Introduction to Modern Networking Solutions

In the 21st century, the world is changing rapidly and technology is driving the change. For a business or individual, having the most updated networks will be the cornerstone of business success. The new high-tech collaborative way of operating has become vital for industries as they continue to evolve and embrace digitalization. This puts a premium on keeping contacts with global business networks secure and functional. NextGEN IT Solutions can provide the best solution to your networking needs.

Networking, in this regard, is not just about getting devices to talk to each other, but creating an infrastructure to support your business, secure your communications and maximize productivity. Now, with people working away from the office, applications and data stored in the cloud, and smart devices connecting to a network, it is more challenging than ever to support and secure your network. We offer everything from installing physical hardware such as routers and switches, to sophisticated network-management software and security platforms to make sure that your communications are flowing and secure, no matter where they are going to.

Hardware: The Backbone of Networking Solutions

The routers, switches and access points that make up the hardware of a network serve to physically support and manage data flow. When a user connects to a device on a different network, they require a piece of networking hardware to connect the two called a router. For example, if you connect your computer to a broadband router at home to get on the web and then attempt the same from work, your computer will require another router to pass between the two networks. Without such a router, you will not be able to reach the web. Another piece of networking hardware that is integral to wired and wireless networks are switches. Switches provide a means by which multiple devices can be connected together on the same network to communicate and share resources. For example, a switch can be attached to the broadband line at home providing your computer and other devices with internet access by connecting them to the switch, as well as other devices in your home such as smart TVs and speakers. When used with wired devices, the consequence of not being connected to a switch is a loss of functionality. However, if not connected to a switch, smart devices such as TVs and speakers would effectively appear ‘off’ or ‘not available’. The final piece of hardware needed for a network to operate is an access point, which provides the means to connect to the network wirelessly. This is particularly important when devices have wireless functionality but are not equipped with or capable of connecting to wires – for example, laptops, smart phones, tablets, as well as smarter devices like TVs and speakers.

Other hardware is becoming much faster and more capable too. Gigabit speeds are now commonplace, with the latest router and switches supporting a massive number of connections at any one time. This is great for those in business with large data transfer requirements. In wireless, Wi-Fi 6 and beyond has raised the bar for performance, with much-improved levels of speed, latency and efficiency in high-density environments, meaning a more reliable network in locations where lots of devices are being connected.

Software: Optimizing Network Performance and Security

Although hardware is the primary infrastructure for networking, without software it would be a valuable tool for moving information that lacked management and optimization features. Network management software provides a collection of critical tools for both monitoring network activity and managing resources to anticipate and resolve problems. For instance, network management software can contain feeds and dashboards of real-time analytics that enable businesses to learn when and how traffic might be slowing down, and other bottlenecks that can be responsible for poor workflow.

Security software also plays an important role, protecting networks from a growing number of attacks via the Internet. Firewall, antivirus, intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) are main security measures that together form the basis of a good security policy. They help prevent unauthorized data access, detect and prevent attacks, and protect sensitive information during transmission. Moreover, encryption technologies encrypt the data in the communication network to prevent it from being intercepted and changed.

Additionally, the use of virtualization technologies has been growing in networking: virtualization enables a company to use a virtual network that is not tied to the physical network but is created virtually. This makes the network much more flexible and scalable, and lets businesses quickly scale up or down on their network infrastructure as needed. Virtualized networks can often be divided (or segregated) so as to improve the network’s vision and security by placing different parts of the company on geographically disparate networks while still placed on the same physical infrastructure.

Services: Comprehensive Support and Expertise

However networking providers might supply not just hardware and software, but also the services that can ensure your network is trustworthy, operational and efficient. Managed services at NextGEN IT Solutions comprise of network design, implementation and maintenance in order to develop secure and effective network capacity.

Our team of experts constantly monitor and maintain your network to minimize down time and efficiently address issues before they impact your business. Cloud networking is offered by members of our network to provide flexibility and scalability. Businesses can adjust their resources based on dynamically changing demands, and easily add infrastructure when needed. Cloud networking eliminates the need for hardware, which saves money and provides flexibility in managing networks.

Network Security: Protecting Your Data

As networks became larger and more fundamental to business functions, the need for network security had to keep up with the times. Hackers’ methods for accessing networks and stealing sensitive information continue to evolve in sophistication and difficulty to overcome. Should a cyber-attack breach network security, a company could face financial losses, tarnished reputation, and substantial legal repercussions.

Security is an important part of every networking solution developed by NextGEN IT Solutions. One of the ways we keep our clients’ networks safe is with multiple layers of security, starting with firewalls that lock out intruders before they reach their targets. Firewalls are virtual blockades that allow only authorized traffic to flow in and out of networks. Firewalls can halt potentially harmful data packets and stop intruders before they can infiltrate protected systems. Along with firewalls, we employ intrusion detection and intrusion prevention systems. Such software can flag suspicious activity and stop an attack before it starts.

Our second pillar is cryptography, achieved through the enciphering and decipherment of data, both in transit and at rest. Data can be stolen, but it cannot be interpreted, unless the recipient has access to the encryption key. Strong encryption is an essential component of enterprise security, no matter what you might hear from governments trying to eradicate it. Consider the example of financial transactions, credit-card details, personal data or intellectual property. Our solutions can also include secure VPN solutions, ensuring staff connect remotely to the Corporate Intranet safely and securely, from any location around the globe.

Innovations and Future Trends in Networking

Development of the field of networking never stops. What these intertwining changes mean for tomorrow is an exciting area on the horizon. One of the hottest trends is the widespread proliferation of 5G communications. This is technology on the cusp of mainstream acceptance that features high data-rate and low-latency properties which will enable myriad new applications: fiber-like experience on mobile networks, virtual reality applications, smart infrastructure and more.

IoT is another fast-growth area of technological evolution. This involves connecting everyday objects that are not inherently technological – such as household appliances, industrial machinery, vehicles – so that they can collect and exchange data. The additional capabilities that result from this connecting up of computers and sensory apparatus, into a single ecosystem, could propel industrial, economic and even social efficiency and automation to entirely new levels. In manufacturing, the devices collect data on real-time equipment performance to predict maintenance needs, revolutionizing production efficiency. In smart cities, they can be employed to manage traffic, save energy, monitor and track individuals and especially in the case of smart policing, enhance public safety.

AI is also rapidly playing an augmentative role in management of networks. Network managers can benefit from AI-fed solutions that can analyze large amounts of network data to flag certain patterns, potentially predict problems and allow more granular automation. On top of the network improvement and speed benefits that allow users to multifold activities, network AI solutions can quickly mitigate potential security threats – be it a one-off issue in routing that could result in internet outages, or a cyber-attack that could disrupt a mission-critical application. For example, as demonstrated by Akamai, AI can pick up a sign of a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack, which involves fake traffic by bad actors who want to disrupt a server and crash certain websites or applications that are hosted, to name just one risk.

Referred to in more technical terms as edge computing, this is a second major trend that’s reorienting network thinking in terms of how traffic is routed to where it can be best used. With edge computing, information processing takes place much closer to the source of data than it does in traditional cloud computing, which takes place in highly centralized data centers. The shorter distance involved results in much faster resolution of problems, something that’s needed for such uses as autonomous cars and augmented reality.

Choosing the Right Networking Solution for Your Needs

The choice in networking solution is one of the most important in your business life which, over a long period, can impact any paid area. This production includes issues like size of your network, your budget, security needs, use case, and many others. NextGEN IT Solutions provides solutions engineered to a client’s business wishes because our experts understand that one size might not fit all.

While some businesses can function on a basic network using multiple port routers or single-port wireless routers, more advanced local area network strategies are needed for increased traffic. And for larger companies with more devices to connect and more elaborate security needs, to improve security and functionality, high-capacity switches, enterprise-grade routers and firewalls will be required. Whether it is for small home-based business, or a large company, the network hardware and software you choose should scale with your growing business, to handle a greater web traffic and to manage increased network activity as your business grows and continues to expand.

Budget is just another key factor. On the one hand, you want to buy quality networking equipment and services. On the other hand, you want to make sure that you are getting your money’s worth. We have options available to fit most budgets — from entry-level, small-business solutions to expensive, enterprise-scale solutions.

Security is a business concern (and a life concern as well) and no business is immune to the threat that may come knocking at its digital front door. A security strategy should feature a cascade of defense systems that include, at the very least, firewalls and systems that encrypt data; intrusion detection and prevention systems; vulnerability assessment and management; and compliance. Different industry verticals have their own sets of security demands. Healthcare organizations need to function within tight systems that dictate how to handle sensitive data; financial institutions must recognize the advanced encryption standards required to protect sensitive activities.

The Role of Networking in Business Growth

With advanced networking solutions, lacking in the modern business world is almost impossible. Networking is crucial not only for the business success but also for keeping your business at the forefront of growth and competitiveness. A powerful network is a key factor in the efficiency and operation of any business. It enhances scalability and the core infrastructure for any new technologies. At NextGEN IT Solutions, we believe in the transform ability of networking in business, and we are driven to keep up with the change to provide solutions for your growing needs.

Supporting Business Continuity and Remote Work

One of the most prominent digital transformations of the past decade has arguably been the shift from the physical office to remote working. The Covid-19 pandemic merely fast-forwarded what a lot of businesses were already preparing for – the practical need of having a reliable and secure network in order to ensure that remote services can still be offered and protected.
A network that has been properly configured to support a Remote Working Strategy should allow employees to access company networks and resources from any location. This offers a great deal of flexibility for when employees need to work remotely and helps to keep productivity levels high even during uncertain times.
A proven way of implementing a remote working strategy is by putting in place infrastructure that includes a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to interact with the company network, or by using cloud-based services, or any other secure remote access services.

For example, a multinational corporation may need to set up a VPN (virtual private network) so that its employees can log on securely to the company’s internal network from all over the world. This makes it possible for teams working in different locations to collaborate seamlessly, while also maintaining a high degree of protection for sensitive corporate information. Cloud-based services broaden this possibility by allowing employees to access documents, applications and data wherever they are, as long as they have internet access. Therefore, employees who may want to work from home, or who are taking care of a sick relative, can maintain a better work/life balance.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Once again, networking solutions can help improve the customer experience.A fast and reliable network is essential for businesses that serve customers via digital platforms such as websites and online services. An e-commerce company, for example, needs robust networks to cope with a surge in traffic at busy shopping times. A network that struggles to keep up with demand will result in lost sales and unhappy customers. An investment in new networking infrastructure can help ensure that your website and other online services perform well at all times, even when demand is high.

Furthermore, networking solutions can promote individualised customer experiences. Consequently, these businesses can capture and analyse customer-related information such as experience, behaviour and interaction to better tailor marketing contents, support and services, and enhance innovation into products that suit customers’ requirements. An illustrative scenario is that an online retailer can potentially utilise data analytics to identify products that your customers would be interested in buying, given their historical purchasing behaviors, hence enhancing customer experience and stimulating sales.

Facilitating Innovation and Collaboration

Network infrastructure is also required to innovate and collaborate, since businesses often operate across multiple locations and time zones. Shared communication and collaboration tools are powered by network infrastructure in order for members to work together. Video conferencing, collaborative software and real-time data sharing need a robust network backbone for them to work.

A simple example of this could be a technology company that has distributed teams building products for new software development teams in San Franciscoiro, and by having-time, share large files quickly, and communicate effectively through video calls. This helps the company to be able to use global talent to reduce its development cycle, and bring products to market quicker.

Networking Security: Protecting Your Business

With the rise of businesses that heavily rely on digital technologies, the importance of network security increases. Menacing hackers become smarter day by day, and data loses its value when stolen or manipulated in a cyber attack. It means that companies, no matter how big or small, are in need of skilled and competent IT engineers who can ensure that all their networking devices are protected against many types of menacing attacks. NextGEN IT Solutions, which specialises in offering network solutions, places the highest value on security.

Layered Security Approach

We ensure security at a number of layers, including firewalls, which prevent users from accessing our network without authorisation, as well as encryption, which protects data from exposure, and an intrusion detection system, which recognises threats and acts on them in real time. Meanwhile, for more sophisticated surveillance needs, we perform multi-factor authentication, in which users confirm their identity through multiple paths (eg, email, mobile phone).

Proactive Threat Management

Furthermore, we offer threat management services as a preventative measure on top of the above protection. Each network channel is monitored continuously for suspicious activity, frequent security checks are performed, and immediate response is provided to resolve any new vulnerabilities found. Our cybersecurity specialists make themselves privy to the latest threat intelligence, and are highly informed of the latest inefficient hacking methods. We can neutralise the threat ‘before it happens’, to protect our clients’ information and help them stay in business.

Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

In many industries, regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of network security. This is particularly true in healthcare, finance, and retail, which are bound by extensive regulations pertaining to data protection and privacy. Firms that do not comply can face stiff fines and legal sanctions. We support our clients in meeting these requirements by ensuring that all security measures adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines.

Innovations and Future Trends in Networking

The landscape of networking is in a constant state of flux. The latest technologies and trends pose new benefits and challenges to reshape the future of connectivity. Here’s what the experts at NextGEN IT Solutions are anticipating to be the next big thing for the future of networks and helping clients prepare for it.

5G and Beyond

It’s an exciting time for mobile connectivity. The launch of 5G networks offers considerable improvements in speed and latency, enabling a wave of new applications both within and beyond the mobile environment. Everything from autonomous vehicles to smart cities will be affected by 5G. For enterprises, 5G will improve mobile experiences, enhance the performance of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and enable new, data-intensive applications requiring higher bandwidth than ever before. As 5G expands its global reach, we’re ready to support our customers as they integrate 5G into their networks.

The Rise of Edge Computing

It highlights another trend: in its efforts to shrink latency, data is being processed ever nearer to its point of origin through a growing field known as edge computing. Applications from augmented reality through to industrial automation will benefit from edge computing, which reduces the amount of data flowing across the network and compresses the time it takes to get results. For example, factories can install edge computing to improve the performance of their networks and step down on the central data centre.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

We’re seeing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning used increasingly in network management and security. These technologies can handle a lot of data quickly. AI can sift through large amounts of data in the network to detect patterns and anticipate future trouble spots. It can even automate responses to those problems, improving both network performance and ultimately security. For instance, AI working with a network can constantly change the network rules to increase throughput and decrease latency.

The Growing Importance of IoT

The Internet of Things (#IoT) is still growing, more and more devices are getting connected all the time, for business this can mean an improvement to their operational efficiency and even new ways to deliver services to customers. However, all these connected #IoT devices need to be properly managed, monitored and secured, at #NextGENIT Solutions we provide a range of services for networking, managing, securing and analysing devices for #IoT connectivity.

Choosing the Right Networking Solution

Deciding upon the right networking solution can be very tricky and involves many factors. NextGen IT Solution value our clients, as we help them to see the capabilities of a particular solution through their needs.

Assessing Your Needs

The first question you have to ask yourself is what kind of networking solution you need. For this you will have to consider your current but, more importantly, your future needs: what is the size of your network? How many devices do you have? What kind of applications you use? And how secure do you need them to be? We look, plan and analyse to identify where your current network might be lacking and determine how exactly we fill those gaps.

Budget Considerations

Budget is also an issue. You might need to spend money on top-end networking hardware and services, but you will also need to keep a tight grip on your budget. That is why we have offerings designed at multiple budget points, from low-end offerings for small businesses, to mid-range and high-end, enterprise-grade solutions for larger companies.

Scalability and Future-Proofing

As your business becomes larger, you may want to expand your networking footprint, too. When this happens, you will need to be able to scale your systems. It is for this reason that we also pay attention to future-proofing our networking solutions. This means that we look for systems that can be upgraded in their hardware and software, that can be expanded in case of future needs, and, importantly, our networks are also designed to be flexible and capable of being restored to optimal working order in case of a fault.

Security and Compliance

Security is one of the key issues when it comes to a network. Our solutions will include all the needed security measures so that your data will be safe from any unwanted troubles. If you need information to be encrypted or if you want to ensure you comply with data protection laws and the like, or if you want to fight any cyber-attacks, we have all the tools for that.

The Future of Connected Empowerment

In conclusion, I believe that every business needs robust networking solutions in order to succeed in a digital landscape. An efficient network is a prerequisite for your growth, innovation and security. At NextGEN IT Solutions, we will do our best to help our clients build and maintain networks for their businesses.

Utilizing our services gives you the potential to offload a lot of different tasks, starting from secure network design, implementation and maintenance. With our experience in network services, not only can we provide a great service, but it will also free up your employees for serving your core markets.

In today’s fast-paced digital arena your company needs to remain always in touch and keep your network secure. Allow us to inspire your vision into the future of networking and digital solutions. Reach out to us to see what NextGEN IT Solutions can do to further your network and support your business objectives.