Enterprise network infrastructure connects a company’s employees, devices, and applications to share information. It’s more than office Wi-Fi—think servers, cloud connections, and advanced tools for managing data. Companies opt for this setup to handle high data loads and user numbers while keeping information secure.

Our guide will cover:

• A comparison of the different types of enterprise network infrastructures
• The elements that make up an enterprise network infrastructure 
• A quick comparison of the most common network topologies
• Emerging trends taking enterprise networks into the future
• Practical tips for the modern network infrastructure
• How and why Meter can play a pivotal role in your network strategy

The importance of enterprise networking

Enterprise networking matters because it connects a company’s devices, systems, and users, enabling data to move efficiently. The setup improves:

• Collaboration
• Supports daily operations
• Keeps resources accessible

It also helps keep information safe as the company grows. Managing large data and scaling up would be difficult without it.

How does enterprise networking work?

Enterprise networking uses fast routers and switches to move data between:

• Computers
• Servers
• Apps

Modern networks use platforms that handle routing, switching, Wi-Fi, and firewalls. Such a setup reduces silos, makes management easier, and automates tasks.

Hybrid cloud setups need strong security. Internal firewalls help by dividing the network into zones and controlling traffic. Advanced systems connect different networks and check all traffic, inside and out, for better safety. Central dashboards and automated tools keep IT teams one step ahead.

Types of enterprise network infrastructure

Choosing the right network setup can make a big difference for any organization. Let’s break down the three main types of enterprise network infrastructure and see which might suit your needs: Traditional wired networks, wireless networks, or a hybrid network.

Traditional wired networks

These networks use physical cables, like Ethernet or fiber optics, to move data. They’ve been around for ages and have proven themselves when high performance is needed.

Pros

• Wired connections resist interference from walls or other obstacles.
• Modern Ethernet, like 10GbE and above, offers top reliability and speed.
• Ethernet and fiber optic cables deliver fast data transfer for demanding applications.
• Physical access requirements make wired connections more secure.

Cons

• Changing cable setups can be expensive and disruptive.
• Devices remain tethered, limiting mobility.
• Expanding a wired network often involves costly infrastructure upgrades.

Organizations with mostly stationary devices and high demands for speed and reliability benefit the most from wired networks. Data centers, offices filled with desktop computers, and places where security is a top priority are prime examples.

Wireless networks (Wi-Fi)

Wireless networks connect devices to access points (APs) using radio waves, ditching the physical cables. They’ve become a staple in most workplaces.

Pros

• Installing APs is quicker and cheaper than running cables, making growth easier.
• Employees can move around while staying connected, boosting flexibility and teamwork.
• Adding new devices is simple, supporting organizations with changing user needs.
• Modern Wi-Fi, like Wi-Fi 6, offers improved speeds and capacity.

Cons

• Walls, furniture, and other signals can weaken connections and impact performance.
• Strong security measures are needed to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Wireless may not meet extremely high bandwidth or long-distance requirements.

Offices with many laptops and mobile devices benefit from wireless networks for their flexibility. Retail stores, schools, and event spaces also find them useful for the mobility and simple expansion they provide. These networks work well where adaptability and portable devices are important.

Hybrid networks

Hybrid networks blend wired and wireless technologies, offering a balanced mix of both. Hybrid networks fit well for many modern organizations that need flexible connections. 

Pros

• Offers the speed and reliability of wired connections and the mobility of wireless access.
• Allows strategic placement of wired connections for key areas and wireless for wider coverage.
• Simplifies balancing on-premises and cloud resources based on business needs.
• Supports flexible work setups, catering to both stationary and mobile users.

Cons

• Requires expertise in managing both wired and wireless technologies.
• Initial setup costs can be higher due to the combined infrastructure.
• Ongoing maintenance may be more complex, needing specialized support.

Examples of organizations that use hybrid networks include schools that use them to cover classrooms with Wi-Fi while keeping wired connections in labs. Hospitals love them for critical equipment that needs steady connections and wireless for doctors on the move. Even retailers find them handy, balancing secure wired payment systems with wireless for helping customers around the store.

Think of it as the network version of having your cake and eating it too.

Key components of an enterprise network infrastructure

Now that we’ve explored the pros and cons of different types of networks, we can look at what makes them tick.

Routers and switches

Think of routers as the traffic directors of your network. They find the best path for data to move between networks and the Internet.

Enterprise routers:

• Are built to handle higher data volumes
• Offer advanced features like load balancing and failover
• Support complex network designs

Wireless routers perform similar tasks but include built-in access point capabilities for managing Wi-Fi connections.

Enterprise switches are also more sturdy than home versions:

• They manage traffic for a large number of devices
• Support higher speeds
• Often include advanced features like VLANs (Virtual LANs) and Quality of Service (QoS) controls

These enterprise-grade tools help data flow efficiently and prevent slowdowns that can disrupt your work.

Access Points

APs do more than just link your gadgets to the network. In an enterprise setup, they handle a large number of devices at once and let people move around without dropping their connection. They help balance traffic so the network doesn’t get overloaded and can support different network segments (like one for employees and one for guests).

APs also connect to management systems, making it easy for IT teams to monitor and tweak the network as needed. They even boost security by supporting newer protocols and allowing network authentication.

Cabling

Cables are the roads data travels on, and choosing the right type can make or break your network’s performance. Ethernet cables (like Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6a) are the go-to for connecting devices in the same network.

Cat 6 and above cables give faster speeds and work better over longer distances, great for big data loads in enterprises. Fiber optic cables are the high-speed champs, ideal for connecting buildings or areas across a campus. They aren’t just fast—they resist electrical interference, making them reliable for important tasks.

In bigger networks, structured cabling helps keep things organized and easy to scale or fix. Many enterprises use Power over Ethernet (PoE), which powers devices like APs and IP phones through the same cable that handles data. This cuts down on extra power cords.

Redundancy is also important, with dual cable paths set up to keep data moving if one line goes down. In short, cabling in enterprise networks is about keeping connections fast, reliable, and ready for the future.

Network servers

Servers store data and power enterprise networks. They balance tasks across servers to maintain steady performance. Many servers use virtualization, running several virtual machines on one server to save resources.

Failover systems take over if a server fails, keeping work on track. Servers also control data access, to make sure only the right users reach important information. Built to handle high data loads, these servers help businesses grow and keep operations moving.

Security components

With new cyber threats popping up all the time, solid security is a must. Modern networks rely on both appliances and technologies to safeguard information and operations.

Security appliances

These physical or virtual devices are core to enterprise network defense: 

Firewalls

• Act as gatekeepers, filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic to block unauthorized access
• Advanced firewalls for enterprises include deep packet inspection and adaptive threat response
• Help maintain network integrity by stopping suspicious data before it can spread

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)

• Monitor network traffic for unusual or suspicious activity and alert administrators to potential threats
• Can automatically block or contain threats to prevent damage
• Provide real-time responses to security incidents, enhancing network protection

Some modern security appliances are designed for centralized management. Meter’s appliances make this easy with the Meter dashboard. It combines real-time monitoring, policy enforcement, and threat mitigation into one straightforward solution.

Security technologies and practices

In addition to appliances, these methods and frameworks strengthen enterprise network security:

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

• Create secure, encrypted channels for remote employees to access the enterprise network safely
• Help maintain data privacy, even when users are connected through public Wi-Fi
• Ensure that sensitive company information stays protected during remote work

Encryption

• Scrambles data to make it unreadable without the proper decryption key, protecting sensitive information
• Used for data both in transit and at rest to prevent unauthorized access
• Helps meet compliance standards by safeguarding customer and business data

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

• Requires users to verify their identity with more than one method, such as a password and a mobile code
• Reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if login credentials are compromised
• Adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for attackers to breach the network

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

• Operates on a “never trust, always verify” principle, ensuring strict identity checks for access
• Limits user access to only the parts of the network they need, minimizing potential exposure
• Strengthens overall security by continuously validating users and devices

The combination of these two security factors can allow an enterprise to build a reliable defense. You’ll be able to keep your network protected from current and evolving threats.

The most common network topologies in today’s industries

Network topologies determine how devices in a network are connected and how they share data. Among the most common are star, mesh, and hybrid topologies, each suited to specific needs:

1. Star topology connects all devices to a central hub, making it simple to set up and manage.
2. Mesh topology links devices to multiple others, creating a reliable and fast network with backups.
3. Hybrid topology mixes features from other types, giving it the flexibility to handle more complex systems.

A quick comparison:

All of these topologies work well in different settings. Businesses are able to choose which topology works best for them based on size and needs.

Emerging trends shaping enterprise network systems

Enterprise networks are evolving to keep up with new technologies and growing demands. Trends like edge computing, 5G, and automation are driving smarter, faster, and more efficient network solutions.

Edge computing is bringing the cloud closer

Think of edge computing as the friendly neighbor who saves you a trip across town. Instead of sending data all the way to a central server, edge computing processes it closer to where it’s generated—right on the “edge” of your network.

Edge computing reduces delays, which is great when every millisecond matters. Applications like IoT devices, remote monitoring, or real-time analytics thrive with it. The result is faster and more efficient performance while taking some load off your main servers.

5G is speeding things up (a lot)

5G isn’t just for streaming cat videos faster on your phone---it’s changing how enterprise networks operate. With blazing speeds and low lag, 5G supports more devices, better performance, and improved reliability.

It improves connections for:

• Remote sites
• Mobile workers
• Industries like healthcare and logistics

Real-time updates work better with faster speeds. The extra bandwidth handles big data loads with ease and keeps everything working as it should.

Let the network handle itself

Why do everything manually when automation can do it for you? Modern networks are smarter than ever, using tools that handle tasks like traffic management, software updates, and even identifying potential problems.

Automation saves time and helps prevent mistakes that come with repetitive tasks. IT teams can focus on strategic goals while the network takes care of the grunt work. It’s like having a super-efficient assistant that never needs coffee breaks.

Best practices in modern network infrastructure

Modern network infrastructure must keep up with the fast-changing needs of businesses. Using best practices helps build networks that are secure, efficient, and ready to grow.

Modern networks need to grow with your business

Choose infrastructure that handles bigger data loads and can be upgraded without major disruptions. Cloud services and virtual networks help scaling stay simple and downtime low. Flexible switches and routers keep your network ready for future needs.

Managing networks is easier when it’s all in one place

Centralized tools let IT teams tweak network settings, making updates and troubleshooting faster. Modern systems that integrate wired and wireless management help keep things running smoothly.

Virtualization means less hardware and more efficient use of resources

VLANs and software-defined networking (SDN) let you segment and manage networks without adding bulky equipment. SDN automates adjustments, so traffic changes don’t become headaches.

Cyber threats are always evolving, so security needs to stay sharp

In 2020, British airline EasyJet faced a serious cyberattack that exposed the personal data of about nine million customers. Incidents like this show why strong security measures are a must in any business.

Firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and encryption work together to keep data safe. Adding MFA and using Zero Trust principles adds extra layers of protection. Regular updates and audits help spot vulnerabilities early.

Remote work calls for strong, mobile-friendly networks

Advanced access points with fast roaming and load balancing keep connections steady. Wi-Fi 6 or newer tech boosts speed and supports more devices, perfect for a busy, on-the-go workforce.

Redundancy keeps things going when parts of the network fail

Dual cable paths and failover systems act as backups, ensuring data flow doesn’t stop if a problem arises. Backup plans prevent disruptions and keep work on track.

Automation makes network management less manual and more efficient

Tools that monitor traffic and roll out updates save IT teams time and catch issues early. Smart systems can start fixes on their own or notify IT, keeping everything on course.

Cloud networking adds flexibility and scalability to your setup

Cloud-managed services can handle routing, data storage, and apps, easing the load on in-house systems. A hybrid cloud model keeps important data local while tapping into cloud power for extra needs.

Meter’s role in enterprise network infrastructure

Meter simplifies enterprise network infrastructure by handling everything from design to ongoing management and support. By partnering with Meter, IT teams are freed up to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

Meter's features for enterprise network infrastructure include:

• Expert design: Meter offers customized network designs tailored to your space, industry, and devices.
• High-performance hardware: Custom-built switches and access points are included in our service for reliable network connectivity.
• Centralized dashboard: The Meter dashboard provides a user-friendly interface for monitoring and managing your entire network.
• Advanced security: Our service comes with built-in protections like DNS security, malware defense, and VPN capabilities.
• Future-proofing: We provide easy network upgrades to support business growth and new device integration.

Try out Meter yourself and discover how we simplify network lifecycle management and keep your systems running efficiently.