Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
With the complexities of networks, it is necessary to use architectures and methodologies
in network design to support business goals. The Cisco Prepare, Plan, Design, Implement,
Operate, and Optimize (PPDIOO) network life cycle defines a continuous cycle of phases
in a network's life. Each phase includes key steps in successful network planning, design,
implementation, and operation. The top-down design approach to network design adapts
the network infrastructure to the network applications' needs.
With the constant evolution of networks, Cisco keeps updating its enterprise architec-
tures and frameworks. Business drivers can affect network architecture and technology
force s that affec t bu s ine s s.
Business forces affecting decisions for the enterprise network include the following:
Return on investment:
Companies expect a return (be it cost savings or increased
productivity) on its investments of network infrastructure. The solutions need to use
technology to work within a business solution.
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Key
To p i c
Regulation:
Companies need to meet industry regulations; for example, the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for the health insurance indus-
try and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) for the credit card
industry.
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Competitiveness:
To m a i n t a i n a c o m p e t i t i v e e d g e , c o m p a n i e s n e e d t o u s e t e c h n o l -
ogy to make them more competitive than other businesses.
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The technology forces affecting decisions for the enterprise network are
Removal of borders:
Tradit ional net work boundar ie s have been removed. Acce s s to
network resources need to be enabled from branch offices, teleworkers, home offices,
mobile devices, customers, and partner networks.
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Virtualization:
Allows for the maximization of efficiencies through the reduction of
hardware, power consumption, heating and cooling costs, facilities space, and man-
agement effort. Virtualization and its benefits are a key goal for almost all organiza-
tion. It has gained popularity by industry leaders such as VMware.
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Growth of applications:
Customers continue to ask for new products, service offer-
ings, improved customer service, greater security, and customization flexibility—all
at a lower cost.
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IT optimization areas are divided into three groups:
Data center
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Network
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Applications
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Each group has its own experts, budget, and challenges.
