There are various strategies to prevent IT outages and crises, both technological and procedural. The technical methods of evading the possible problems include incorporating component redundancy, alternative access methods, and extensive testing of old software to be able to support new demands. In case of a system overload, component redundancy can help to recalculate the routes of information exchange. Alternative access methods, such as low-tech dial-up connection, may help the system to function at a lower through bypassing the overloaded network. Finally, older software needs to be tested for operability under increased pressure if IT engineers expect growth of network inquiries. Even though the methods mentioned above are effective strategies to avert crises, they need to be accompanied by preventing procedures.
Among the most common procedures are keeping the knowledge about the system up-to-date, staying vigilant to dangerous users, have a rigorous network change control, replace old equipment, adapt to externalities, and limit customer-centric responsiveness. The growth of inquiries from the outside and the increased number of system mergers can destabilize the network system. Therefore, it is vital to keep track of all the changes and document them properly. In addition, the changes should be well-organized and tested before implementation in accordance with elaborated protocols. There should always be a team reviewing potentially dangerous activities and innovations to balance customer centricity with risks to the network. The methods mentioned above are to drive the possibility of IT outages to a minimum if implemented systematically.