IT Infrastructure

Lecture 2
Information Technology (IT)
infrastructure
• IT infrastructure refers to the foundational components
and resources required to deliver IT services and
solutions.
• It includes hardware, software, networks, data
storage, and associated services that support
business operations.

Role in Systems Administration

System administrators manage IT infrastructure to ensure

its reliability, security, and scalability, enabling
Components of IT Infrastructure
Hardware
• Physical devices and components that make up IT
systems:
• Servers: Centralized systems that host applications,
databases, and services.
• Storage Devices: Hard drives, SSDs, SAN (Storage
Area Network), NAS (Network Attached Storage).
• Networking Equipment: Routers, switches, firewalls,
and access points.
• End-User Devices: Workstations, laptops, mobile
devices, and printers.
Software
• Applications and operating systems that enable
functionality:
• Operating Systems (OS): Windows, Linux, macOS.
• Middleware: Software that bridges communication
between different applications.
• Applications: Productivity tools, enterprise software
(e.g., ERP, CRM).
• Virtualization Software: VMware, Hyper-V, or KVM
for running virtual machines.
Networking
• Connecting systems to enable communication and
resource sharing:
• LAN/WAN: Local Area Network and Wide Area
Network configurations.
• Protocols: TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP.
• Internet Connectivity: ISPs, VPNs, and leased lines.
Data Storage and Management
• Handling organizational data effectively:
• Data Centers: Centralized facilities for hosting
infrastructure.
• Cloud Storage: Public, private, and hybrid cloud
solutions.
• Databases: Relational (SQL) and non-relational
(NoSQL) databases.
Security
• Ensuring the safety of systems and data:
• Firewalls: Hardware or software to block
unauthorized access.
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems
(IDPS): Monitoring and responding to threats.
• Encryption: Protecting data in transit and at rest.
• Access Control: Authentication, authorization, and
user privileges.
Types of IT Infrastructure
1. Traditional Infrastructure
• Relies on physical hardware for servers, storage, and
networking.
• Requires significant investment in hardware and maintenance.
2. Cloud Infrastructure
• Delivers infrastructure resources over the
internet.
• Models include:
• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): AWS, Azure,
Google Cloud.
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Development
platforms.
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Applications
delivered via the cloud.
3. Virtualized Infrastructure
• Abstracts hardware resources using virtualization
software.
• Enables multiple virtual machines (VMs) on a single
physical server.
4. Hybrid Infrastructure
• Combines on-premises systems with cloud-based
solutions.
• Provides flexibility and scalability.
Key Functions of IT Infrastructure in
Systems Administration
• Resource Management
• Allocation of computing, storage, and networking
resources based on organizational needs.
• Performance Monitoring
• Tools like Nagios, Zabbix, and SolarWinds are used to
monitor system performance.
• Maintenance and Upgrades
• Regular updates to hardware and software to ensure
compatibility and security.
Key Functions of IT Infrastructure in
Systems Administration..
• Disaster Recovery and Backup
• Strategies to restore operations after data loss or
system failure.
• Implementation of backup systems and redundant
configurations.
• Automation and Orchestration
• Automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef) reduce
manual tasks.
• Orchestration ensures seamless integration of IT
resources
IT Infrastructure Planning
• a. Assessment of Current Infrastructure
• Analyze existing systems to identify strengths, weaknesses,
and areas for improvement.
• Evaluate current and future business needs.
• b. Requirements Gathering
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define infrastructure
requirements, including performance, capacity, and security
needs.
• c. Budgeting and Cost Analysis
• Develop a cost-effective plan that balances investment in new
technologies with existing resource utilization.
IT Infrastructure Planning..
• d. Risk Assessment and Management
• Identify potential risks such as system failures, security
breaches, and downtime.
• Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
• e. Capacity Planning
• Ensure infrastructure can handle current workloads and scale to
accommodate growth.
• Use tools to predict future resource needs.
• f. Vendor Selection
• Evaluate and select reliable vendors for hardware, software, and
cloud services based on organizational requirements.
IT Infrastructure Management
a. Resource Allocation
• Optimize the allocation of computing, storage, and networking
resources to improve efficiency and minimize waste.
b. Maintenance and Updates
• Perform regular updates to hardware and software to ensure
optimal performance and security.
• Schedule maintenance windows to minimize disruptions.
c. Monitoring and Troubleshooting
• Implement monitoring tools like Nagios, Zabbix, or SolarWinds
to track system health and performance.
• Develop protocols for quick issue resolution.
IT Infrastructure Management
d. Backup and Disaster Recovery
• Establish robust backup procedures to protect critical data.
• Test disaster recovery plans regularly to ensure effectiveness.
e. Policy Enforcement
• Implement and enforce IT policies regarding data access, usage,
and security.
• Conduct regular compliance checks.
f. Performance Optimization
• Continuously analyze and fine-tune systems for peak
performance.
• Use analytics to identify bottlenecks and address them promptly.
Challenges in Managing IT
Infrastructure
• Complexity of Modern Systems
• Integrating diverse technologies (e.g., cloud, IoT, AI).
• Security Threats
• Cyberattacks, ransomware, and data breaches.
• Scalability
• Expanding resources without disrupting services.
• Cost Management
• Balancing budgets while investing in modern technology.
• Skill Requirements
• Keeping up with the rapid evolution of IT systems and tools.
Best Practices in IT Infrastructure
Management
1.Adopt Standardized Frameworks:
• Use ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and COBIT for structured
processes.
2.Implement Proactive Monitoring:
• Use tools like Splunk, Dynatrace, and Prometheus to anticipate and resolve issues.
3.Ensure Regular Backups:
• Perform daily backups and verify their integrity.
4.Embrace Automation:
• Automate repetitive tasks to improve efficiency and reduce errors.
5.Plan for Scalability:
• Design systems to accommodate growth seamlessly.
6.Prioritize Security:
• Implement multi-layered security measures and conduct regular audits.
7.Invest in Training:
• Keep system administrators updated on the latest technologies and certifications.
Conclusion
• IT infrastructure is the backbone of any organization's
operations.
• Effective management of infrastructure through systems
administration ensures reliability, security, and scalability.
• As technology continues to evolve, system administrators
play a crucial role in adapting IT environments to meet
dynamic business needs while overcoming challenges and
implementing best practices.
OS Installation and
Configurations