Welcome to our first post in a comprehensive series that will explore in detail what Network Design is. In this series, we will dive into the essential fundamentals of network design, discussing the basic principles that support the creation and maintenance of effective networks. Additionally, we will examine the numerous benefits that a well-structured network design can bring to an organization, such as increased efficiency, enhanced security, and scalability. We will also address common challenges faced during the network design process, offering insights on how to overcome obstacles to meet diverse business needs. Stay with us as we unravel this complex and fascinating topic.

What is Network Design?

Network Design is much more than connecting devices: It is a strategic practice that aligns technology with business goals. By considering the fundamentals, concerns, and challenges described, it is possible to create a robust, flexible, and secure infrastructure that adapts to changes in the business and technological environment. Success depends on balancing simplicity, cost, and security while anticipating future needs and emerging threats.

The two most common approaches to analyzing and developing a new network design are:

Top-Down Approach

The top-down design approach simplifies the design process by breaking tasks into smaller parts, making the project scope simpler and allowing it to be carried out in a more controlled manner. This ultimately helps network engineers evaluate design solutions from a business perspective.

Bottom-Up Approach

The bottom-up approach initially focuses on selecting network technologies and design models. This approach often leads to a high likelihood of design errors because it evaluates technologies and network designs that are already in place, rather than considering business requirements at this stage.

To achieve strategic success and the expected business outcomes with network design, we need to understand the Fundamentals, Principles, and Techniques of Network Design.

You can see in the figure below a simplified view of how these elements of network design are connected:

In our next post, we will explore the fundamentals of network design in depth. We will discuss the basic principles that support effective network design. We will cover how mindset, requirements, design use cases, constraints, "why?" and business are crucial elements that network designers must understand and know how to use.

See you there! 😊