Network Architecture
Introduction
Network architecture is the design of a computer network. It is a framework for the specification of a network's physical components and their functional organization and configuration, its operational principles and procedures, as well as communication protocols used.
In telecommunication, the specification of a network architecture may also include a detailed description of products and services delivered via a communications network, as well as detailed rate and billing structures under which services are compensated.
The network architecture of the Internet is predominantly expressed by its use of the Internet Protocol Suite, rather than a specific model for interconnecting networks or nodes in the network, or the usage of specific types of hardware links.
Types of Network Architecture
There are several different types of network architecture, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. These include Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), and Personal Area Networks (PANs).
Local Area Networks
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area such as a home, school, office building, or closely positioned group of buildings. Each computer or device on the network is a node. LANs are known for their high transmission speeds over short distances.
Wide Area Networks
A Wide Area Network (WAN) spans a large geographic area, often a country or continent. It contains a collection of machines intended for running user (i.e., application) programs. These machines are connected by a communication network, often a packet-switched network.
Metropolitan Area Networks
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic area or region larger than that covered by even a large Local Area Network (LAN) but smaller than the area covered by a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Personal Area Networks
A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a computer network used for data transmission amongst devices such as computers, telephones, tablets and personal digital assistants. PANs can be used for communication amongst the personal devices themselves, or for connecting to a higher level network and the Internet.
Network Architecture Models
There are several models or frameworks that describe the structure and functioning of a network. These include the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) model.
Open Systems Interconnection Model
The Open Systems Interconnection model (OSI model) is a conceptual model that characterises and standardises the communication functions of a telecommunication or computing system without regard to its underlying internal structure and technology.
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol Model
The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol model (TCP/IP model) is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. TCP/IP can also be used as a communications protocol in a private network (an intranet or an extranet).
Network Architecture Design
Network architecture design is the process of structuring and organizing the network components (hardware, software, connectivity, network services and security) to meet the technical and business requirements of an organization. It involves the evaluation of different design choices, the definition of network structure and the selection of hardware and software components.
Conclusion
Network architecture is a complex field that involves the design and implementation of both physical and logical network components. It plays a crucial role in the efficiency and effectiveness of data communication within and between networks.