The network Crucial to the functioning of HCI is the computer network and its support staff. Individuals with the skills for expanding and maintaining such a network are few. Elimination of variation in personal computer and networking infrastructure ,- standardizing , is important for client server computing. This is reflected in the responsibilities of the network support staff. They aid in reducing network complexity, restrict the number of software programs in use, and customize the applications in use.
Complex networks cost time and staff, and are expensive and less predictable.
Network crashes, down time or malfunction can be due to amplification of minor changes. These can be in the hardware such as a different printer or personal computer type, or software as in the operating system, or applications. Personal computers are delivered to HCI with specified standards. Trouble shooting is catered for by a single contact person. Malfunctioning hardware is replaced with a spare machine of the same type, and the repairs are contracted out to an outside firm.