Designing a Network Topology
In this chapter, you will learn techniques for developing a network topology. A topology is a map of an internetwork that indicates network segments, interconnection points, and user communities. Although geographical sites can appear on the map, the purpose of the map is to show the geometry of the network, not the physical geography or technical implementation. The map is a high-level blueprint of the network, analogous to an architectural drawing that shows the location and size of rooms for a building, but not the construction materials for fabricating the rooms.
Designing a network topology is the first step in the logical design phase of the top-down network design methodology. To meet a customer's goals for scalability and adaptability, it is important to architect a logical topology before selecting physical products or technologies. During the topology design phase, you identify networks and interconnection points, the size and scope of networks, and the types of internetworking devices that will be required, but not the actual devices.
This chapter provides tips for both campus and enterprise WAN network design, and focuses on hierarchical network design, which is a technique for designing scalable campus and WAN networks using a layered, modular model. In addition to covering hierarchical network design, the chapter also covers redundant network design topologies and topologies that meet security goals. (Security is covered in more detail in Chapter 8, "Developing Network Security Strategies.") This chapter also covers the Enterprise Composite Network Model, which is part of Cisco's Secure Architecture for Enterprises (SAFE).
Upon completion of this chapter, you will know more about preparing secure, redundant, hierarchical and modularized topologies. The topologies will be a useful tool to help you and your customer begin the process of moving from a logical design to a physical implementation of the customer's internetwork.
Continue reading here: Why Use a Hierarchical Network Design Model
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