All You Need to Know About Network Design & Implementation
Although many businesses know that they require network design and implementation, not everyone understands the process behind designing and building a network. This article breaks down the key stages involved.
Consultation and discovery
The process starts with understanding the business: gathering information on future plans, endpoints, users, devices, and other network elements. A network may need to be built entirely from scratch, or extended from an existing environment. This discovery phase builds the bigger picture and informs every decision that follows.
The designing stage
With the information gathered, the next step is creating a network diagram — a visual representation of the network's components, their connections, and the flow of information between them. Diagrams are used to identify and analyse requirements, design solutions, and troubleshoot issues later on. They also help improve communication between network users and administrators.
Building a network from scratch requires an extra step in assembling all the connection points. Where an existing network environment is in place, the design must account for current infrastructure, which typically needs to keep running throughout the installation.
Network implementation
Installation typically involves the setup and configuration of network hardware such as routers, switches and access points, alongside cabling and wiring infrastructure. Software components, including operating systems and applications, are also installed where required. Configuring the network — including security protocols — is essential to the network functioning correctly.
Having skilled, accredited engineers helps ensure this process runs smoothly. Before the network goes live, the team carries out comprehensive testing and quality assurance. Depending on the provider, ongoing support and maintenance should follow to keep the network running optimally.