Configuration Best Practices
Guidelines for secure and efficient network setup
Security Best Practices
Use strong passwords and enable password encryption
Implement access control lists (ACLs) to restrict traffic
Disable unused services and ports
Keep firmware and software updated
Use SSH instead of Telnet for remote access
Implement network segmentation with VLANs
Enable logging and monitoring
Use certificate-based authentication where possible
Implement intrusion detection systems
Regular security audits and penetration testing
Performance Optimization
Implement Quality of Service (QoS) policies
Use VLANs to segment network traffic
Configure spanning tree protocol properly
Monitor bandwidth utilization regularly
Optimize routing protocols and metrics
Use link aggregation for increased bandwidth
Implement traffic shaping and policing
Optimize switch and router buffer sizes
Use appropriate cable categories for speed requirements
Regular performance baseline measurements
Reliability & Redundancy
Implement redundant links and devices
Configure backup power systems
Create and test disaster recovery plans
Use link aggregation for increased bandwidth
Implement network monitoring and alerting
Regular backup of configurations
Document network topology and changes
Implement high availability protocols
Use environmental monitoring for equipment
Plan for capacity growth and scaling
Configuration Management
Use consistent naming conventions
Document all configuration changes
Implement configuration management tools
Use templates for standard configurations
Test configurations in lab environment first
Implement change control procedures
Use version control for configuration files
Regular configuration audits
Automate repetitive configuration tasks
Maintain configuration baselines
Quick Reference Card
S
Security
Protect & Monitor
P
Performance
Optimize & Scale
R
Reliability
Backup & Redundancy
C
Configuration
Document & Control