Contextualization

Alfa Laval is a multinational corporation with operations in Petrópolis, where I am employed at a facility focused on industrial boilers.

Within our site, we have implemented a range of locally developed applications, each tailored to specific operational requirements. In this article, will be explained our infrastructure architecture and provide insights into the development and maintenance processes of our software solutions, all of that need to be in compliance with the global IT politics.

Infrastructure

In the infrastructure, we have one database server, two production servers and one test server, all of that is connected in our intranet, that are maintained and monitored by an external team of the global IT.

Intranet

All of the servers are running windows server and all users use windows, that make easier to develop in some point, because every part is using the same system and no external device could access the intranet even smarthphone, that make some tools to be really impossible to be developed in this case.

Database Server

Our database server is running SQL Server, we have just one instance running and all the systems use this instance with different databases.

Production Servers

One of the servers is responsible for desktop application, the other one is responsible for web applications.

Desktop Applications Server
This server hosts locally running applications, primarily basic tools that operate independently without the need to access other servers.

Web Applications Server
This server is dedicated to hosting web applications, many of which are microservices. Detailed development insights into these microservices will be covered in a separate article.

• Technology Stack: The microservices are predominantly developed using .NET Core and Angular frameworks.

• Server Management: They are managed using Internet Information Services (IIS) for Windows Server, with each service allocated its own application pool for optimal performance and resource management.

• Deployment Process: New features that are approved by the users test are published and the old version is totally erased.

Test Server

Our test server serves as a versatile platform capable of running both desktop and web applications. It functions as the initial deployment environment for all new features before they are released.

• Application Deployment: This server hosts a variety of applications, encompassing both desktop and web-based solutions.

• Testing Environment: It connects to our primary database server for regular operations but typically utilizes a separate database instance for testing purposes.

• Deployment Process: New features undergo testing and validation of the users, on this server before being rolled out to production environments.

Users

Users form the cornerstone of our IT architecture, influencing hardware requirements and software interactions. Our user base can be categorized into two groups based on their computing needs:

Laptop Users

• Hardware Configuration: These users operate laptops equipped with either 13'' or 15'' screens.
• Additional Display: Each laptop setup includes a supplementary 24'' monitor, enhancing visual workspace and productivity.
• Usage Context: Laptop users typically benefit from mobility and flexibility, enabling them to work both in-office and remotely while maintaining a consistent computing experience.

Desktop Users

• Hardware Configuration: Users utilizing desktops are equipped with one or two 24'' monitors.
• Workstation Setup: The desktop environment provides a stable platform for tasks that benefit from larger displays and dedicated computing power.
• Specialized Needs: These users may require more robust hardware configurations for tasks such as graphic design, data analysis, or software development.

Integration with IT Infrastructure

• Network Connectivity: Both laptop and desktop users connect to our centralized IT infrastructure, ensuring seamless access to shared resources such as databases, applications, and network services.
• Security and Access Control: User authentication and access control mechanisms are implemented to safeguard data integrity and protect sensitive information.
• Support and Maintenance: IT support services are tailored to address the specific needs of each user group, ensuring smooth operation and timely resolution of technical issues.