Importance of a Clean Network Room

There are many variables that make up a business’s communication. One of the most obvious is the hardware and where it is stored. Keeping a clean network physically is as important as keeping it clean on the virtual side. Networking and telecommunications equipment all have moving parts that are subject to fail. Here are some easy tips that will increase the lifespan of your communications backbone.

            Keep the temperate of the room at a low level. This is the most talked about issue since it involves running the AC at all hours and a steady level. The cost of having the AC run continuously can be staggering, but is nothing compared to replacing equipment regularly due to high operating temperatures. Small networks can be maintained by a simple vent that keeps the air flowing. Larger networks are higher risk due to more devices producing heat. This added heat and poor ventilation can spell death for computers, routers, switches, and phone systems. Some solutions may be as simple as keeping a fan running or installing a dedicated AC unit for the communication room.

            Dust is deadly for electronic equipment. It does not take long for dust to build up on nonmoving equipment. Small particles will begin to land on top of the various devices as well as inside of them. This can lead to higher temperatures and potential electrical shorts. Keeping a can of compressed air in the office is common practice now. Taking a few minutes to spray the equipment of any dust will help the devices to live longer.

            Unmanaged cable running everywhere is a technician’s worst nightmare. When maintaining any size network it is important to have proper labeling as well as proper cable management. Taking the time to trace a cable that plugs into a switch or tracing a cable that supplies dial tone can be frustrating as well as costly. Mislabeled or extra cable can even cause outages if plugged into the wrong areas.

            These are simple steps that can be followed to increase the longevity of your business’s communication needs. If they are implemented from the beginning it is easy to maintain for many years to come. If you need help with keeping your equipment in top shape please contact Allegiance today.