Networking

A well designed data center should insure quality network devices are deployed to insure a robust, reliable and compliant infrastructure exists. The following hardware components are typically found in a computer network. The Data Center Manager must coordinate the efforts of other infrastructure departments when installing these components in communication facilities. Data Centers may contain an independent data frame (IDF), or main distribution frame (MDF) which is the network boundary point for all telecommunications equipment.

• KVMs - Allow remote access to servers for the purpose of system administration
• Routers - A device that forwards network data packets to computer networks
• Switches - A device that links network segments or network devices
• VOIP - Voice Over IP, allows telephone calls to be made over computer networks
• Wireless Access Point - A central transmitter & receiver on a wireless network
• Load Balancer - A device that distributes network traffic over multiple links
• Repeaters & Hubs - Repeaters repeat electric signals while hubs broaden a network
• Firewall Appliances - A network security device that controls network traffic
• Network Interface Controller - A wired or wireless component that connects to a computer network