Network Management

• Flat (all elements are at the same level-3)
• According to the physical layout of equipment
• According to functional requirements

• An important element is the "intermediate distribution frame (IDF)
• Termination point for all floor's machines
• Label each frame with building, floor, and serial number
• Label each connection with room number and jack identifier
• Example 1/4/2/12A: building 1, floor 4, frame 2, room 12, jack A

In large buildings a main distribution frame (MDF), often located at the data centre, acts as a central hub.

Basic principles:

• Simple architecture
• Reliable implementation
• Labeling and documentation
• Use the best wiring you can afford
• UPS at the distribution frames
• Consistently locate IDFs on each floor
• Use clear demarcation points for network providers
• Utilise open protocols (IETF, IEEE)
• Adopt simple routing
• Use specialised routers (not general-purpose computers)
• Minimise number of vendors
• Avoid bleeding-edge technology

Distribution frame. On the bottom one can see the UPS units.

• PreviousOrganising the Data Centre
• Contents
• NextEmail Services

 Last change: Tuesday, December 9, 2003 9:31 pm
 Unless otherwise expressly stated, all original material on this page created by Diomidis Spinellis is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Greece License.