Devices in a Small Network

Identify the devices used in a small network.

Small Network Topologies

• The majority of businesses are small most of the business networks are also small.
• A small network design is usually simple.
• Small networks typically have a single WAN connection provided by DSL, cable, or an Ethernet connection.
• Large networks require an IT department to maintain, secure, and troubleshoot network devices and to protect organizational data. Small networks are managed by a local IT technician or by a contracted professional.

Device Selection for a Small Network

• Like large networks, small networks require planning and design to meet user requirements.
• Planning ensures that all requirements, cost factors, and deployment options are given due consideration.
• One of the first design considerations is the type of intermediary devices to use to support the network.
• Factors that must be considered when selecting network devices include:
• • cost
  • speed and types of ports/interfaces
  • expandability
  • operating system features and services

IP Addressing for a Small Network

• When implementing a network, create an IP addressing scheme and use it. All hosts and devices within an internetwork must have a unique address.
• Devices that will factor into the IP addressing scheme include the following:
• • End user devices – The number and type of connections (i.e., wired, wireless, remote access)
  • Servers and peripherals devices (e.g., printers and security cameras)
  • Intermediary devices including switches and access points
• It is recommended that you plan, document, and maintain an IP addressing scheme based on device type.
• The use of a planned IP addressing scheme makes it easier to identify a type of device and to troubleshoot problems.

Redundancy in a Small Network

• In order to maintain a high degree of reliability, redundancy is required in the network design.
• Redundancy helps to eliminate single points of failure.
• Redundancy can be accomplished by installing duplicate equipment.
• It can also be accomplished by supplying duplicate network links for critical areas.

Traffic Management

• The goal for a good network design is to enhance the productivity of the employees and minimize network downtime.
• The routers and switches in a small network should be configured to support real-time traffic, such as voice and video, in an appropriate manner relative to other data traffic.
• A good network design will implement quality of service (QoS). Priority queuing has four queues. The high-priority queue is always emptied first.

Other related topics

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