ABSTRACT
IT infrastructure comprises all computer systems with their associated hardware, operating software (other than software applications), and networks used to run the business. Communication networks include servers used to transmit data between computers, as well as the computers used to manage the network. IT infrastructure therefore encompasses (see Figure 37.1):
• Mainframes, desktop, and laptop (mobile computing) environment • Data centers and service management • Storage devices • Operating systems, software tools • Network cabling, hardware, and communications software
IT infrastructure typically evolves over a period of time in response to demand for application support, services, and storage. As such, IT infrastructure development does
not follow a traditional life cycle development approach; rather, it is subject to management controls. Such management controls ensure that the introduction, modification, and disposal of software and hardware components is evaluated, managed, and verified in order to ensure that performance and the integrity of critical applications and data are maintained.
