A good planned network consists of three basic branches being the WAN [Wide Area Network], LAN [Local Area Network] and the DMZ [DeMilitarized Zone] for the network servers. The WAN is simply the network that extends to the internet. The LAN simply is the production network of the enterprise, connecting a computer to the internet. The DMZ generally is a network for the enterprises servers. Generally a router is used to divide these networks up. The router is a critical piece of equipment, as it functions as a security device or a firewall.
One might also consider another branch as the SAN [Storage Area Network]. A SAN can become complex but also strengthens the network design of the whole enterprise. By using a physical network outside of the main enterprise network, the speed of critical storage devices increases phenomenally, efficiency and effectiveness “skyrocket” too. This is critical in deployments with video production, large databases and critical web delivery solutions.
Network Administration consists of seven areas of concentration, such as:
• Delivery Services
• Web & Email Services
• Networking & VPN Services
• Application Services
• Desktop Management Services
• Streaming Media Services
• File & Print Services
