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The
ULTIMATEGUIDE
to Buying Networking Equipment
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Networks allow people to share information, resources and
devices. Built with a combination of computer hardware and
software,networks vary in their size, scope and sophistication.
A network can be as simple as two computers connected via a cable,
while at the other end of the scale, they can comprise a complex set
up, including a multitude of computers and devices spanning multiple
geographic locations.
Knowing when your business needs to establish, upgrade or expand
its networking capabilities - and indeed, how to do it - can be tricky,
particularly for those enterprises whose expertise lie elsewhere. In
this buying guide, you can expect to learn more about the features
and benefits of a network, while we will also explain the building
blocks needed to set one up.
Part 1:
Introduction
Image: 8 Port SwitchCisco Catalyst 2960CX-8TC-L
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THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF NETWORKSLet’s take a closer look at the different types of networks available for
businesses, and the situations in which they could be used.
LANs & WANs
One of the common ways to categorise a network is by its
geographical coverage. A local area network (LAN) tends to be
based in a single location - for example, in one building - where
network devices are connected over a relatively short distance.
Wireless local area networks (WLAN) are the Wi-Fi equivalent, and
provide cable-free connectivity.
Other types include wide area networks (WANs) - similar to a set
of LANs, but not limited by geography. The most obvious example
of this type is the internet. Overall, WANs and LANs are the most
popular network types, but there are others, including:
Metropolitan area networks (MAN)
Personal area networks (PAN)
Storage area networks (SAN)
Network topology
An alternative method of categorising networks is by their virtual
structure or layout in terms of data flow - also known as network
topology. This may or may not correspond to the actual physical
layout of the network devices, and there are a number of basic
topologies described - such as bus, ring, star, tree and mesh. More
complex networks can utilise hybrid topologies.
How do topologies differ?
Topologies differ in several important
ways, including:
Routing capabilities
Points of failure
The amount of cabling they require
When planning a network, it is important
to choose a topology appropriate for both
the number of terminals and the devices
involved.
Part 2:
Types of Networks
Image: Networks (L-R)A: Peer-2-Peer Network B: Client/Server Network
A B
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Network models
There are two key models for computer networks - peer to peer and
client/server. We have explained these in more detail below.
Peer to peer (aka a peer network)
Here, all computers are equally responsible for processing data,
with some workstations tasked with serving the data and others
with consuming it.
This model is highly flexible, as each computer on the network
functions as both a server and a workstation.
Computers in this type of network can be configured in
workgroups to allow file, printer and resource sharing between
all devices.
This type of network is more resilient to failures and traffic
bottlenecks, as there is no dependence on central servers.
Client/server networks
These are more sophisticated than other network types, with a
distinction between devices and applications.
Here, there are one or more dedicated servers that form
the core of a client/server network dishing out applications,
services and resources to individual workstations (or clients).
The centralisation of assets involved with this network model
removes the storage and processing burden from each
individual computer.
Resources and security can be controlled and managed from a
single central location.
Advantages include interoperability and scalability - different
hardware and software can be brought together or added as
the network expands.
One disadvantage is that the equipment is more expensive,
normally requiring trained administrators to manage network
operations.
If the server fails, the entire network will be affected.
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NETWORK PROTOCOLS A network protocol can be defined as the language used by devices to
communicate across a network. The protocol is used to package the
information from what is described as the “sending computer”, and
delivers it to the designated recipients.
Protocols provide an alternative method of categorising networks,
with both standard and proprietary protocols available. In the
digital era, the most important set of protocols are TCP/IP, which are
broadly used for the internet. Virtually all networks rely on this type
for communications, which is why TCP/IP is supported by every major
operating system.
Other web and email protocols that you are likely to be familiar
with include:
HTTP and FTP for web file transfer
SMTP, POP and IMAP for email messaging
NETWORKING HARDWARE
Network adapters
Computers form the backbone of a network. A computer connects
to a network via a network adapter. This essential component, also
known as a NIC or LAN card, provides an interface between the
computer and the network.
While there are various types of adapter available, most servers from
manufacturers such as HP, Dell and Fujitsu have available expansion
slots, which allow additional network interface cards to be installed
for redundancy.
Part 3:
Protocols& Hardware
Image: Expansion moduleHP 10/100 Ethernet x 24
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In the case of a wired network, there will need to be at least one
cable per computer to connect it to the router, switch or other
network device in use. For wireless networks, the network adapter
uses an antenna to link via radio waves with a wireless access point
or other wireless devices on the network.
Routers
Routers are devices that specialise in directing (or routing) data traffic
between or among networks. Routers work by storing configuration
information in a routing table, which allows them to filter incoming
or outgoing traffic based on the IP addresses of the sender or
receiver. As well as routing traffic and managing network bandwidth,
routers also determine the best path and format for delivery of
data within the network. Routers can be wired or wireless and are
commonly used in homes and small offices to pass data, such as web
pages and email, between a computer and a web connected cable or
broadband modem. More sophisticated enterprise routers connect
large business or ISP networks to the internet backbone.
Hubs & Switches
Hubs and switches interconnect the various parts of a network. Both
device types perform similar roles in transporting traffic, but switches
do it more efficiently, especially in larger or high traffic networks. A
hub is a very basic device with no traffic management capabilities
and is nowadays virtually obsolete. In contrast, a switch is capable
of transmitting data faster and more efficiently. Switches connect
different parts of a local area network (LAN) together with each
network device connecting to the switch via a dedicated port. Once
connected, a device can transmit data to and receive data from other
connected devices. The number of ports a switch has varies from
four ports for small, entry level switches through to 52 ports or more.
Switches can also be interconnected (or stacked) for increased port
capacities.
For small networks, an unmanaged switch is a cost-effective, plug
and play solution that has no configuration interface or management
options. Smart switches offer a small number of management
capabilities, allowing basic settings to be managed via a web
interface. Fully managed or enterprise switches provide sophisticated
traffic management and monitoring features and are geared to large
or complex networks.
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A closer look at network switches In short, a network switch is a wired device that joins computers - or
other devices - as part of a network. The device transfers data with
each device in the rest of the network at full transmission speeds.
These handy components are different from other switches due to
their additional features, and functions for enhanced manageability.
Cisco and HP are two key brands when it comes to network switches.
Picking the right switch
The best switches on the market are the 10 GbE models. Most of
these are fully managed, which means they have a type of interface
that allows users to view the entire network.
Other common features that businesses should consider before
purchasing an enterprise switch include:
Port count: We would recommend having an idea of how many
ports you may require. Some switches can be purchased with as
many as 50 ports. However, as cost increases with port count,
be realistic about how many you require.
Port speed & type: Primary port speeds are usually 10/100
(1Gbps) or 10GbE with either copper or fibre connections.
Capabilities: Switches have different performance capabilities,
depending on your business needs. Some operate at layer 2
- the data link layer - meaning they work with MAC addresses
associated with network interface cards. Others are layer 3,
also the network layer, which provides high performance for
network routing.
Management: Most switches are managed, but some are not.
Stackability: Many switches can be stacked using a special cable
which allows them to be managed as a single unit.
Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000
copper, 100 Mb fibre, 10/100/1000 fibre, 10 Gbe copper or a mix
of these speeds.
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Additional features
On top of the features outlined above, some businesses need to
consider additional specifications that are suited to their needs.
Power over the Ethernet - referred to as PoE - is just one example.
This term refers to a switch that can provide connectivity and power
to certain devices such as IP phones and desktop equipment via a
single cable.
PoE is usually a good idea for businesses that are rebuilding an
existing network, or creating an entirely new network. In larger
organisations, PoE eliminates the heavy costs and sprawl associated
with having to lay a lot of cables. When considering PoE be sure to
refer to the manufacturer’s specs as many switches won’t support full
PoE on all ports. You need to evaluate the maximum power draw for
each device and the estimated total number of devices.
Further additionals features include:
PoE+ (if 15W plus power is required)
Fanless systems (for silent operation)
IPv6 host/management
Redundancy features (e.g. PSU for high availability)
Cooling/power costs
Quality of Service (QoS - important if you’re using VoIP)
Warranty (HP switches come with a lifetime warranty)
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WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS Wireless access points (WAPs) are an essential hardware
component in wireless networks. They feature a network adapter,
antenna and radio transmitter and generally have a short
transmission range of up to 150 feet. WAPs transmit and receive
radio signals to and from networked wireless devices and are
usually used in home or small business networks. Access points
vary with regard the number of supported clients, but they can be
interconnected to allow client computers to roam additional access
points if need be. Like wireless routers, wireless access points
support the Wi-Fi wireless communication protocol.
FIREWALLS A firewall is a security device that protects a network from intruders
and malicious attacks. It usually comes in the form of a physical
hardware device that plugs into the network, or a software
application within a router or server. Some products combine both
hardware and software options to add extra protection against
spam and viruses.
These essential devices work by monitoring network traffic to
seek out and block unwanted traffic. In many cases, they are used
to stop unauthorised internet users accessing private networks
connected to the internet.
There are also a number of different firewall techniques used,
such as:
Packet filtering
Proxy server
Application getaways
Part 4:
WAP’s / FirewallsCables & Software
Image: RS-232 cableCisco serial - 3 m
One thing to consider
Many firewalls use a combination of
these to place extra emphasis on their
security efforts.
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NETWORKING CABLESNetwork cables connect one network device to another. Despite the
emergence of WiFi, most networks still depend on cables for connectivity
and data transfer. There are a number of different types of cable,
including:
Twisted pair cables are composed from a pair of insulated copper
wires that are twisted together to eliminate electromagnetic
interfaces from outside sources. Frequently used for Ethernet
networks, there are shielded and unshielded twisted pair cable
products. Crossover cables are a specific type of Ethernet cable
used to directly connect devices of the same type and are very rare
nowadays.
Patch cables route signals between electronic or optical devices.
They’re often quite short and are available in a wide range of colours.
Optical fibre cables transmit data via beams of light. They are
more expensive than other cable types but have higher bandwidth
capacities and can transmit data over longer distances.
NETWORKING SOFTWARE No network can operate without software. Each computer within
any network must have an operating system installed that facilitates
communication across the network while dictating how computers and
other network devices communicate with each other. The operating
system can be thought of as a director and controller of the network,
managing and coordinating resources and services from a central
location, while also assisting with security and privacy by controlling
access to network resources.
Microsoft Windows Server is perhaps the most prevalent operating
system with network capabilities, but there are a number of alternatives,
including Linux, Novell, Sun/Solaris and Unix. As well as providing
mechanisms that enable processes to exchange information, network
operating systems also enable multitasking by scheduling processor time
for each networking process. This helps to ensure the network’s hardware
features and capacities are maximised.
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A KEY TAKEAWAY Choosing a network device can be difficult, as it involves weighing
up a number of factors such as budget, the management capabilities
required, the device’s feature set and your network’s overall structure and
performance.
If you are still in doubt about the next steps of your purchase, speak to an
expert for advice.
SPEAK TO US We hope this network equiptment buying guide has given you an idea
of what you need to look for in a network solution.
If you need any further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the
King of Servers team, who are on hand to help you every step of the way.
Call us on
0845 611 8696
Fill out our online enquiry form, or use the Live Chat function on our
website:
www.kingofservers.com
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Contact Details:
www.kingofservers.com
0845 611 8696
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