How can you audit and review your network hardware policies?

1 Identify your network hardware inventory

The first step in auditing and reviewing your network hardware policies is to identify and document your network hardware inventory. This includes all the devices that connect to your network, such as routers, switches, firewalls, servers, workstations, printers, scanners, cameras, and IoT devices. You need to collect information such as device name, type, model, serial number, location, IP address, MAC address, firmware version, configuration settings, and ownership. You can use various tools, such as network scanners, inventory management software, or configuration management databases (CMDBs), to automate this process and keep your inventory up to date.

2 Assess your network hardware performance

The next step is to assess your network hardware performance and identify any issues or bottlenecks that may affect your network operations. You need to monitor and measure key performance indicators (KPIs), such as bandwidth, latency, packet loss, uptime, availability, and utilization, for each network device and segment. You can use various tools, such as network analyzers, performance monitors, or network management systems (NMSs), to collect and visualize this data and generate reports and alerts. You should also conduct regular network tests, such as ping, traceroute, or speed tests, to verify the connectivity and speed of your network devices and links.

3 Evaluate your network hardware security

The third step is to evaluate your network hardware security and identify any vulnerabilities or risks that may compromise your network data and resources. You need to check and enforce the security settings and policies for each network device, such as passwords, encryption, authentication, authorization, access control lists (ACLs), firewalls, VPNs, and antivirus software. You can use various tools, such as network scanners, vulnerability scanners, or penetration testing tools, to scan and audit your network devices and detect any security gaps or breaches. You should also review and update your network security policies and procedures regularly and train your staff on network security best practices.

4 Compare your network hardware policies with industry standards and best practices

The fourth step is to compare your network hardware policies with industry standards and best practices and identify any areas for improvement or alignment. You need to research and benchmark your network hardware policies against the standards and best practices of your industry, such as ISO, NIST, ITIL, or COBIT. You can use various sources, such as online resources, publications, forums, or consultants, to access and learn from these standards and best practices. You should also consider the feedback and suggestions of your stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, partners, or regulators, to ensure your network hardware policies meet their expectations and requirements.

5 Update and document your network hardware policies

The fifth step is to update and document your network hardware policies based on the findings and recommendations of your audit and review process. You need to prioritize and implement the changes and improvements that are most relevant and beneficial for your network goals and objectives. You should also document and communicate your network hardware policies clearly and consistently to your network staff and users. You can use various tools, such as policy templates, policy management software, or wikis, to create and maintain your network hardware policy documents and records.

6 Monitor and review your network hardware policies regularly

The final step is to monitor and review your network hardware policies regularly and ensure they are effective and efficient. You need to establish and follow a schedule and frequency for your network hardware policy audit and review process. You should also use various tools, such as feedback forms, surveys, or audits, to measure and evaluate the impact and outcomes of your network hardware policies and identify any gaps or issues. You should also keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in your industry and technology and adapt your network hardware policies accordingly.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?