If data is the lifeblood of the enterprise, the network is the nervous system. The enterprise network connects users and devices so that information can flow freely. It allows IT teams to deliver services and monitor, and manage systems. Thanks to the network, users can access systems and applications, share files, and communicate efficiently.
The enterprise network encompasses several types of networks, including local-area networks (LANs), campus networks, and wide-area networks (WANs). More recently, it has come to include cloud and edge networks. Each of these network types has unique characteristics, but also many common components.
Like the different types of data centers, there are various types of networks designed to perform specific functions. They work together to meet the organization’s business and technical objectives.
The LAN is designed to interconnect systems and devices within a building, the floor of a building, or even a single room. It may interconnect the entire organization or support one department or workgroup. In most organizations, the LAN includes both wired and Wi-Fi network architectures.
As the name implies, a WAN covers a larger area than a LAN. While the LAN is designed to transmit data at high rates between nearby devices, the WAN must provide reliability, security, and efficiency across long distances. A WAN may be private, but it typically utilizes public network infrastructure. Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) creates a virtual network that provides greater flexibility than traditional architectures.
A cloud network is a special type of WAN that connects on-premises systems to the cloud environment. It is designed to optimize access to cloud applications and services. The networking technology itself may be hosted in the cloud.
An edge network is designed to connect centralized systems to edge devices, enabling effective edge computing. It pushes many compute tasks to the edge devices, freeing the centralized systems to handle more complex processes. Using edge devices for compute also reduces application latency for end-users because it eliminates the need for all data to travel off-premise for processing. In other words, processing data closer to where it’s generated makes it actionable faster.
The enterprise network comprises physical, logical, and virtual components that work together to provide connectivity. It may be managed locally on individual devices, through a software overlay, or in the cloud. Modern networks also incorporate an array of security tools to protect data and communications.
Hardware is the foundation of the enterprise network. It includes the physical layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, which consists of cabling and wireless technology. More visible network hardware includes routers, switches, servers, bridges, gateways and hubs, and security devices such as firewalls. These pieces of hardware are typically installed in racks or cabinets for organization, security, and performance reasons.
Traditionally, networks were hardware-focused, but virtualization technologies have increased the emphasis on software. Software-defined networking creates a more agile network with policies programmed and managed through a centralized controller. Network functions virtualization delivers many capabilities via software, eliminating the need for purpose-built appliances. Network software also includes management tools and automation, and orchestration features that streamline many time-consuming tasks.
Network services leverage the hardware and software to deliver the functionality that enables access to IT resources. These include directory services, the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, the Domain Name System, and wireless protocols. File sharing, printing, and email are also considered network services. The Simple Network Management Protocol is among the tools administrators use to monitor and manage the network.
Enterprise networks are at the heart of our company. The Enconnex name stands for “enterprise connectivity experts”. Since 2013, Enconnex has offered an array of products that enterprises and data centers need for their network infrastructure. Our cabinets provide the flexibility to support and protect a wide range of networking equipment, even in tough environments.
Via our network of solutions partners, we can provide our customers nearly all the infrastructure required to set up an enterprise network. From security solutions to cabling to racks and cabinets of all types, Enconnex is your one-stop shop. Let us help you build out the physical infrastructure needed to support a highly reliable, high-performance enterprise network. Get in touch today.