What is Network Architecture?
Network architecture refers to the design framework that defines how devices, connections, and protocols are organised within a network. It covers the physical layout of devices (topology), the logical model governing communication (client-server vs. peer-to-peer), and strategies for dividing and securing the network (segmentation).
Understanding network architecture is essential because the choices made at the design stage directly affect a network's performance, security, scalability, and ease of management.
The three main areas you need to know for A2.2 are:
- Network topologies — the physical or logical arrangement of devices
- Networking models — how devices interact and share resources
- Network segmentation — dividing a network into smaller, controlled sections
Network Topologies
A network topology describes the arrangement of devices and the connections between them. The topology you choose affects reliability, scalability, cost, and troubleshooting difficulty.
The physical or logical arrangement of devices and the links connecting them within a network.
The main topologies you need to know are star, mesh, and hybrid.
