Network architecture refers to the design of a computer network, including the physical components, their functional organization and configuration, operational principles and procedures, and communication protocols used. It defines how network devices and services are structured to serve the connectivity needs of client devices and applications. Network architecture can also include a detailed description of products and services delivered via a communications network, as well as detailed rate and billing structures under which services are compensated.
There are different types of network architectures, including access networks, data center networks, and wide-area networks (WANs) . Access networks are built to recognize, authenticate, and authorize user devices and smart things before bringing them on board, while data center networks need to connect applications in multiple data centers and clouds. WANs, on the other hand, connect users to apps over short or long distances.
Network architecture is important for businesses with an online component, as it has a significant impact on their operation. It defines how data flows efficiently from one computer to another, and there are many ways to approach network architecture design, which depend on the purpose. Network architectures set the overarching structure for the way data flows to, from, and between resources, such as file servers, customer relationship management systems, or databases.
