Computer Network Management

Introduction

Computer networks are essential organizational infrastructure because they allow for the effective sharing of resources and data. To guarantee that a computer network fits the demands of the organization is safe, and can accommodate future expansion, a number of variables must be carefully taken into account when designing it. The five most crucial factors to take into account while constructing a computer network will be covered in this essay.

Network Topology

When creating a computer network, network topology—also known as the physical layout platform of the network—must be taken into account. Network topologies come in a variety of shapes, including bus, ring, star, and mesh. Each topology has benefits and drawbacks. For instance, a bus platform topology is simple to install but may be difficult to manage and debug. On the other side, a star topology could be more costly and expensive to establish but is more dependable and troubleshoot cable (Thangaramya et al., 2019). It is crucial to take the demands of the business into account while building a network topology, including the number of devices that must be connected, their distance from one another, and the level of magnitude of redundancy required. The network platform topology should also be scalable so that it can accommodate future development without necessitating a total rebuild.

Network security

One of the major and most important things to take into account when creating a computer network platform is network security. It deals with safeguarding the network and its resources against unauthorized entry, damage, theft, or disruption. Intrusion detection systems, Firewalls, and encryption are examples of security measures that should be part of a strong network security plan. Control Access is a crucial component of network security. Making sure that only users with permission can access the platform network and its material resources is known as access control (Jia, 2019). It is accomplished via a variety of techniques, including access cards, biometric identification, and passwords. Implementing password policies will help to guarantee that users choose secure passwords and update them frequently. Multi-factor authentication could also be employed as an additional security measure.

Another essential element of network security is a firewall. A firewall is a type of network security platform system that keeps track of and regulates outgoing and incoming network traffic in accordance with pre-established security rules. Firewalls could be installed internally to regulate access between various network components or externally to safeguard the network from attacks. Systems for detecting intrusions (IDS) are another crucial aspect of network security. IDSs keep an eye on network traffic for indications of suspicious or malicious activity and notify network platform administrators when they do (Thangaramya et al., 2019). IDSs can further be network- or host platform-based. Network-IDSs based monitor network traffic, whereas host-based IDSs keep an eye on specific devices.

Another essential element of a network security platform is encryption. Data is encoded using encryption so that only authorized people can access it. It is employed to prevent unauthorized users from intercepting and reading sensitive information, such as credit card and password details. File systems, Network protocols, and individual files are just a few of the several levels at which encryption can be used (Jia, 2019). It is important to conduct regular audits on security in order to find any potential vulnerabilities and fix them right away. , vulnerability scanning, Penetration testing, and security evaluations should all be included in security audits. The technique of simulating a cyber attack on the network platform in order to find any potential vulnerabilities is known as penetration testing. The process of finding network vulnerabilities, such as out-of-date software or unsafe network devices, is known as vulnerability scanning. The process of assessing the network security strategy’s efficacy and identifying location areas for improvement is known as a security assessment.

Network Bandwidth

Another important aspect that must be taken into account when constructing a computer network platform is network bandwidth. It describes the volume of data that may be sent across a network platform in a specific time frame. The speed frequency at which information may be carried over a network is determined by the network bandwidth, which is expressed in bits units per second (bps).

The kind of network topology, network media, and network protocols are some of the variables that affect a network’s bandwidth. The bandwidth aspect of a network can be impacted by network media like fiber-optic cable, copper wire, or wireless radio waves. In comparison to wireless radio waves or fiber-optic cables, copper wire has a smaller bandwidth.

Network bandwidth is also impacted by the network topology. Data must flow via a central hub platform in a star architecture, which can cause a bottleneck and reduce network bandwidth. In comparison, a mesh design allows data to flow directly between nodes, increasing network bandwidth.

Network Redundancy

When designing a network of a computer, network redundancy is another crucial element that must be taken into account. The use of components of backup or alternate routes to ensure network platform availability and reduce downtime in the event of component failure is referred to as redundancy of the network are many techniques to create network redundancy, including using redundant network pathways, redundant network platform devices, and failover systems. In the event of a device failure, redundant network platform devices like routers and switches can be employed to offer backup (Martynov, 2019). For instance, two switches in a platform network can be set up to function redundantly, such that if one goes down, the other platform takes over immediately. To guarantee network availability, redundant platform network paths can further be deployed. Between network devices, many network pathways may be set up, and if one fails, the others take over automatically. Several network protocols, including Equal Cost Multipath and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), can be used to do this. (ECMP).

Network Management

The procedures and equipment utilized to keep the network under observation and upkeep are referred to as network management. When designing a network of computers, network administration must be taken into account to guarantee optimal network performance and rapid resolution of any problems (Martynov, 2019). To track network performance, spot possible problems, and resolve issues, tools of network management should be put into use. Additionally, routine maintenance needs to be carried out to guarantee that network devices have the most recent security updates and firmware.

Conclusion

When designing a network computer, it is important to carefully take into account a number of issues, including security, bandwidth, network topology, redundancy, and management. These elements are interconnected, and a well-designed platform network should incorporate them all into account to make sure it satisfies the requirements of the organization, is safe, and can accommodate future expansion. Organizations may build a strong and dependable network platform infrastructure that will help them accomplish their business goals by adhering to these recommendations.

References

Jia, M., Komeily, A., Wang, Y., & Srinivasan, R. S. (2019). Adopting Internet of Things for the development of smart buildings: A review of enabling technologies and applications. Automation in Construction, 101, 111-126.

Thangaramya, K., Kulothungan, K., Logambigai, R., Selvi, M., Ganapathy, S., & Kannan, A. (2019). Energy-aware cluster and neuro-fuzzy based routing algorithm for wireless sensor networks in IoT. Computer Networks, 151, 211-223.

Martynov, V. V., Shavaleeva, D. N., & Zaytseva, A. A. (2019, September). Information technology is the basis for transformation into a digital society and industry 5.0. In 2019 International Conference” Quality Management, Transport, and Information Security, Information Technologies”(IT&QM&IS) (pp. 539-543). IEEE.