A No-Nonsense Guide to Network Infrastructure Design and Management

In a world racing with tech advancements, old, low-bandwidth networks are like anchors dragging us back.

I remember working with ELGI Equipments, a client we've had for years.

About a decade ago, they revamped their entire network, focusing on not just performance but also future-proofing.

And guess what?

When the pandemic hit, they used that very network we designed to roll out advanced tech like remote audit and virtual reality, keeping their assembly line moving without a single physical touch.

That's the power of a well-engineered and managed network - it's the backbone of everything your organization does.

So, what goes into a network infrastructure?

If you're knee-deep in networks like I am, you know it's complex.

It's like peeling an onion.

You start with the basics - hardware, protocols, topologies, IP addressing, cabling, security, troubleshooting, and wireless networking.

But it's the advanced stuff that gets interesting.

Take advanced routing techniques, for instance

When we step beyond the basic routing protocols, we get into Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) and traffic engineering algorithms to optimize data flow and reduce latency.

These aren't just buzzwords, they're game-changers in how data zips through networks.

We did this for Mumbai International Airport.

Their old network was choking their operations with network latency and bandwidth issues so severe that it wasn't just about slow emails, it was about delaying flights and affecting critical operations.

Imagine the frustration of thousands of travelers and the ripple effect on global travel schedules.

So, we gave them a complete overhaul with an MPLS backbone.

With its ability to prioritize and fast-track data, we transformed the airport's network from a clogged pipeline to a superhighway of information.

And it's not just about speed, it's about smartly directing traffic where it needs to go when it needs to get there.

This approach doesn't just solve current problems, it anticipates future needs.

Mumbai International Airport is the first airport in India to get an MPLS network backbone.

Now, they're set for the future.

Then there's Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)

Consider it like an x-ray scanner at the airport security check, checking your cabin luggage.

Data moves in packets. DPI conducts a thorough inspection of each packet, monitoring, categorizing, and even blocking potentially risky network traffic, taking the security quotient to another level.

Next, we’ve Network Slicing in 5G

You must be aware of the virtualization of networks, right? Network slicing allows you to do the same thing but with the capabilities, speed, and low latency of 5G.

You can create multiple virtual networks with different characteristics - one for the guest users, one for the university students, and one specifically dedicated to research projects - within a single physical network.

Sounds revolutionary, doesn't it?

There’s also Edge Computing for Ultra-low Latency

You running back and forth to your maths teacher after solving each step of the problem versus solving the entire problem with your maths teacher - that’s the difference between a traditional setup and an edge computing setup.

Edge computing reduces the cloud access latency by 30%. Hospitals and airports just cannot afford latency. In such environments, edge computing is apt.

It takes the computing and processing power right near the data source. Less time for the data to travel and less time to process results in lower latency and reliable operations.

And, Software Defined Networking(SDN)

Every other person dealing with networks hears it so very often. So, what is it?

I may be oversimplifying here, but just the ability to control and define your network using software is SDN. In proper technical terms, you separate the control panel from the data panel of the network. And that allows you to better manage the network, more flexibly and efficiently.

Let’s say a particular network component isn't demanding high network bandwidth. Whereas for some other component in a different region, the bandwidth demand is high. Without SDN, your network will be a bottleneck.

In such scenarios, SDN can dynamically allocate more bandwidth to that particular section and optimize the network performance on the fly. It reduces operational costs and makes for more agile traffic handling.

An apt example that comes to my mind is Siemens. Three different applications - office, prototyping, and R&D - and they handle the networks using SDN.

Let’s come to the heart of the network infrastructure - the data center

They’re the backbone of the network infrastructure. The heavy lifting to manage the network, bandwidth, latency, performance, and other crucial aspects is done at the data center.

In a network infrastructure, data center is the centre of computing power of your entire network infrastructure. Powerful servers with the ability to process huge amounts of data manage the computing demands of the network.

Data center acts as the bridge between the servers, the network devices and the internet. The deployment of security measures - firewall, access control, encryption - and reliability and redundancy measure is done at the data center level.

And most importantly, we design the data centers with flexibility and scalability in mind. So when you need to adapt to the changing needs, you can do so without breaking a sweat.

What are the various types of Network Infrastructure?

Discussing the different types of network infrastructure, the best example I can think of is IIM Kozhikode. The education institute was held back thanks to its old network framework.

IIM Kozhikode is a huge campus - with 3000 active ports and 1000+ active users. And to create a seamless connection in every nook and corner of the institute was a challenge we had to solve. The demands of the pandemic and the digital native students brought in more challenges for us.

The first aspect of this project was a solid wired network backbone. And that brings us to the first kind of network infrastructure.

Wired Networks

To cover the vast landscape and academic blocks of IIMK, we used a wired network. We set up a Local Area Network(LAN) for the more intensive and demanding tasks.

Now, there are two types of wired networks - ethernet and optic fiber.

Ethernet

Ethernet is a more traditional wired network, while optic fiber is a more advanced and capable technology. We set up LAN for IIMK using ethernet. Ethernet is a standardized protocol that defines how data packets should be placed on the network, addressed, transmitted, and received.

Fibre Optics

Ethernet easily met the performance demands of the IIMK. Hence, we didn't deploy the optic fiber. However, it’s extremely effective and efficient where you need high bandwidth and faster data transfer speeds.

I’m going a bit beyond the IIMK use case, but let's explore the two different fiber optic cables.

Single-Mode Fiber: It’s designed for long-distance transmission. It uses a small core that allows only one mode of light to propagate. Ideal for applications requiring high bandwidth over extended distances.

Multi-Mode Fiber: This has a larger core, and allows multiple modes of light to propagate. It’s better suited for shorter distances and applications with lower bandwidth requirements.

Now. let’s come back to the IIMK use case.

Wireless Networks

Wi-Fi

It is the standard technology for wirelessly connecting devices within a local area network (LAN). Wi-Fi has become so common and essential in our day to day lives. It provides the convenience of quick wireless connectivity in homes, offices, public spaces, and beyond.

For the general on-campus connectivity, IIMK has more than 500 wireless access points that support Wi-Fi 802.11AC wave. Because of this wireless connectivity, self-services and BYOD run smoothly. Wi-fi has continuously evolved, with increased data transfer rates, improved performance, and enhanced security. 802.11ax is the latest standard.

86% of the network officials of various enterprises believe that advanced wireless network technologies will transform their organization within 3 years. 79% say the same for the entire industry.

5G

JP Morgan in its recent article claimed that 5G adoption can save 16% of costs for healthcare facilities by using remote monitoring tools for patients.

The fifth generation of wireless technology, 5G, is revolutionizing connectivity with faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect a massive number of devices simultaneously.

5G introduces the concept of network slicing. It also enhances mobile broadband capabilities. More consistent and high-quality network experience, particularly in high-traffic areas, is the result.

Hybrid Networks

The focus of hybrid networks is to create a seamless integration between the wired and wireless components of the network. They are the best of both worlds - the reliability of wired networks combined with the flexibility and mobility of the wireless networks.

Hybrid networks often employ load balancing and redundancy strategies. These mechanisms distribute network traffic efficiently and provide backup routes, improving overall network reliability.

IIMK neither functions solely on wired networks, nor solely on wireless networks. It’s a judicious combination of both, developed by our team after a thorough assessment. And that leads to the creation of hybrid networks.

Your application may benefit more from a robust wired network than a wireless network.

The advantage of the scalability and flexibility

As we have already defined a basic architecture for IIMK’s network infrastructure, when they want to scale or tweak it in the future, it is easy. It is easy because the wired and wireless components already co-exist in that network environment.

Designing a Solid Network Infrastructure

Even though the networks do the same thing of transporting data from one point to another, all these three cases that I’ve discussed - Mumbai International Airport, ELGI Equipments, and IIM Kozhikode - they use different infrastructure design.

The reason being, their needs differ.

Network infrastructure design is creating a foundation to build your network upon. There are four major factors to consider while designing.

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning involves defining the objectives and requirements of the network. This phase includes understanding the organization's needs, considering future growth, and aligning the network design with business goals.

Selecting the right Hardware

This involves selecting routers, switches, servers, and other devices based on performance, capacity, and compatibility with the intended use. The right hardware reduces bottlenecks, and supports the network's intended functionality.

Physical and Wireless Connections

Design includes the layout of both physical and wireless connections. This entails determining the placement of routers, switches, access points, and cabling to optimize coverage, minimize interference, and ensure reliable connectivity.

Integrating Security Protocols

This involves implementing encryption, firewalls, access controls, and monitoring systems to safeguard data and prevent unauthorized access. A robust security infrastructure protects against cyber threats, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information.

It’s an Iterative Process

It involves continuous evaluation, testing, and refinement to address evolving requirements, technology advancements, and security threats. By doing this, you ensure the network remains adaptable and resilient over time.

Wondering what the benefits of a Good Network Infrastructure are?

Imagine the communications going haywire for just 10 minutes at the Mumbai International Airport. Chaos, right? In an environment where flight status updates and communication among the authorities and personnel are critical, a solid network infrastructure prevents chaos, mix-ups, and delays.

Boosting Efficiency and Productivity

The better the network infrastructure, the faster the data transfer speeds, the faster the communication and updates, the more reliable the operations, better efficiency, and so on. Do you see the domino effect at play here? And when the machines are working so seamlessly, productivity goes up dramatically.

Lowered Costs

The average cost of downtime per minute for small businesses is $427 and $9,000 for larger enterprises. Not at IIMK.

By dynamically managing the resources and not spending a penny to increase their performance ceiling, IIMK can work efficiently and smoothly on that network infrastructure.

Enhanced Security

According to CISCO, cyber fatigue affects around 42 percent of companies and weakens their defence.

I’ve seen so many instances of old-school network infrastructure being easy to crack. Lackluster security standards and compliance are the culprits. But modern networks are built differently as security is the top priority for them.

Access Control

It involves implementing user authentication, authorization mechanisms, and role-based access controls to ensure that only authorized individuals can access specific resources. Strict access controls minimize the risk of unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.

Firewalls

They inspect and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

Encryption

Encoding data using algorithms to make it unreadable without the appropriate decryption keys is encryption. It protects sensitive information from eavesdropping and unauthorized access.

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)

It detects and responds to security incidents, providing real-time alerts or automated actions to prevent or mitigate threats.

Software Updates and Patch Management

Regular updates and patches fix known vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of exploitation by malicious actors.

Incident Response Plan

Preparing for security incidents is a proactive measure. Developing an incident response plan outlines procedures for identifying, responding to, and recovering from security incidents.

With all these, you minimize downtime and data loss in the event of a security breach.

Getting the Network Infrastructure Management Right

There are two ways to manage your network. But only those who know the ins and outs of the game can manage the network, especially as it gets complex.

Managed Services VS NaaS

Consider traditional managed services as your computer lab. You own the machines and the other infrastructure. But you have employed an IT guy to maintain it for you.

NaaS is more like an end-to-end solution. All the machines in the lab are provided by the service provider. If the strength of the class increases and you need more machines, it is the service provider’s responsibility to address those demands.

NaaS is on the rise. Global NaaS market is set to reach a value of $155.17 billion by 2030.

Neither one of them is the absolute right way. You may be better off with Managed Services if you don't need to scale too frequently. But if you do, NaaS is a better option.

A table of Traditional Managed vs NaaS

Tools to manage the Network Infrastructure

They are just tools that make network management that much easier. Network Performance Monitoring, Configuration Management solutions, Network Visualisation tools, and so on, play an important role in the upkeep and optimization of the networks.

They give you all the data and performance metrics of your network, helping you make better decisions. If you aren't using them, you're missing out.

AI and ML helping with Network Management

A recent study by IBM concluded that companies with AI and automation security tools contain data breaches 108x fasterthan a company that doesn’t.

Imagine if you can look away from the critical operations because you’ve the support of AI and ML to manage the network. You can rely on it to predict and notify you for network maintenance, anomalies, threats, and network optimizations.

The cries of frequent downtimes will be gone.

How do these tools work?

Advanced algorithms, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) are the secrets behind these tools. They use them to proactively identify and resolve potential issues. They are constantly hunting for some anomaly or issue to pop up, way more frequently than a human can ever do.

Challenges of Network Infrastructure

Scalability, future-proofing, and compatibility among the hardware components are a few of the many challenges we constantly face when met with the task of a network infrastructure overhaul. It’s not an easy job. It tests your capabilities and understanding every single time.

That’s why you need an expert team who can be your true guide to navigate through the challenges.

What about Security concerns of the Network Infrastructure?

Security is paramount. The network is the most common entry point for a cyber-criminal. Apart from the obvious security measures - firewall, threat detection, endpoint protection - we double down on zero-trust policies. Even an insider, knowingly or unknowingly, can be a potential threat.

At Netcon, we ensure a thorough involvement of our cybersecurity team in each network project. It helps big time.

Where do you rate your network security posture?

Final Thoughts

Your network isn't just wired; it's the lifeblood of your operations. Embrace AI, ride the NaaS wave, and keep your network agile. It's not just about tech; it's about strategic growth. Upgrade, optimize, and future-proof—your network deserves the spotlight. Here's to seamless operations and unstoppable success!