Technologies for Enhancing Network Performance

Technologies for Enhancing Network Performance

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate network administration and management skills.
• Identify and use network tools for troubleshooting.
• Understand implications of major protocols and standards.
• Apply technologies to improve performance of data, voice, and video transmission.

Network Protocols

• Definition: Rules for communication between network devices.
• Importance:
  • Standardizes communication across devices.
  • Enables seamless data transition.
  • Ensures reliability and efficiency.

Key Networking Protocols

• TCP/IP: Manages data transmission on the internet; splits data into packets.
• HTTP: Transfers web resources; works with TCP/IP for website loading.
• Ethernet: Governs wired communication within local networks (LANs).

International Standards

• IEEE 802.3: Standard for wired LANs ensuring device compatibility.
• ISO/OSI Model: Framework for data travel across networks in seven layers.

Importance of Protocols and Standards

• Interoperability: Allows devices from different manufacturers to communicate.
• Scalability: Enables easy network expansion.
• Security: Guidelines for encryption and firewall implementation.

Gigabit Switches & Routers

• Gigabit Switch: Connects multiple devices within a LAN, enabling high-speed data sharing.
  • Features: Speeds up to 1 Gbps, creates multiple communication channels.
• Router: Connects different networks and routes data.
  • Features: Assigns IP addresses, provides network security.

Importance of Gigabit Switches and Routers

• Data Routing: Ensures efficient data travel between networks.
• Connectivity: Provides internet access to local networks.

Types of Gigabit Switches

• Unmanaged Switch: Simple plug-and-play.
• Managed Switch: Configurable for larger networks.
• Smart Switch: Limited management capabilities.
• PoE Switch: Supplies power and data.

Quality of Service (QoS), VoIP, and Video Compression

• QoS: Manages and prioritizes data traffic; important for real-time applications.
• VoIP: Enables voice communication over the internet; cost-effective and flexible.
• Video Compression: Reduces video file size for smoother streaming on bandwidth-limited networks.

Benefits

• QoS ensures critical applications function during peak times.
• VoIP allows cost-effective communication anywhere with an internet connection.
• Video compression enhances user experience during streaming, adapting to network conditions.