What is Configuration?

Multiple systems working together across different platforms in different centers and across a variety of networks can lead to crossed wires and more complex connections than you need. As complicated as technology can be, there are ways to make it simpler — in particular, configuration solutions. You may wonder, what is configuration going to do to improve the business infrastructure? The answer is, a lot!

Imagine if your entire suite of technology devices, servers — you name it — could arrive at your business office or even each business branch fully connected, configured and ready to go. It would be as simple as plug-and-play. That's the beauty of configuration services. Every single business operates differently and develops and nurtures a totally different technology landscape.  When you engage a third party as a configuration services provider, IT professionals can custom-build every aspect of your technology so that your configuration matches every detail of your business' tech needs. And the best part is that you can free up your internal resources to persue other projects.

In the simplest terms of computers and technology, the definition of configuration pertains to the arrangement of the hardware and software of IT system. Management of the components, settings and more ensures all IT systems can function smoothly and gives you greater control over the devices on your network.

Function and performance are two of the biggest concerns surrounding the demand for a properly configured technology infrastructure. Reliability also comes into play, along with the safety and security of your company's data. Devices that are properly configured initially can save you headaches in technology audits down the line.

You already know that most if not all of your company's electronics need to be able to talk to each other. This communications configuration is essential to proper functioning of your systems and processes. Improper connections can interrupt important business operations.

Some of the most common pieces of the systems configuration puzzle include:

• Hardware
• Software
• Firmware
• Documentation

Computers, printers and servers are just a few examples of devices that must be properly configured to ensure optimum performance in the office and beyond. With the ever-evolving world of technology constantly growing and changing directions, new devices will continue to fit into the bigger picture of configuration.

As stated, every company works differently and relies on a unique set of technology, especially in choice of hardware and software. Some companies may introduce the most up-to-date aspects of technology while others may rely on tried and true devices and systems without becoming too adventurous. Understanding how configuration relates to your company's own technical architecture may be easier when considering a few examples of different configurations in action.

Networking products can be one of the most important pieces of IT to manage. Your company's internet capabilities as well as the intranet of software and networking settings will need to be configured properly to ensure day-to-day business operations run smoothly.

Uniformity is key when configuring company-owned devices for use by employees to get their jobs done. Company-issued laptops, workstations, tablets and cell phones likely all fall into a similar protocol for operating systems, applications, permissions and other necessary settings.

When used for business purposes, personal devices may need special configurations in order to access company-wide systems, software or even a work email inbox. Most commonly, devices are granted the ability to dial in using a virtual private network (VPN), but along with that often comes a suite of mobile device security settings to prevent leaked corporate data, hacking and other security flaws.

Often bundled into one device that does it all, the company's network of printers must accommodate the departments as appropriate for the job requirements. Different permissions and settings can be pre-configured according to each staff level or personnel tier to limit unnecessary printing and resource usage.

Configuration services can also ensure that your company's data, files and resources are backed up, properly stored and available for recovery should you ever discover a problem that requires immediate action. IT professionals handling your configuration can set the backups to run in the background while leaving you and your team to manage other important parts of the job.

For highly specific industries, the list of configurable devices likely will grow to include other types of technology as roles and job requirements become even more involve. Custom configurations allow you to address every single moving part within your corporate network infrastructure, creating a living, breathing network of devices behind the scenes that is designed for optimal productivity.

These are just a few examples of how custom configuration services can help to provide a stable and functional working environment. Software configurations, hardware configurations, rack configuration, asset tracking and other services tie your technology together so you can increase productivity for your teams while keeping operating costs low. Discover just how much configuration services can impact your business' performance, cost-savings and goal-focused success.