Business network upgrade checklist: what to assess before buying equipment

Network upgrades fail when equipment is selected before the operating problem is understood. Begin with users, devices, applications, critical locations and expected growth. Map the current topology and cabling. Measure wireless coverage and interference instead of assuming more access points will solve the problem. Review internet redundancy, switching capacity, VLAN or segmentation needs, UPS coverage, rack space, environmental conditions and monitoring. Finally, document the configuration and support process so the new network can be maintained after installation.