Network Architecture
What is Network Architecture
A network architecture is a blueprint of the complete computer communication network, which provides a framework and technology foundation for designing, building, and managing a communication network. It typically has a structure with different layers. Layering is a modern network design principle that divides communication tasks into a number of smaller parts. Each part is accomplishing a particular sub-task and interacting with other parts in a small number of well-defined ways. Layering allows the parts of the communication network to be designed and tested without a combinatorial explosion of cases, keeping each design relatively simple.
If a network architecture diagram is open, no single vendor owns the technology and controls its definition and development. Anyone is free to design hardware and software based on the network architecture. The TCP/IP network architecture, which the Internet is based on, is such an open network architecture and it is adopted as a worldwide network standard and widely deployed in local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), small and large enterprises, and last but not least, the Internet.
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What is Network Architecture Used for
The network architecture and design specialization will help you gain the technical leadership skills that you need when you want to design and implement high-quality networks that support business needs. You will learn how to create, maintain, and troubleshoot the internet, intranet, and extract connections, including local and wide area networks. This specialization will also build your knowledge of developing security and disaster recovery plans. Upon completion of this online degree, you will be well-positioned to assume a senior management or team leader role in network management.
Network Architecture and OSI
Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) network architecture, developed by the International Organization for Standardization, is an open standard for communication in the network across different equipment and applications by different vendors. Though not widely deployed, the OSI 7 layer model is considered as the primary network architectural model for inter-computing and inter-networking communications.
In addition to the OSI network architecture model, there exist other network architecture models by many vendors, such as IBM SNA (Systems Network Architecture), Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC; now part of HP) DNA (Digital Network Architecture), Apple computer's AppleTalk, and Novell's NetWare.
Network architecture provides only a conceptual framework for communications between computers. The model itself does not provide specific methods of communication. Actual communication is defined by various communication protocols.
Examples of Network Architecture
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After you have gone through the basic knowledge of network architecture, there shows you some typical network architecture examples. If you need to see more pre-designed network architecture template, you can visit our Edraw template center. |
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| Network Architecture | Cisco Network Architecture | Cisco Topology |
Symbols of Network Architecture
Pre-made and standard network diagram symbols are very helpful for network engineers when they need to design and demonstrate their network architecture. Edraw Max provides a lot of basic network architecture symbols, which helps you build and read a complex network diagram.
Network and Peripherals
Digital Products
3D Network Diagram Shapes
Basic Network Diagram Symbols
