This Network Design Guide was created by the network architects at Macronet Services as a resource for IT professionals to consider each of the elements of network design in a logical format. This format may also serve as a guide when compiling network inventory, publishing network strategy docs, or even pursuing a RFP to source new network services.
In 2022 Macronet Services queried CIOs across the country about their key considerations for network design and the overwhelming answer was consideration of “the end-user experience”. This answer was quickly followed up by network security. These answers really do summarize the goal of thorough network design; culminating in a solution that optimizes the end-user experience in a manner that secures and defends the business assets.
Designing, sourcing and implementing a wide area network requires a wide range of experience and inputs to ensure an outcome that is ideal for your business. If you have a small team or lack depth, it’s strongly suggested that you invest in some level of consulting which can be as complete as a full outsourced consulting team, or, as simple as a third-party review. The team at Macronet Services can help.
The 10 elements of network design typically include the following:
- Network architecture: The overall structure of the network, including the physical and logical components and how they are connected.
- Topology: The arrangement of nodes and connections in the network, such as star, bus, ring, or mesh topology.
- Network devices: The hardware components that make up the network, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and access points.
- Media and cabling: The physical means by which data is transmitted within the network, such as twisted-pair cable, fiber optic cable, or wireless.
- Protocols: The set of rules that govern communication within the network, such as TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, and DNS.
- Addressing: The method of assigning unique addresses to nodes in the network, such as IP addresses, MAC addresses, and URL addresses.
- Security: The measures taken to protect the network from unauthorized access and data theft, such as firewalls, encryption, and authentication.
- Performance: The speed and efficiency of the network, including bandwidth, latency, and reliability.
- Scalability: The ability of the network to accommodate growth and change, such as adding new nodes or increasing capacity.
- Management: The processes and tools used to monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot the network, including network management software and system logs.
These elements are interrelated and must be considered and balanced in the design of an effective and efficient network.
Network architecture refers to the overall structure of a network, including its physical and logical components and how they are connected. It defines the layout, design, and organization of the network, and serves as the blueprint for the network infrastructure.
A well-designed network architecture should provide for the needs of the organization, be scalable and flexible, and allow for efficient and secure communication between devices and systems.
There are several common network architectures, including:
- Client-Server Architecture: A centralized structure where servers provide shared resources, such as files and applications, to clients on the network.
- Peer-to-Peer Architecture: A decentralized structure where nodes on the network can act as both clients and servers, sharing resources and communicating directly with each other.
- Hybrid Architecture: A combination of the client-server and peer-to-peer architectures, where some resources are centralized, and others are distributed among nodes on the network.
- Wireless Architecture: A network structure that uses wireless technology to connect devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, to each other and to the Internet.
- Cloud Architecture: A network structure where resources, such as storage and computing power, are provided over the Internet by third-party service providers.
The choice of network architecture depends on the specific needs and requirements of the organization, including its size, budget, and the types of applications and services it intends to use.
Topology
Network topology refers to the arrangement of nodes (devices) and connections in a computer network. It describes the layout of the network and how devices are connected to each other. The term “topology” comes from the Greek word “topos,” which means “place.”
There are several common network topologies, including:
- Bus Topology: A linear arrangement of devices connected by a single cable, with each device connected to the bus at a single point.
- Star Topology: A central hub connected to devices via individual point-to-point connections, creating a star-shaped network.
- Ring Topology: A circular arrangement of devices connected in a closed loop, with data flowing in one direction around the ring.
- Mesh Topology: A network in which each device has a direct connection to every other device, creating a mesh of connections.
- Tree Topology: A hierarchical arrangement of devices, with a central root node and multiple levels of branches, creating a tree-like structure.
The choice of network topology depends on various factors, including the size of the network, the type of devices being used, the requirements for data transmission and security, and the cost of implementation. Each topology has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the most appropriate topology for a particular network will depend on its specific requirements and constraints.
Network Devices
The selection of network devices, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and access points, is an important part of network design. The following factors should be considered when selecting network devices:
- Network requirements: The type of network and its specific requirements, such as size, traffic volume, and security needs, will determine the type of devices required.
- Scalability: The devices should be able to accommodate growth and change in the network, including the addition of new nodes and an increase in data traffic.
- Performance: The devices should be able to handle the required data transmission speeds, bandwidth, and latency requirements of the network.
- Interoperability: The devices should be compatible with the existing network infrastructure, as well as with other devices and systems that need to communicate with the network.
- Security: The devices should provide appropriate security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, and authentication, to protect the network from unauthorized access and data theft.
- Cost: The devices should be within the budget of the organization, and the total cost of ownership should be considered, including the cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining the devices.
- Support and maintenance: The devices should come from reputable manufacturers with good support and maintenance services, and should be easily maintainable by the organization’s IT staff.
When selecting network devices, it is important to consider both the short-term and long-term requirements of the network, and to balance the cost, performance, and security needs of the organization. It may also be useful to consult with a network design expert or vendor to determine the best options for a particular network.
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Media and Cabling
Media refers to the physical medium or transmission method used to transmit data in a network. There are several types of media used in computer networks, including:
- Copper Cabling: Copper cabling, such as twisted pair or coaxial cable, is one of the most common types of media used in networks. It provides high-speed data transmission and is relatively inexpensive.
- Fiber Optic Cable: Fiber optic cable is made of glass or plastic fibers and uses light to transmit data. It provides high-speed and secure data transmission over long distances and is used in high-performance networks.
- Wireless Media: Wireless media, such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks, uses radio waves to transmit data between devices. It provides mobility and flexibility but can be subject to interference and security risks.
Cabling refers to the physical cables and wiring used to connect devices in a network. The type of cabling used will depend on the type of media and the requirements of the network.
When choosing cabling and media for a network, it is important to consider factors such as cost, performance, scalability, and security. For example, fiber optic cable provides high-speed and secure data transmission, but it is more expensive than copper cabling. Wireless media provides mobility and flexibility, but it can be subject to interference and security risks.
In general, it is important to select cabling and media that are compatible with the devices and systems in the network, and that meet the performance, security, and cost requirements of the organization. It may be useful to consult with a network design expert or vendor to determine the best options for a particular network.
Network Addressing
Network addressing is the process of assigning unique addresses to devices in a computer network. This allows the devices to communicate with each other and enables the routing of data within the network.
There are several types of network addresses, including:
- IP Address: An IP address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each device connected to the internet or a local network. IP addresses are used to route data between devices in a network.
- MAC Address: A MAC address, or Media Access Control address, is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller (NIC) for use as a network address in communications within a network segment. This use is common in most IEEE 802 networking technologies, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
- Domain Name System (DNS) Address: A DNS address is a human-readable form of an IP address, such as “www.google.com”. DNS servers translate DNS addresses into IP addresses, making it easier for users to access websites and other network resources.
- Network Prefix: A network prefix is a set of bits in an IP address that identify the network portion of the address. The network prefix is used by routers to determine the subnet in which a device is located and to route data between subnets.
The process of assigning addresses to devices in a network is called address assignment or address allocation. It is an important part of network design and management and helps to ensure that data is transmitted reliably and efficiently within the network.
In general, network addressing is a complex topic that involves a range of technical considerations and trade-offs. It is important to choose an addressing scheme that meets the needs of the network, and to plan for the growth and evolution of the network over time.
Network Security
Network security refers to the set of technologies, processes, and practices designed to protect computer networks and the data transmitted over them from unauthorized access, misuse, theft, or damage.
The goal of network security is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network resources and data. To achieve this, network security employs a variety of mechanisms, including:
- Firewalls: Firewalls are network devices that control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They are often used to enforce security policies and prevent unauthorized access to the network.
- Encryption: Encryption is the process of converting plain text into a code to prevent unauthorized access to data. Encryption is used to protect data transmitted over the network, as well as data stored on network devices.
- Access control: Access control is the process of limiting access to network resources to authorized users. This can include mechanisms such as username and password authentication and role-based access control.
- Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS): IDPS are network security devices that monitor network traffic for signs of malicious activity. They can detect and prevent a range of security threats, including viruses, malware, and unauthorized access attempts.
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs are private networks that use public infrastructure, such as the internet, to provide remote access to network resources. They provide a secure, encrypted connection between remote devices and the network.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): SIEM is a security management system that aggregates and analyzes security-related data from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive view of the network security posture.
These are just a few examples of the many technologies and practices used in network security. The specific measures used will depend on the size, complexity, and security requirements of the network.
It is important to have a comprehensive and up-to-date network security strategy in place to protect against potential threats. This may involve regular security audits, updates to security software and hardware, and training for network users on security best practices.
Network Performance
Network performance refers to the efficiency and effectiveness with which a computer network operates. It is a measure of the network’s ability to deliver data and meet the needs of its users in a timely and reliable manner.
Key factors that can impact network performance include:
- Bandwidth: Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in each period. The more bandwidth available, the faster and more efficient data can be transmitted.
- Latency: Latency refers to the amount of time it takes for data to travel from one device to another on the network. High latency can result in slow or unresponsive network performance.
- Packet loss: Packet loss occurs when data packets are lost or corrupted in transit over the network. This can result in poor network performance, especially for real-time applications such as video conferencing or online gaming.
- Network congestion: Network congestion occurs when too much data is being transmitted over the network, resulting in slow or unreliable performance.
- Network design: The design of a network can have a significant impact on its performance. Factors such as the placement of network devices, the use of redundant links, and the allocation of network resources can all impact network performance.
To improve network performance, it is important to monitor the network for performance bottlenecks and to take steps to address them. This may involve upgrading network hardware, adjusting network configurations, or adding additional network resources.
In general, network performance is a critical aspect of network design and management and plays a crucial role in enabling organizations to achieve their business goals and objectives. A well-designed and well-maintained network will deliver high levels of performance and provide a seamless user experience for network users, which is a key measuring factor for CIOs.
Network Scalability
Network scalability refers to the ability of a computer network to grow and adapt to changing demands and usage patterns. A scalable network can accommodate an increasing number of users, devices, and applications, without experiencing a decrease in performance or reliability.
Scalability is an important consideration in network design and management, as it enables organizations to accommodate growth and change without having to completely overhaul their network infrastructure. This is especially critical in any potential area of bottleneck that might take time to solve for when scaling. For example, scalability of network access (the local loop) is a point that is often overlooked or not fully understood.
There are several factors that impact the scalability of a network, including:
- Network architecture: The design of the network, including the placement of network devices and the allocation of network resources, can impact the network’s ability to scale.
- Bandwidth: The amount of available bandwidth on the network is an important factor in network scalability. As the number of users and devices on the network increases, the demand for bandwidth will also increase, and the network must be able to accommodate this growth.
- Network security: Network security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, can impact network scalability if they are not designed to scale along with the network.
- Network management: The ability to effectively manage the network, including monitoring performance and configuring network resources, is an important factor in network scalability.
To ensure network scalability, it is important to adopt a network design that is flexible and can accommodate future growth and change. This may involve the use of scalable network technologies, such as cloud computing, and the adoption of best practices for network management and security.
In general, a scalable network is essential for organizations that want to stay competitive and meet the ever-changing demands of their users, customers, and partners. By ensuring that the network is scalable, organizations can ensure that they have the resources and capabilities they need to succeed in today’s rapidly changing technology landscape.
Network Management
Network management refers to the process of monitoring, controlling, and maintaining a computer network to ensure that it is operating optimally and effectively. Network management involves a range of tasks, including:
- Network performance monitoring: This involves monitoring the network to ensure that it is delivering data and meeting the needs of its users in a timely and reliable manner.
- Network configuration management: This involves managing the configuration of network devices, including switches, routers, and firewalls, to ensure that they are properly configured and functioning optimally.
- Network security management: This involves implementing and maintaining security measures to protect the network and its users from potential security threats and attacks.
- Network resource allocation: This involves managing the allocation of network resources, such as bandwidth, storage, and processing power, to ensure that they are used efficiently and effectively.
- Network troubleshooting: This involves identifying and resolving issues that may impact network performance and reliability.
Network management is an essential aspect of network design and operation, as it helps to ensure that the network is delivering the performance and reliability that its users require. Effective network management can also help organizations to reduce the cost and complexity of managing their network, and to respond more quickly to network-related issues and problems.
In general, network management is a complex and challenging task, and requires a deep understanding of network technologies, protocols, and best practices. Organizations that want to ensure effective network management may choose to use network management tools and software, or to hire network management professionals with the skills and expertise to manage their network effectively.
Summary
Any team engaged in the network design process should strongly consider each of the 10 elements of network design highlighted in this guide. Teams typically have areas of strength and weakness based on their cumulative experience with network engineering and need to be open to pulling in additional resources to ensure that all areas are explored in depth. Further, they need to align technologies with the short and long-term goals of the business and to ensure comprehensive operational supportability.
The team at Macronet Services has the skills and experience guide the process. Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime for a conversation about how we serve as an extension of your team.