7 - Operations and maintenance

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of operations and maintenance. In many ways, the use of a local area network is like the use of another shared resource—the electric system. Users gain the benefits of economy of scale, and they gain the benefit of not having to run their own generators, use candles, or otherwise try to heat and light their homes independently. Like the electric system, however, users of local area networks require that the economy, availability, and reliability of the shared system meet certain standards, or else they are better off being independent. Topology, access methods, media, installation factors, and interface design all influence economy. These items also influence availability and reliability concepts that are an important ingredient in the operation and maintenance of local area networks. Preventive maintenance generally includes such tasks as cleaning air filters, lubricating hearings, and checking adjustments on mechanical devices. In a local area network, performing these tasks at user stations should not interrupt network operations. Performing preventive maintenance at a server may require network down time or at least lack of that service. Scheduling such maintenance for off-peak hours is one possible way of making the lack of availability acceptable to the users.