive.
Leaders like you can use this guide to improve your IT infrastructure as you transition to a hybrid working environment. You can protect your data and networks from cyberattacks if you follow these steps.
By avoiding downtime, you can continue to exceed your clients’ expectations.
