Identifying the Key Components Needed for Modeling Internetworks

Identifying the Key Components Needed for Modeling Internetworks

You need several key components to fully model complex network designs, including the following:

• Access server

• LANs: switches/hubs and cables

• WANs: routers and cables

• Routers

• Test hosts and applications, preferably Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000 or Windows NT

The preceding list should be viewed more as a list of roles than a list of devices. The specific device type is not relevant; what is relevant is the role that the device plays in the model. There are many ways to simulate a WAN. For example, some network models are more accurate if a Frame Relay switch is deployed in the model, while some models might require only a WAN connection because the protocol needed is irrelevant.

The only component in this list that could be considered optional is the access server. The role of the access server can be a useful one, both in the laboratory environment and in the field. In the field, the access server provides out-of-band management where groups of routers are located. Instead of using multiple modems for dial-in access to routers, an access server can serve as a central point for out-of- band management, requiring only one modem instead of many. The primary role of the access server in the lab will be to provide simple and quick configuration access to a stack of routers. We will go over each one of these components in detail and further discuss their relevance in the lab.