Managed services providers (MSPs) often prioritize properly configuring and implementing client network switches and firewalls. However, regularly reviewing and updating such components is an equally important responsibility.

It’s important to ensure clients understand the necessity of regularly auditing, updating, and creating new backups for network switches and routers, the need for scheduling the required service windows, and any corresponding expenses. MSPs should consider recurring maintenance tickets to ensure that the work is scheduled and completed.

Because network switches perform multiple complex functions, including performing layer three routing, in some cases, and firewalls fulfill critical security responsibilities, consider arming technicians with a checklist, like the one provided by TechRepublic Premium, for performing regular maintenance on these devices. In addition, creating corresponding service tickets, including tickets that incorporate the checklists as templates or attaching completed checklists to those tickets, helps ensure that the critical infrastructure is regularly reviewed, audited, and backed up.