Enterprise Branch Architecture

Last Updated on Sat, 05 Aug 2023 | Network Design

Recall that the Cisco Enterprise Architecture, based on the Cisco SONA, includes branch modules that focus on the remote places in the network. Enterprises are seeking opportunities to protect, optimize, and grow their businesses by increasing security; consolidating voice, video, and data onto a single IP network; and investing in applications that will improve productivity and operating efficiencies. These services provide enterprises with new opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and safeguard information assets in all their locations.

The Cisco Enterprise Branch architecture takes into account the services that enterprises want to deploy at their endpoints, no matter how far away the endpoints are or how they are connected. Figure 5-23 illustrates how branch services relate to the other parts of the Cisco Enterprise architectures.

NOTE Teleworker architecture is covered in the later "Enterprise Teleworker (Branch of One) Design" section.

Figure 5-23 Enterprise Branch Services

Figure 5-23 Enterprise Branch Services

Branches Enterprise

Cisco

Security

Agent

Access Router. WAN+ Firewall+VPN+IDS+ Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express+Cisco Unity Express

Communications

Securit

Cisco ^Security Agent

Wireless

Branch

Branch

Communications

Cisco

Catalyst

Switches

Cisco

Catalyst

Switches

Cisco

Security

Agent

Access Router. WAN+ Firewall+VPN+IDS+ Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express+Cisco Unity Express

Communications

Securit

Cisco ^Security Agent

Wireless

Communications

Branch

Branch

The Cisco Enterprise Branch Architecture, illustrated in Figure 5-24, is an integrated, flexible, and secure framework for extending headquarters applications in real time to remote sites. The Cisco Enterprise Branch Architecture applies the SONA framework to the smaller scale of a branch location.

Figure 5-24 Enterprise Branch Architecture

Instant Messaging

Unified Messaging

R

FID

Cisco Unified MeetingPlace

Video Delivery

Application Delivery (WAAS)

Application-Oriented Networking

Network Infrastructure Virtualization

Network Infrastructure Virtualization

Infrastructure Management

Network Infrastructure Virtualization

Network Infrastructure Virtualization

Infrastructure Management

Common Branch Network Components

Router

Security Appliance

Video Equipment

Call Processing

Laptop

Access Point

Video Equipment

Call Processing

IPCC

Switch

Phone

Common network components that might be implemented in the Enterprise Branch include the following:

■ Routers providing WAN edge connectivity

■ Switches providing the LAN infrastructure

■ Security appliances defending the branch devices

■ Wireless access points for device mobility

■ Call-processing and video equipment for IP telephony and video support

■ End-user devices, including IP phones and computers

Continue reading here: Enterprise Branch Design

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Readers' Questions

  • Katherine
    Is branch a part of enterprise network?
    12 months ago
    • Yes, a branch can be a part of an enterprise network. An enterprise network is a network of connected computers, servers, and other devices used by businesses and organizations to facilitate communication and access shared resources, such as applications, files, printers, and databases. A branch network is a network of two or more computers and other devices that are located in different geographic areas, or branches of the organization, but are connected together to provide centralized access to shared resources.