The design of a modern local area network (LAN) addresses a number of challenges that network architects and administrators are struggling with for the best time. Conventional LANs are designed for a PC workstation that will create significant design challenges for networking new intelligent systems. Frost & Sullivan’s research firm’s report, the Internet of Things (IoT) will change the definition of a fair amount of modern LAN. Another major trend is Edge Computing which, as part of IoT solutions, requires a high capacity Ethernet LAN network.

Traditional LAN networks utilize real estate cabling (4-pair copper wiring, max length 100m) and Ethernet switches. This concept included PC workstations, departmental servers, and printers, and later IP telephones.   In terms of network design, the number of devices, their requirements and traffic profiles were quite different from the present day.

In the modern LAN, the number and density of devices have increased as well as the different quality requirements. LAN wireless network must support clients in addition to a wide variety of IoT devices, IP phones, video – conference equipment, surveillance cameras, access control systems, Wi-Fi base stations as well as TV viewing. The terminals are smarter and demand more from the network.

The following 6 principles will help in design:

Principle 1: Look outside – inside out

View network-connected terminals and their requirements and forget about the features of LAN switches in the early stages of design. Start with IoT devices and leave your PC-workstations last. Define topology and infrastructure with each terminal type, taking into an account power supply, required capacity, and application features.  In general, note that it enables both the local Edge Computing concept and cloud-based networking.

Principle 2: Design security and management components

Try the simplest and most simple management model possible and minimize the risk of core network failure. Achieve a network that is easy to manage, easy to expand and configure, and where potential failures are quickly resolved.

Principle 3: Maximize efficiency and reduce complexity

Take advantage of new technology especially for:

  • Cost of implementation
  • Reducing Complexity (Implementation and Troubleshooting)
  • Contribute to modernization on the access floor to connect new IoT devices
  • Eliminate possible interference of existing uses. There is no need to change everything.

Principle 4: Consider the environment and sustainable development

Modernize terminals and networks by taking sustainable development into account. LAN networks and cabling are part of the property and you should look at the design for example Opportunities for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification) to improve their points.

Practical examples include longer cable runs and fewer cross-cabling and energy-efficient PoE Ethernet switches to reduce e-waste quite a bit.

Principle 5: Separation and segmentation of networks reduces risks

Build a network where it is possible to physically (or at least logically) separate critical IoT devices and applications from less critical and visitor networks. This should be done by implementing unified network management and its principles.

Principle 6: Allocate resources and budget correctly

If you are looking for highly automated network change management, please note that your budget is sufficient for more than only Ethernet switches and cabling. In a large corporate network, automation pays for itself and at the same time significantly improves user experience and security.

By looking at LAN design “from the outside ” the method should take into account the environment and sustainable development, information security and user requirements. It is good to continue with this process of selecting equipment and suppliers.

Hannu Rokka

5Feet Networks Oy