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Network Infrastructure Magazine | Tuesday, June 06, 2023
Redundancy in internet infrastructure, achieved through multiple physical connections and diverse pathways, enhances resilience by minimising disruptions and enabling quick recovery, ensuring uninterrupted communication and business operations.
FREMONT, CA: Redundancy generates resilience by safeguarding against disruptions that immobilise segments of the internet infrastructure. One common approach to redundancy is the establishment of multiple physical connections or pathways between critical locations. This can involve redundant cables, network links, or even diverse service providers.
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By having multiple independent connections, the impact of a single failure is minimised as traffic can be rerouted through available alternate paths. By establishing redundant systems, incidents that may paralyse parts of the infrastructure can be mitigated. Redundancy as a concept refers to the fact that there are at least two pathways leading to the same destination. For the functioning of a communications network, two areas should be physically connected through numerous independent cables. This implies that in case of an occurrence, the traffic from the disrupted line is redirected through alternate transmission routes.
The system should be functional in an active/active mode by default. This indicates that all accessible lines are all always partially used and in case of an unforeseen situation, the traffic of the unworkable line is redirected through other transmission paths. This carries numerous benefits in comparison to an active/passive mode, where there is no instant reassurance that the alternative cable will function with utmost reliability when it is needed.
Beyond technical aspects, redundancy should be supported by comprehensive disaster recovery plans and business continuity strategies. These plans outline the steps to be taken in the event of an incident, ensuring quick recovery and minimal disruption to operations.
Being Aware of the Last Mile
Regardless, redundancy is not self-regulated. Although redundancy is commonly established through geographically diverse data pathways between data centres and internet exchanges, this principle does not extend to last-mile connections, such as DSL connections to end-users. In these cases, users and organisations must ensure that a second redundant line connects them to a higher-level network. This can be accomplished, for instance, by utilising 5G-capable routers in the private sector or small businesses.
Corporations must ascertain that they are connected to the internet through many, top-performing geo-diverse lines. A resilience infrastructure should be planned, built, and tested frequently in coordination with one, or more, providers. Organisations that are directly connected to an internet exchange (IX) should pay heed to redundant connectivity and set up numerous redundant, geo-diverse connections between the IX and themselves.
For numerous companies, the loss of an Internet connection can be similar to a power outage. To ensure uninterrupted business operations, organisations should prioritise the implementation of redundancy measures.
Embracing redundancy in connectivity is a proactive measure to safeguard against unforeseen disruptions. By investing in redundant systems, organisations can maintain a resilient infrastructure that enables seamless communication, enhances productivity, and protects against potential losses associated with downtime or network failures.
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