Network redundancy and failover are not mere buzzwords; they are essential strategies for enterprises aiming to minimise the impact of network disruptions. While disruptions can arise from various sources, including hardware issues, software update failures, or network congestion, the objective remains constant: maintaining business continuity.
Network redundancy, also known as link redundancy, involves a strategic approach where enterprises utilise multiple network service providers. This ensures that the network remains available even if one carrier experiences an outage or disruptions. By employing diverse Internet service providers (ISPs), such as AT&T or T-Mobile, and integrating redundancy capabilities like a hybrid WAN router, enterprises can break free from the shackles of a single point of failure.
Network failover is the physical process that enables redundancy, automatically diverting network traffic from a primary link to a secondary link when the primary one fails. This process is crucial for businesses looking to incorporate failure protection through diverse connection types, multiple carriers, routers, and additional power sources.
While the benefits of network redundancy are evident, the costs associated with it can be a concern. Similar to investing in insurance, enabling network redundancy may require significant financial commitment. However, there's a cost-efficient alternative: bandwidth augmentation. By utilising a cellular connection as a primary link for specific applications, enterprises can augment their network with more bandwidth, making redundancy a more economical choice.
Achieving network connection redundancy doesn't have to be complex. Here are four simple steps to enhance network reliability:
#1. Augment with Cellular Connection: Add a cellular connection to an existing wired setup for enhanced redundancy.
#2. Select a Vendor for Failover Solutions: Choose a vendor offering dual modem routers and software services for seamless failover between carriers.
#3. Choose Geographic-Friendly Carriers: Select two carriers based on coverage and availability in your geographic area.
#4. Configure WAN Connection: Set up failover options like simple failover or Smart WAN Selection based on business and technical needs.
Construction: For housebuilders with multiple sites, wireless branch continuity solutions offer instant failover protection during disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted services and maintaining projects stay on track.
Vehicles: Transportation and logistics companies managing vehicle fleets, such as trucking companies and ocean freight, depend on dual-modem cellular routers for active connections to multiple carriers, guaranteeing always-on connectivity during critical missions.
Before settling on a failover solution, enterprises should consider these key questions:
#1. Automatic Failover: Does the solution provide automatic failover to maintain seamless operations?
#2. Reliability and Security: Is the backup link reliable and secure, especially compared to wired connections?
#3. Deployment and Management: Is the solution easy to deploy and manage, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic tasks?
#4. Network Visibility: Does the solution provide comprehensive network visibility, reducing the risk of downtime through continuous monitoring?
In a world where connectivity is paramount, network redundancy and failover emerge as indispensable tools for enterprises striving to ensure business continuity. By understanding their significance and implementing them strategically, businesses can navigate the challenges of network disruptions and embark on a resilient path toward seamless operations.
Established in January 2013, UKConnect has become the UK's leading advanced wireless connectivity solutionsprovider, predominantly serving the construction industry. The company hasconnected over 5,500 sites globally with its advanced Wireless 5GFWA, PrivateCellular Networks and LeoSat Solutions. UK Connect's success is built on afoundation of a Connectivity guarantee, 10 years of dependability, proactive24/7 Support and the utilisation of Cutting-edge Technology. Discover how ourcomprehensive Connectivity solutions can elevate your business at www.ukconnect.com.
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