Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) document how to perform routine tasks consistently. Unlike runbooks (which handle problems), SOPs handle normal operations.
Common network SOPs: Adding a VLAN, onboarding a switch, creating a firewall rule, setting up a VPN user, performing firmware upgrades.
Why SOPs matter:
- Consistency: Everyone does tasks the same way
- Training: New staff learn correct procedures
- Compliance: Auditors want documented processes
- Quality: Checklists prevent skipped steps
SOP vs Runbook: SOP is "How to add a VLAN" (planned). Runbook is "VLAN not working" (unplanned).