Understanding the Network Architecture
>Setting the stage, what and why?
- In order to secure and defend a network, we need to have a clear understanding of both the logical and physical aspects of the network architecture because we can't protect what we don't know.
- If mistakes are there in the architecture implementation, it will be a huge blow to the network security.
- Network design is an extremely delicate and complex process
>Conceptual Design
- High level design of the network and only includes the "core" components of a network that will be deployed
- Helps to understand the overall purpose of a network
- Utilises the black box diagramming, internal mechanics aren't discussed. This way the complex systems are simplified.
>Logical Design
- More detailed than Conceptual Design and represents each logical function in the system
- Include the major components of a network and their relationship is also mapped out. It also includes business services, application names and other such relevant information
- It depicts how data passes between devices on the network (data flow) and comes close to breaking down how the network will actually operate in the real scenario.
- Created primarily for developers and security architects
- Differs from the physical design as the physical cables and all such stuff is not depicted.
Example: In physical design, the network topology would be discussed, but it won't, in Logical Design
>Physical Design
- Usually the last design created before the final implementation and used by the network implementation team.
- Includes all the major components within specific servers areas or software services, software and solutions.