Importance of Redundancy In a Network

If your network currently lacks critical redundant devices or links, take a look at this guide on the importance of redundancy in a network.

Network redundancy refers to the implementation of a communication pathway with additional instances of critical network devices and the presence of superfluous links to connect all nodes in the case that one fails. Depending on the structure of the network and the preferences of the personnel in charge of it, there are several different types of ways to increase redundancy in a network—from ring networks to multi-protocol label switching (MPLS). Despite this array of options, some networks still don’t have redundancy measures in place. If your network currently lacks redundancy, explore this guide to learn the importance of redundancy in a network.

Eliminates Single Points of Failure

One of the main benefits of network redundancy is the elimination of single points of failure. Single points of failure refer to critical parts of a network that can prevent the entire system from working if they fail. Naturally, such vulnerable points are highly undesirable in networks that strive for high degrees of reliability and availability. By having backup devices and links present in areas of a network that would cause significant outages, single points of failure and the threat that they pose is greatly reduced.

Prevent Significant Direct and Indirect Financial Loss

Another example of the importance of redundancy in a network is its ability to prevent significant financial loss. Unplanned network outages can cost businesses thousands of dollars each minute that the network is down. Direct costs of a network outage include the price of identifying the issue and repairing or replacing any damaged devices.

In addition to such direct costs, network outages also have numerous indirect costs such as recovering any lost data and the cost of halted productivity for which businesses will still have to pay their employees for. Due to the significant potential for substantial financial loss, businesses should greatly consider implementing redundancy into their network.

Preserve Customer and Business Relationships

Unexpected downtime can also hurt business and customer relationships. When your network goes down without warning, you may not be able to provide customers or other businesses with the goods or services you promised them. The inability to follow through on your promises in a timely manner will likely harm your company’s reputation and reduce future revenue opportunities. To preserve the important relationships that you have formed with both customers and other businesses, it’s wise to invest in network redundancy measures.