Guide to Networking Software

Networking software systems keep your network running efficiently and securely

By Judy Artunian, Freelance Writer

1. Networking software systems are becoming more self-sufficient, but they still need human monitoring. If you can’t afford to hire an in-house network administrator, outsource the job.
2. The security program within your networking software system has its limits. The passwords that your employees use to access the network should consist of a combination of numbers and upper- and lower-case characters that other people can’t easily associate with the password owner. To be on the safe side, ask employees to change their password every three months.
3. If you’re installing a new network, start the planning process about 90 days before you want to deploy the network. This will give you time to establish your network’s business objectives so that your network design team can identify the right networking software and hardware for your needs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Keep tabs on your system with network management software

Network management software lets network administrators monitor the network as well as identify and fix problems before they disrupt daily operations. Network support software can also deliver statistics that reveal how employees and others use your network.

I recommend: CiscoWorks SNMS is a web-based network management software program designed for small to medium-sized businesses that have 40 or fewer devices, such as switches and routers. It also monitors third-party IT devices and applications. The ManageEngine OpManager’s capabilities include automatic discovery of networked devices, continuous status polling of devices and services and continuous monitoring of the health of critical devices. The Apple Remote Desktop 3 network management software system manages networked Macs by providing detailed software and hardware reports, automating routine management tasks and many other network management functions. AirWave’s AMP is wireless networking software that manages your wireless network.

Networking support software that secures your network

With hackers infiltrating computer networks, and computer viruses wreaking havoc, you can't afford to let your networking software security measures become outdated.

I recommend: Symantec’s Network Access Control Starter Edition, designed for simple implementation, allows you to set your own parameters for network access. CA's Threat Management offerings include server-protection product suites for small and medium-sized businesses. Network support software can’t do it alone. Develop a security plan that meets your company’s unique requirements with the help of Cisco Systems’ Cisco Security Policy Builder.

Networking software that backs up and recovers your data

Today's data backup and recovery networking software makes the process so simple, there is no excuse for not backing up your data on a regular basis. Consider factors such as the type of data you generate, which applications are responsible for producing the most data and how urgently you would need access to your data.

I recommend: Network support software such as Iron Mountain’s LiveVault is a disk-based server backup and recovery service for small and medium-sized companies. Your servers are continuously backed up and your data can be stored at secure Iron Mountain facilities or at your own data center. IBM Tivoli Continuous Data Protection for Files protects networking software systems by backing up your most critical files as soon as you save them. It also provides access to previous versions of your files. For more data backup services,see the directory at Business.com.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're new to the process of integrating networking management software and hardware devices, purchase your software from value-added resellers. They can help you sort through the complexities of system integration.
• •  Supplement your network support software by developing a network security plan and distribute it to all employees. The plan should explain policies and procedures that all employees must follow.
• •  Networking software for data backup can be over-used. Some companies back up so much data that it taxes their storage and network capacities. Consider archiving data that you rarely access on a separate storage system.