4.3.7 Redundancy and high availability
With so many connections to the network, it is important to ensure that the network is available and reliable.
Redundancy requires installing additional network infrastructure components, telecommunication links, and power components to back up primary resources in case they fail. Redundancy also enables load sharing of resources, providing a high-availability system design that ensures that a prearranged level of operational performance will be met during a contractual measurement period.
In addition to having redundant equipment and connections, data must also be backed up. Secure backups archive the data in an encrypted format, preventing unauthorised access to the stored archive.
Examples of network redundancy include:
- redundant servers
- redundant fibre connections
- redundant power supplies.