the ultimate guide - king of servers · ultimate guide to buying networking ... this buying guide,...

12
e ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking Equipment

Upload: vuongnguyet

Post on 18-Aug-2018

231 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

1

The

ULTIMATEGUIDE

to Buying Networking Equipment

Page 2: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

2

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

Page 3: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

3

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

Page 4: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

4

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.

Page 5: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

5

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

Page 6: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

6

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.

Page 7: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

7

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.

Page 8: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

8

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)

Page 9: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

9

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.

Page 10: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

10

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.

Page 11: The ULTIMATE GUIDE - King of Servers · ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying Networking ... this buying guide, ... Uplink Speed: Usually, choices for uplink speed are 10/100/1000

11

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