5 Elements of Network Architecture

John Spacey, October 13, 2019

Network architecture is the structural design of computer networks. This is a core component of the design of digital infrastructure that has implications for security, performance, resilience and the cost of services such as office connectivity and facilities such as data centers. The following are common elements of network architecture.

Logical Architecture

Logical network architecture is the basic structure of a network that is abstracted away from the details of devices. This is a starting point in the design of networks that remains an important conceptual reference that remains in place as the details of your devices and configurations evolve.

Client-Server	Logical Architecture
Nodes	Peer-to-peer
Proxy	Reverse Proxy

Network Type

Network architecture ranges from the major infrastructure of a nation or telecom company all the way down to home networks that are used to automate, connect and provide entertainment in a modern residence.

Content Delivery Network	Deep Space Network
Extranet	Internet Backbone
Internet Of Things	Intranet
Local Area Network	Overlay Network
Personal Area Network	Pervasive Networks
Private Network	Public Network
Wide Area Network

Network Performance

The design of networks for speed and service quality. Network architects are also typically required to resolve complex performance issues such as a bottleneck that requires a structural change to a network.

Bottleneck	Dedicated Line
Horizontal Scale	Latency
Network Throughput	Point Of Presence
Root Cause	More ...

Network Infrastructure

The evaluation, selection, design and implementation of network infrastructure. This includes network devices such as routers, infrastructure services such as telecom links and facilities such as data centers.

Data Centers	Internet Exchange Point
IT Infrastructure	Last Mile
Load Balancing	Microtrenching
Optical Fiber	More ...

Network Security

The design of networks to prevent unauthorized access, disruption or use. This includes elements of infrastructure that can detect, prevent, mitigate and manage attacks.