How can you determine the appropriate level of redundancy for a LAN-WAN network?

1 Business requirements

The first step is to identify the business requirements and expectations for the LAN-WAN network. What are the critical applications and services that depend on the network? How much downtime can they tolerate? What are the performance and security standards that the network must meet? How much budget and resources are available for the network design and maintenance? The answers to these questions will help you define the availability, reliability, and scalability goals for the network, as well as the acceptable risks and costs.

2 Network topology

The next step is to analyze the network topology and identify the potential points of failure and congestion. A LAN-WAN network typically consists of multiple layers, such as access, distribution, and core, as well as multiple devices, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and servers. Each layer and device should have a backup or alternative path in case of failure. For example, you can use redundant links, protocols, and routes to provide load balancing and failover between LANs and WANs. You can also use redundant power supplies, fans, and modules to prevent hardware failures. The network topology should also support scalability and flexibility, so that you can add or remove devices and links as needed without disrupting the network.

3 Network management

The final step is to implement and monitor the network management tools and processes that ensure the optimal operation of the network. You should use network management software to configure, control, and troubleshoot the network devices and links, as well as to collect and analyze network performance data. You should also use network security tools to protect the network from unauthorized access, attacks, and breaches. Additionally, you should establish network policies and procedures that define the roles, responsibilities, and best practices for the network administrators, users, and service providers. The network management should also include regular testing, auditing, and updating of the network components and configurations.

Determining the appropriate level of redundancy for a LAN-WAN network is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process that requires careful planning, implementation, and evaluation. By considering the business requirements, network topology, and network management factors, you can design and maintain a LAN-WAN network that meets your needs and expectations.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?