Introduction to IT Infrastructure and Its Importance
IT infrastructure refers to the combination of physical and virtual resources that enable an organization to operate and manage its information systems. This includes hardware, software, networks, and services necessary for data processing, storage, and transmission. Proper management of IT infrastructure is crucial for the efficiency and success of any company in the digital era.
Recent Technological Crises: The Spain Blackout Case
In recent times, we have witnessed technological crisis situations affecting both businesses and governments worldwide. The most recent and widely publicized event was the blackout in Spain, which caused a widespread disruption of electricity supply across the Iberian Peninsula, continental Portugal, and Andorra, as well as parts of southern France. This affected over 50 million people and caused significant issues in telecommunications and transportation systems. Although the event itself wasn’t catastrophic, related incidents resulted in 8 fatalities.
Expert Insights: Luciano Alves, CEO of Zabbix LATAM
To understand how to prepare for such events, El Economista spoke with Luciano Alves, CEO of Zabbix LATAM and an IT infrastructure expert. With the National Energy Control Center (CENACE) in Mexico as a client, his perspective offers valuable guidance for both large organizations and individuals.
What causes system failures like Microsoft outages or massive blackouts like in Spain and Portugal?
Technological failures leading to widespread system outages or massive blackouts typically result from a failure in one of the three fundamental pillars of technology: tools, processes, and people. In highly digitalized environments, having robust technology alone is insufficient. Clearly defined processes aligned with business objectives and well-trained personnel to operate tools and respond during crises are essential. When one of these pillars fails—whether due to outdated tools, inefficient processes, or human error—the system can collapse. The challenge lies in effectively orchestrating these three elements to ensure operational resilience.
Is it possible to safeguard IT infrastructure and prevent issues affecting millions?
Yes, it is entirely possible to protect IT infrastructure and prevent most operational issues if there’s a strong culture of real-time data monitoring and analysis. Every technological system generates constant signals—logs, performance metrics, failure alerts. The question is whether we’re prepared to interpret these signals and act proactively. With appropriate tools, such as observability platforms and intelligent monitoring, it’s possible not only to react swiftly to failures but also anticipate them. The key is building a solid database on normal infrastructure behavior and detecting deviations indicating potential anomalies. This distinguishes being reactive from being proactive.
Does the complexity of IT infrastructure contribute to vulnerabilities?
The growing complexity of IT infrastructure isn’t inherently a problem but a natural characteristic of the current digital environment. The rise in systems, integrations, and platforms responds to demands for greater agility, personalization, and innovation. The challenge arises when this complexity isn’t adequately managed. Without a clear strategy, it can translate into risks. However, with strategic planning and skilled teams, this complexity can become a competitive advantage. Practices like engaging specialized consultancies, using modular solutions, and continuous training are crucial for navigating this environment securely.
What’s the difference between open-source and licensed IT systems?
The primary difference between open-source and licensed software lies in the business model, not necessarily in technology quality or security. Open-source software developed and maintained by serious companies—like Zabbix—can be as secure or even more so than proprietary solutions. Its main advantage is transparency: the code is available for anyone to audit, multiplying the capacity to identify flaws or vulnerabilities. Additionally, open-source communities tend to be broader and more active, driving continuous improvements and rapid responses to incidents. Licensed software, on the other hand, relies solely on the internal team of the provider. In both cases, what truly determines security is the seriousness of the company developing, maintaining, and supporting the solution.
Is IT infrastructure monitoring widely adopted?
Real-time data monitoring is crucial in preventing technological crises. However, shallow implementations focusing only on basic indicators like network availability or server status are still common. The true value of monitoring lies in its ability to correlate data from multiple sources, generating insights into system behavior. Crossing infrastructure information with user experience indicators is essential to understand the real impact of a failure and act accurately. Although its importance is clear, advanced monitoring use remains insufficiently widespread, particularly in organizations without a consolidated IT culture. It’s common to see companies not maximizing their tools due to excessive platform use, misuse, lack of training, or hiring services from unaffiliated companies offering uncertified support, compromising operation guarantees and security.
Given CENACE in Mexico uses Zabbix for IT infrastructure monitoring, could a massive blackout like Spain’s occur in Mexico?
No single tool, regardless of its power, can prevent incidents alone. Zabbix’s use by CENACE exemplifies how monitoring can be integrated into critical processes. However, its effectiveness depends on configuration, supervision, and usage within the context of processes and by appropriate personnel. The key is addressing root causes rather than symptoms. If a critical event isn’t properly analyzed and corrected, it can repeat or combine with smaller events to escalate into a larger crisis. What should be done is work preventively, minimizing risks through robust IT governance.
With AI advancements, do IT infrastructures become more vulnerable or can AI help detect risks on time?
Artificial intelligence is a powerful ally in managing IT infrastructure. It enhances human capability by rapidly and accurately analyzing large volumes of data, identifying patterns and anomalies before they cause impact. Tasks that once required hours of manual analysis can now be accomplished in seconds with AI. However, it’s crucial that its use aligns with well-defined processes and has human oversight. AI provides probability-based recommendations, but the final decision should rest with the operator. When properly implemented, AI strengthens system resilience, improves decision-making, and accelerates crisis response.
