What is Network Architecture?

A design. The term architecture can refer to either hardware or software, or to a combination of hardware and software. The architecture of a system always defines its broad outlines, and may define precise mechanisms as well. 

An open architecture allows the system to be connected easily to devices and programs made by other manufacturers. Open architectures use off-the-shelf components and conform to approved standards. A system with a closed architecture, on the other hand, is one whose design is proprietary, making it difficult to connect the system to other systems. 

Network architecture is a roadmap that provides detail sufficient to guide ongoing network planning, design and implementation. Having developed a network architecture, an organization will then have, in place, a framework for more informed decision making, including appropriate investments in network technologies, products and services.

The architecture of a network usually depends on its intended function. Network Architecture issues include determining how data will flow between the computers on a network (client/server vs. mainframe vs. peer-to-peer), how the computers will communicate with one another, as well as the overall geographic layout of the network and how it connects to other networks (LAN vs. MAN vs. WAN).

Most enterprises choose to develop a network architecture that describes a target network set three to five years into the future. Because it always represents the desired future state of the network, the architecture gives network managers a goal that guides their ongoing implementation activities.

Who Needs Network Architecture?

If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there. If this describes your organization’s network strategy…then YOU NEED network architecture!

Not only can an organization benefit from the implementation of an IT architecture, but more specifically, an enterprise network architecture.

Just as you would not build a house without an architectural drawing, you should not build a network without architecture. The role of a network architect is essentially the same as designing the appropriate infrastructure. Architecture plays an important role in defining an organization’s information technology (IT) strategy. IT infrastructure can be used to describe the underlying infrastructure needed to permit an enterprise’s dissimilar computer systems and networks to work together.

Benefits of Network Architecture

An enabling IT infrastructure is essential to the rapid introduction of new products and services as well as the development of the required applications supporting these initiatives. This is because the IT infrastructure changes the limits of what is achievable. If a firm’s infrastructure does not readily support linkages to customers and suppliers, cross-unit access to databases or the ability to utilize more cost-effective new technologies, the organization will be severely limited in its ability to compete. Staying ahead of the competition requires adding or modifying applications easily and quickly. A flexible infrastructure makes this feasible.