Network topology, often known as network design, is the process of organizing and laying out an IT network’s infrastructure. It entails determining the different network design needs and coming up with a strategy that can be implemented successfully while also being in line with those standards. Because every firm will have different needs for their computer network, network architecture is essential.
Many computers can be connected to one another and share data at the same time thanks to a network. It enables employees to share information, finish activities more rapidly, and perform any computing duties that require a functional network. It is imperative for every firm to ascertain that the network architecture aligns with their requirements.
There are best practices for network design which are as below:-
- Straightforward & Simple:-
The best network designs have links that are clear and easy to understand, and each part of the design has a specific job to do. Keep your network simple by not adding extra parts or links that aren’t needed. This will make it easy to set up, use, and fix if necessary.
- Documentation:-
Make a note of your network architecture and save it under IT documentation. Documentation of company SOPs and other instructions pertaining to network configuration and operation is also necessary. You will have documentation to assist you in restoring and managing your network in the event that something needs to be changed or updated, something goes wrong with it, or your IT environment enters complete catastrophe recovery.
- Monitoring:-
Keep an eye on your network to make sure everything is functioning as it should. Because active monitoring provides clear visibility into what is working well and what may be lacking, it supports network uptime. Early detection of weak points in your network design will allow you to address the problems and update the documentation within your company.
- Scalability:-
You should expand your network in tandem with your firm to meet the expanding demands of the enterprise. Make sure your network is functionally designed now so it can function properly in the future and adapt to changes as they arise. [membership level=”1,2,3″ show_noaccess=”true”]
- Security:-
Set up firewalls to safeguard the network of your company. You can monitor and stop traffic on your different endpoints that is entering and leaving your network. Your organization’s size will determine whether you need many firewalls or just one.
- Redundancy:-
Network connectivity can be maintained even in the event of a system failure at one site by installing backup and mirrored systems in several geographic locations. An illustration of this would be a business that keeps data centers in several different places to guarantee constant service availability.
- Modularity:-
Creating the network from discrete modules can simplify it and facilitate the management of design modifications. Network improvements can be less disruptive and faults can be isolated by segmenting the network into core, distribution, and access layers.
- Enhancing Performance
Optimal performance should be ensured by the design by means of efficient configuration and the utilization of superior equipment. For instance, ensuring that routers and switches are configured correctly to maintain service levels can assist avoid network congestion and guarantee dependable, quick data transfer. [/membership]