Network design ranges from small local area networks to complex corporate systems. Thoughtful design and informed decisions are crucial for functionality, including components that work together, computer security, and connection types. Reliability and redundancy are important, including power and web host uptime. Network traffic and required bandwidth and speed should also be considered.
Network design, the design of a computer system with all its connections, can range from the small local area network (LAN) of a home to the complex and layered operation in a corporate environment. Sometimes networks are created out of necessity with very little thought. This could be the case, for example, when connecting a computer and a printer. For the best functionality, however, thoughtful network design and informed decisions in certain areas are required.
A crucial underpinning of network design is the components that work together. This means having an operating system that will run the software that needs to be deployed, and peripherals, such as a scanner, router, and printer, that also work with your chosen operating system. Also important is a web host or server that fits the operating system and supports any website with the appropriate version of MySQL, PHP and other requirements.
Computer security exists in many different network design choices, settings, and components. From preference settings in your Internet browser to antivirus software and firewall software on your router or computer, to choosing passwords and taking steps to protect them, security pervades many layers of network design.
The components of a network can be connected in various ways. There are networks that are totally connected via USB cables, from keyboard to printer to scanner to monitor. Other choices include wireless connections, Bluetooth®, or a combination of connection types. These decisions are related to where the equipment will be used, how close or far apart the various components will be, and whether any equipment, such as laptops, can be used in multiple locations.
Reliability in network design is not limited to the quality of the main components. Power strips and building wiring must also be reliable. The same goes for the web host, with a guaranteed 99-100% uptime and 24/7 phone support as the best options.
Redundancy is important on many levels. Optimally, you want redundancy of every important element of your system, from power up. Backing up individual files and printing hard copies is the start. Making frequent in-place data backups is a common practice. Beyond that, cloud backup solutions are worth investigating. You can also choose to have redundant networks. Server backup is also important whether you have onsite or offsite hosting.
Component and connection choices must also take into account network traffic and required bandwidth and speed. Networks should be designed with traffic peaks in mind.
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