Networking

allow connectivity between different end hosts on the network

Characteristics

Topology

  • how are the devices connected to each other?

Example

Office 1

  • Local Area Network
    • [PC], [Server], [Printer], [Laptop -> wireless access point] -> switch
  • Router
  • Firewall
  • Internet

Office 2

  • Local Area Network
    • [PC], [Server], [Laptop] -> switch
  • Router
  • Firewall
  • Internet

Communication between Office 1 and Office 2:

  1. over the internet
  2. wide area connection: dedicated connection between both routers

Speed

  • usually the faster the more costly

Cost

  • obviously, the cheaper the better (if not causing other conflicts)

Security

  • Firewall
  • security features on routers, and switches
  • intrusion intervention systems
  • etc

Availability

  • make sure the network always stays up
  • strategy of doubling up on components such that if one fails another can take over

Scalability

  • design network such that it can grow with the company without requiring redesign

Reliability

  • make sure the network continues to work