25 IT Infrastructure Manager Interview Questions and Answers

As an IT infrastructure manager, you’re responsible for the smooth operation of the technology systems that keep a business running. From computer networks and telecommunications to data storage and security, you’re in charge of making sure everything works together seamlessly. And in order to do that, you need to be prepared to answer a range of IT infrastructure manager interview questions.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of questions that you may be asked in an interview for an IT infrastructure manager position, as well as sample answers to help you prepare. We’ll also provide tips on how to showcase your skills and experience, as well as how to discuss your career goals.

1. Are you familiar with the different types of cloud computing services?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with cloud computing services. If you do, share your knowledge of the different types and how they work. If you don’t, explain that you’re willing to learn about them.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the different types of cloud computing services. In my current role as an IT Infrastructure Manager, I have worked extensively with cloud-based solutions such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. I understand the advantages and disadvantages of each platform and can help organizations make informed decisions about which solution is best for their needs.

I also have experience managing hybrid cloud environments that combine on-premise infrastructure with public cloud services. This allows organizations to take advantage of the scalability and cost savings of the cloud while still maintaining control over sensitive data and applications. My expertise in this area has enabled me to successfully implement complex cloud solutions for a variety of clients.”

2. What are the pros and cons of using the cloud for company data storage?

The interviewer may ask you this question to gauge your knowledge of cloud storage and how it can benefit or hinder a company. Use examples from your past experience to explain the benefits and drawbacks of using cloud storage for data backup, file sharing and other IT infrastructure needs.

Example: “The cloud is an increasingly popular way to store company data, and there are both pros and cons associated with it. The primary benefit of using the cloud for data storage is that it offers scalability and flexibility. Companies can easily increase or decrease their storage capacity as needed without having to purchase additional hardware. In addition, cloud-based solutions are typically more secure than on-premises solutions since they are hosted in a secure environment with regular updates and backups.

On the downside, cloud-based solutions may be more expensive than on-premises solutions due to the cost of hosting and maintenance fees. Furthermore, companies must also consider potential latency issues when accessing data stored in the cloud. Finally, some organizations may have concerns about data privacy and security when storing sensitive information in the cloud.

As an IT Infrastructure Manager, I understand the importance of making sure that any data storage solution chosen meets the needs of the organization while providing adequate security and reliability. I am confident that I can help your organization make the best decision regarding its data storage needs.”

3. How would you go about planning for a company merger or acquisition that involves IT systems?

This question can give the interviewer insight into how you plan for large projects and ensure they go smoothly. Use examples from your experience to highlight your organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.

Example: “When planning for a company merger or acquisition that involves IT systems, I believe the most important step is to understand the current environment of both companies. This includes understanding the existing hardware and software infrastructure, as well as any applications or services running on them. Once this information is gathered, it’s important to create an inventory list of all the assets involved in the merger or acquisition.

The next step would be to develop a plan for integrating the two infrastructures. This could involve consolidating servers, migrating data, and setting up new networks. It’s also important to consider how users will access their data and applications after the merger or acquisition. Finally, it’s essential to ensure that security measures are taken to protect sensitive data during the transition.”

4. What is your process for testing the functionality of new software or hardware before implementing it company-wide?

The interviewer may ask you this question to gauge your testing process and how it relates to the company’s overall goals. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for testing new software or hardware before implementing it across an entire organization.

Example: “My process for testing the functionality of new software or hardware before implementing it company-wide is comprehensive and thorough. First, I conduct a risk assessment to determine any potential issues that could arise from implementation. Then, I create a test plan with specific goals and objectives so that I can measure success and identify areas of improvement.

Next, I develop a timeline for completion of the tests, which includes milestones and deadlines. During this phase, I also assign tasks to team members and provide them with necessary training. Finally, I review all results and document my findings in order to make an informed decision about whether or not to implement the new technology.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to troubleshoot a system outage and what steps you took to resolve the issue.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you react in high-pressure situations. Use examples from previous jobs to describe the steps you took to resolve an outage, including what tools or resources you used to troubleshoot the issue.

Example: “I recently had to troubleshoot a system outage that was caused by an unexpected power surge. To resolve the issue, I first identified the root cause of the problem and then took steps to mitigate it.

The first step I took was to assess the damage and determine which systems were affected. After this initial assessment, I began to isolate the source of the outage and pinpointed the exact component that was causing the issue. Once the source was identified, I worked with my team to replace the faulty component and restore power to the impacted systems.

Once the hardware was replaced, I tested the system to ensure that all components were functioning properly. Finally, I implemented preventative measures to reduce the risk of future outages, such as installing surge protectors and monitoring the system for any potential issues.”

6. If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

This question helps the interviewer determine how you plan to get started in your new role. Prioritizing tasks is an important skill for any IT infrastructure manager, so give examples of what you would do during your first few weeks on the job and why these are important.

Example: “If hired, my first priority would be to get up to speed on the current IT infrastructure. I would review all existing systems and processes in order to understand how they are currently functioning and identify any areas for improvement. I would also take time to meet with key stakeholders and staff to gain an understanding of their needs and expectations from the IT Infrastructure Manager role.

My second priority would be to develop a comprehensive plan to ensure that the IT infrastructure is secure, reliable, and efficient. This would include assessing the current security measures and implementing additional safeguards where necessary. It would also involve evaluating the existing hardware and software solutions to determine if upgrades or replacements are needed. Finally, I would work to streamline processes and procedures to improve efficiency and reduce costs.”

7. What would you do if you noticed an employee was using an unsupported operating system that posed a security risk?

This question can help the interviewer assess your ability to manage employees and their responsibilities. Use examples from past experience where you helped an employee understand why they needed to use a supported operating system or how you helped them transition to one.

Example: “If I noticed an employee was using an unsupported operating system that posed a security risk, my first step would be to identify the scope of the issue. This includes determining which systems are affected and what data is at risk. Once this has been established, I would communicate with the employee in question to explain why their current setup poses a security risk and how it can be addressed.

I would then work with the employee to develop a plan for transitioning to a supported operating system. This could include providing training on the new system, helping to migrate data, or even purchasing additional hardware if necessary. Finally, I would ensure that any security vulnerabilities have been addressed by implementing appropriate measures such as patching, antivirus software, and other best practices.”

8. How well do you communicate with both technical and non-technical staff?

As an IT infrastructure manager, you will need to communicate with both technical and non-technical staff. Your answer should show the interviewer that you can effectively communicate with all types of people. You can use examples from your previous experience to highlight how you have communicated with different types of people in the past.

Example: “I have extensive experience communicating with both technical and non-technical staff. I understand the importance of being able to communicate effectively in order to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

When working with technical staff, I strive to be clear and concise when explaining tasks or concepts. I also make sure to ask questions if something is unclear so that there is no confusion. With non-technical staff, I take extra care to explain things in a way that they can easily understand. This includes using analogies and visual aids whenever possible.”

9. Do you have experience training IT support staff on best practices for system maintenance?

This question can help the interviewer determine your ability to train and develop staff members. Use examples from past experience where you’ve helped other IT professionals learn new skills or improve their existing ones.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience training IT support staff on best practices for system maintenance. During my previous role as an IT Infrastructure Manager, I developed and implemented a comprehensive training program for the IT support team. This included providing instruction on how to properly maintain systems, troubleshoot common issues, and ensure security protocols were followed. I also created a series of resources that could be used by the team when needed. My goal was to make sure they had the knowledge and skills necessary to provide excellent customer service while keeping the company’s systems running smoothly. As a result, our team was able to quickly respond to any technical issues that arose and resolve them in a timely manner.”

10. When is it appropriate to seek outside help for system issues?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of expertise and how you apply it to solve problems. Use examples from past experience where you were able to identify a problem, research possible solutions and implement them yourself or when you needed assistance from someone else.

Example: “When it comes to IT Infrastructure management, I believe that it is always important to assess the situation before taking any action. If an issue arises and I am not able to resolve it on my own, then I will seek outside help. This could include consulting with colleagues or other professionals in the field, researching online for solutions, or even bringing in a third-party vendor if needed. Ultimately, I strive to make sure that all system issues are resolved quickly and efficiently. My goal is to ensure that our systems are running smoothly so that our business can continue to operate without interruption.”

11. We want to improve our system security. What steps would you take to do so?

This question allows you to show your knowledge of IT security and how you would apply it in the workplace. When answering this question, consider what steps you would take to improve system security at your current job or a previous one.

Example: “I understand the importance of system security and would take a comprehensive approach to improving it. First, I would assess the current state of our system security by conducting an audit that identifies any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in our existing infrastructure. This would include reviewing user access rights, patching software, and evaluating network configurations.

Once I had identified any potential risks, I would develop a plan to address them. This could involve implementing additional authentication measures such as two-factor authentication, setting up firewalls, and encrypting data. I would also ensure that all users are aware of best practices for keeping their accounts secure, such as using strong passwords and avoiding suspicious links. Finally, I would regularly monitor the system to identify any new threats or changes in its security posture.”

12. Describe your experience with system monitoring tools.

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with a specific type of software. It can also show them how you use technology to solve problems and complete tasks. Use examples from your past experience to highlight your skills, knowledge and abilities.

Example: “I have extensive experience with system monitoring tools, having worked as an IT Infrastructure Manager for the past five years. During this time, I have implemented and managed a variety of different system monitoring solutions across multiple platforms.

My expertise includes setting up and configuring network-based monitoring systems such as SolarWinds, Nagios, and Zabbix. I am also familiar with server-level monitoring tools such as Splunk, Datadog, and New Relic. In addition to these, I have also used open source tools like Prometheus and Grafana for application performance monitoring.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and why you are the best person for the job. Before your interview, make a list of all your skills and experience that relate to the job description. Use these skills and experiences to answer this question by explaining how they make you an ideal candidate.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this job because of my extensive experience in IT infrastructure management. I have over 10 years of experience managing large-scale systems and networks, and I understand the complexities involved with keeping them running smoothly. My expertise includes designing, deploying, and maintaining complex network infrastructures, as well as developing strategies to ensure their optimal performance.

In addition to my technical knowledge, I also possess strong leadership skills that allow me to effectively manage a team of engineers and technicians. I am able to motivate and inspire my team to achieve our goals while ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget. I also have excellent communication and problem-solving skills which enable me to quickly identify and resolve any issues that arise.”

14. Which IT infrastructure management tools are you most proficient in using?

This question allows you to show the interviewer your technical skills and experience. You can list several tools that you are familiar with, but it is important to note which ones you have used most often in previous roles.

Example: “I am proficient in a variety of IT infrastructure management tools, including Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), and VMware vSphere. I have extensive experience with SCCM, having used it to deploy software updates, manage hardware inventory, and troubleshoot system issues. With WSUS, I have implemented patching strategies for both on-premises and cloud environments, ensuring that systems are kept up to date with the latest security patches. Finally, I have managed virtualized server deployments using VMware vSphere, taking advantage of its powerful features such as high availability and resource optimization.”

15. What do you think is the most challenging part of being an IT infrastructure manager?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and understand what your thoughts are on this role. It can also show them how you might handle challenges in the workplace. When answering, it can be helpful to think about what aspects of this job you enjoy most and which ones you find challenging.

Example: “The most challenging part of being an IT infrastructure manager is staying ahead of the ever-evolving technology landscape. As an IT Infrastructure Manager, it is my responsibility to ensure that our systems are up to date and secure while also keeping up with the latest trends in the industry. This requires me to stay abreast of new developments and be able to quickly adapt to changes in the field.

I have a proven track record of success in this area through my experience managing large scale projects for various organizations. I am confident in my ability to research and analyze emerging technologies, develop solutions that meet the needs of the organization, and implement them efficiently and cost effectively. My strong communication skills allow me to collaborate with stakeholders across all levels of the organization to ensure successful implementation of these solutions.”

16. How often do you make system backups and what is your backup strategy?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of IT infrastructure and how you apply it in the workplace. You can answer this question by describing a time when you made backups for a system, what you backed up and why you chose that strategy.

Example: “I have a comprehensive backup strategy that I use for all of my IT Infrastructure projects. My primary goal is to ensure that data is secure and recoverable in the event of an emergency or system failure. To achieve this, I make regular backups on a daily basis. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, I may also perform weekly or monthly backups as well.

My backup strategy includes both full and incremental backups. Full backups are used to capture the entire system state at a given point in time while incremental backups capture only changes since the last backup. This allows me to quickly restore systems with minimal effort and downtime. In addition, I always keep multiple copies of each backup stored in different locations to protect against any potential disasters. Finally, I regularly test my backups to ensure they are working properly.”

17. There is a discrepancy between the number of employees that say they have access to a system and the actual number of users. What is your process for investigating this issue?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to investigate discrepancies. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for investigating the issue, including how you would determine whether it’s a human error or a technical one.

Example: “When investigating a discrepancy between the number of employees that say they have access to a system and the actual number of users, my process would be to first identify the source of the discrepancy. I would then analyze the data from both sources to determine if there is an issue with the reporting or if it is something else.

Once the source of the discrepancy has been identified, I would work with stakeholders to develop a plan for resolving the issue. This could include updating user permissions, changing security settings, or other measures to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the system.

I would also review any existing policies and procedures related to user access and make sure they are up-to-date and properly enforced. Finally, I would document all changes made and create a timeline for monitoring the system going forward to ensure that any discrepancies do not occur again in the future.”

18. How do you ensure that our systems are up to date with the latest security patches?

IT infrastructure managers are responsible for keeping their company’s systems up to date with the latest security patches. This question allows you to show your interviewer that you understand how important it is to keep systems secure and safe from cyber attacks. In your answer, explain what steps you take to ensure that all of the IT systems in your department are secure.

Example: “I understand the importance of keeping systems up to date with the latest security patches. I have experience in developing and implementing strategies for patch management that ensure our systems are secure and compliant with industry standards.

My approach is to create a regular schedule for patching, which includes both automated processes and manual updates as needed. This helps to ensure that all systems are updated on time and any potential vulnerabilities are addressed quickly. I also keep an eye out for new patches and update them as soon as possible. Finally, I regularly review system logs to check for any suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts.”

19. We have a lot of legacy systems in place that need updating. What strategies would you use to update them without disrupting business operations?

Legacy systems are older computer programs that still function in a business. Updating them can be challenging, but an IT infrastructure manager needs to know how to do it without disrupting the company’s operations. Your answer should show your knowledge of legacy systems and how you would update them.

Example: “I understand the importance of keeping legacy systems up to date without disrupting business operations. My strategy for updating these systems would be to start with a thorough assessment of the current infrastructure and identify any potential risks associated with making changes. Once I have identified any potential risks, I will create an action plan that outlines how we can minimize those risks while still achieving our goal of upgrading the system.

Next, I would work closely with stakeholders to ensure they are aware of the proposed changes and their implications. This includes providing them with clear timelines and expectations so they know what to expect during the upgrade process. Finally, I would use automation tools to help streamline the process and reduce manual effort wherever possible. This will help us complete the upgrades quickly and efficiently while minimizing disruption to business operations.”

20. In your experience, what is the most effective way of ensuring system performance and availability?

This question can help the interviewer assess your experience with system performance and availability. It can also show how you prioritize these aspects of IT infrastructure management. In your answer, try to describe a specific strategy or process that you have used in the past to ensure optimal system performance and availability.

Example: “In my experience, the most effective way of ensuring system performance and availability is to have a comprehensive monitoring system in place. This should include both proactive and reactive measures that are tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization. Proactive measures such as regular patching, capacity planning, and preventive maintenance can help ensure systems remain up-to-date and running optimally. Reactive measures such as automated alerts and notifications can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. In addition, having an experienced IT team on hand to respond quickly to any issues or outages is essential for maintaining system performance and availability. Finally, it’s important to stay abreast of new technologies and trends in order to keep pace with changing requirements and industry best practices.”

21. Describe a time when you had to manage multiple competing priorities at once.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your work and manage competing deadlines. Use examples from previous roles to highlight your ability to multitask, organize projects and meet deadlines.

Example: “I recently had to manage multiple competing priorities at once while working as an IT Infrastructure Manager. I was responsible for the day-to-day operations of a large network, and there were many different tasks that needed to be completed in order to keep it running smoothly. One of my biggest challenges was managing all of these tasks while ensuring that each one was given the appropriate amount of attention.

To ensure that everything ran smoothly, I created a priority list of tasks and worked through them one by one. I also consulted with other team members to make sure that everyone was on the same page and that we could work together to get things done quickly and efficiently. This allowed us to stay organized and complete our tasks in a timely manner. Finally, I communicated regularly with upper management to ensure that they were aware of our progress and any potential issues that might arise.”

22. Do you have any experience developing disaster recovery plans for IT systems?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with developing plans for handling unexpected system failures. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your ability to plan ahead and develop strategies that ensure IT systems are prepared for potential disasters.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience developing disaster recovery plans for IT systems. In my current role as an IT Infrastructure Manager, I am responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive disaster recovery plans. My approach is to ensure that all critical systems are protected against any potential disasters. This includes identifying the risks associated with each system, assessing the impact of a potential disaster on those systems, and creating detailed plans to mitigate or eliminate the risk.

I also work closely with other departments in the organization to ensure that their data is properly backed up and stored offsite. This helps to minimize downtime and increase business continuity in the event of a disaster. Finally, I regularly review our existing disaster recovery plans to make sure they are up-to-date and effective.”

23. We want to move some of our infrastructure to the cloud. What considerations should be taken into account before making this transition?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your knowledge of cloud computing and how you would apply it in an IT infrastructure management role. Use examples from previous experience to highlight your ability to make smart decisions regarding technology implementation.

Example: “Before making the transition to cloud infrastructure, there are several considerations that should be taken into account. First and foremost is security. It’s important to ensure that all data stored in the cloud is secure and protected from unauthorized access or malicious attacks. This includes ensuring that proper authentication protocols are in place, as well as implementing encryption for any sensitive data.

Next, it’s important to consider scalability. When moving to the cloud, you want to make sure that your infrastructure can scale up and down quickly and easily depending on the needs of the business. Finally, cost-effectiveness should also be taken into consideration. You need to ensure that the costs associated with transitioning to the cloud will not outweigh the benefits of doing so.”

24. What processes do you have in place to manage changes to IT systems?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you manage projects and your team. Use examples from past experience to explain how you plan, organize and execute changes to IT systems.

Example: “I have a comprehensive process in place to manage changes to IT systems. First, I ensure that any proposed change is thoroughly evaluated and documented. This includes assessing the impact of the change on existing systems, as well as potential risks associated with it. Once this evaluation is complete, I will then work with stakeholders to develop an implementation plan. This plan outlines the steps necessary to implement the change, including testing and roll-out procedures. Finally, I monitor the progress of the change throughout its lifecycle, ensuring that all aspects are completed according to schedule and budget.”

25. Are there any areas of IT infrastructure management that you feel you can improve upon?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your self-improvement skills and how you view yourself as a professional. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention an area of improvement that you have already started working on or one that you plan to improve in the near future.

Example: “Absolutely. I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge in IT infrastructure management. One area that I have been focusing on lately is cloud computing. As the industry continues to move towards more cloud-based solutions, it is important for me to stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends. I have been taking courses online to learn about different cloud platforms and services such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. I also recently attended a conference focused on cloud security best practices. This has helped me gain a better understanding of how to secure cloud environments and ensure compliance. In addition, I have been exploring automation tools and techniques to help streamline processes and reduce manual labor. By leveraging these tools and technologies, I can increase efficiency and productivity while reducing costs.”