Large Scale Networks Reading Res

Large Scale Network (LSN) design requires combination of latest practical and theoretical knowledge. Example of Large Scale Network would include Enterprize Networks (Corporate Intranet, Point-of-Sale management Network, etc.), Commercial/Operators Networks (ISP, FTTH, IP Telephony/TV Service Network, Mobile Phone Operators Backbone, Wi-Max Operator's Network, etc.), Public Networks (School Net, Research and Education Networks, E-Government Networks, Health Networks, etc.). Also now apprearing very large scale Overlay Networks (such as CDN, P2P service delivery, soci-techno networks).

A Large Scale Network must be reliable, secure, and manageable. It must be optimally provisioned. It must also be extensible to keep up with the growth of technology and owner's requirements. Network design requires practical understanding of latest in areas such as 40-100 GB links, Fiber to the Curb/Home, Wireless Mesh to protocol in Network Security, Voice over IP (VoIP), IPv6, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Identity Services, etc. It also requires knwledge about network engineering optimization techniques. Though various mathematical analytical means a good design can be achieved to provide right reliability, quality of service and security. Also, over last 4-5 years, the complex network analysis is making available additional analytical techniques to designers on tackling very large scale networks.

Cost is the overarching factor in the large scale network design. Designer must know the cost implication of various components of its design and operation. At the end- the designer must be able to design the network that meets specified performance goals within the financial sutainability constraints of the organization operating/owning the network. Even outsourcing of large scale netwok using commercial data services alternatives require stated knowlhow to estimate cost savings and evaluate bids from competing carriers.

For LSN both the short term and long term cost implication of the design choices are critical. Non-optimized design and consequent over provisioning and underprovisioning can have disastorous and painful implication on financial sustainability. On the contrary a forward looking balanced design can provide long term strategic advantage.

Handbook of Large-Scale Random Networks