Networks
We are living in an era where our lives and businesses are completely dependant on computer networks. Regulatory agencies are becoming more and more focused on the platforms that host our critical validated GMP and business systems. But how are these cables and devices actually documented?
Robust Network
Having a robust network infrastructure simply does not mean getting a whole load of good quality (e.g Cisco) switches, routers, firewalls and wireless access points, plugging in the fibres, patching the workstations and servers then bingo!! This is only the beginning.
A robust network is also a well designed network, an infrastructure that is reliable – by design. A well designed network is planned, this is documented comprehensively utilising up-to-date drawings to show both the physical and logical characteristics of the network.
Fit for Purpose
In addition, the fully documented network should be suitably qualified in order to satisfy the regulators of the networks host industry that this infrastructure is indeed fit for purpose and this is achieved through design then by testing the design – qualifying that the network is as it says on the tin, thus allowing the owners of the hosted validated systems to actually sleep at night.
Configurations are Critical
Networks consist of a hell of a lot of configurations from the Intelligent Devices to the Patch Panels, these configurations are critical – server connections, critical network interconnections and connections to remote devices critical to operations therefore Premier Infrastructure always develop and deploy configuration management strategies on commencement of any project.
A qualified network includes (at a minimum) the following documentation:
- Physical and Logical Layout Drawings
- System Boundary Document (including diagrams)
- Network Document Index
- Location of wall outlets
- Description of components used (e.g. patch panels)
- Copper and Fibre Cable Test Results (to prove that all installations are in accordance with industrial standards).
- Documented Device Installations and Configurations for all Intelligent Devices (e.g. Switches, Routers, Firewalls, Wireless Access Points).
- Associated System Lifecycle Documents (depending on Industry)