What is enterprise networking?

Supporting various business operations across multiple locations and departments requires a network infrastructure capable of such high demand. We understand how the more complex your network becomes, the harder it is to ensure security and make it scalable.

Larger organizations benefit greatly from enterprise networking solutions like ours, as these systems are perfect for connecting devices and users across the enterprise.

In this article, you’ll discover:

• What enterprise networking is
• The different types of enterprise networks
• The benefits associated with enterprise networking
• Best practices to follow
• How to solve your enterprise networking needs with Meter

What is enterprise networking?

Enterprise networking is the design and management of business networks that connect a wide array of systems, devices, and users within large organizations.

These networks support the communication and resource-sharing needs of enterprises, allowing data to flow effortlessly and securely across different locations and departments.

Types of enterprise networks

Enterprise networks include many diverse types that highlight the flexibility and complexity involved in designing and managing enterprise network infrastructure.

The following types each serve a specific purpose and address unique challenges so that businesses can optimize their operations and support their strategic goals.

Local Area Network (LAN)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is confined to a limited geographical area, such as an office building or a campus.

LANs enable high-speed data transfer among local devices, making them essential for everyday operations within an organization. A typical LAN setup includes ethernet cables, switches, and routers to connect computers, printers, servers, and other devices.

LANs support applications such as file sharing, printing services, and database access, providing the foundational infrastructure for internal communication and resource sharing​.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A Wide Area Network (WAN) spans broader geographic regions, connecting multiple LANs over long distances.

WANs use technologies like Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), leased lines, broadband Internet, and satellite links to link branch offices or remote users to the central corporate network.

This type of network supports enterprise-wide communication, resource sharing, and centralized data management, making it suitable for organizations with geographically dispersed locations​.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) extends the reach of LANs without the need for physical cables.

Using Wi-Fi technology, WLANs connect devices wirelessly within a local area, offering flexibility and mobility for users. WLANs often include access points (APs) to extend network coverage and manage wireless connections.

Such a network is particularly useful in environments where cabling is impractical or where mobile device connectivity is necessary, such as in modern office spaces and educational institutions​.

Cloud-based networks

Cloud-based networks use cloud infrastructure to deliver scalable, flexible, and often more cost-effective network solutions by using virtualized network resources and cloud service providers.

Enterprises can access and manage their networking resources via the Internet with cloud-based networks, often reducing the need for extensive on-premises hardware.

Cloud networks support remote access, resource scalability, and disaster recovery solutions, aligning with modern business needs for agility and remote work support.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a city or a large campus, connecting multiple LANs within that area.

MANs typically use high-speed fiber optic connections or wireless infrastructure to provide efficient communication and resource sharing across different buildings and locations within a metropolitan area. Networks like these are ideal for organizations with several sites within a metropolitan area, such as universities and large corporations​.

Storage Area Network (SAN)

A Storage Area Network (SAN) provides a dedicated high-speed network that connects storage devices to servers.

SANs are useful to enterprises with substantial data storage needs, offering high performance, redundancy, and centralized management of storage resources.

A SAN supports data-intensive applications, such as databases and large-scale virtualization environments.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

A Personal Area Network (PAN) is used for short-range communication between devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

While smaller in scale, PANs are typically used for personal device communication, connecting devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops for data synchronization, file transfer, and short-range communication. Technologies like Bluetooth and USB are commonly used in PANs​.

Enterprise private network

An Enterprise Private Network is built and maintained by an organization for its exclusive use, providing complete control over network performance and security.

These networks are designed to support specific business needs and can include a mix of LANs, WANs, and other network types to connect different parts of the organization securely and efficiently​.

Benefits of enterprise networking

Enterprise networking offers a few benefits to those willing to take advantage of them.

The first benefit includes increased efficiency, which leads to:

• Fast communication: Enterprise networks promote rapid communication between devices, enabling real-time data exchange and reducing delays in operations.
• Reliable data transfer: Consistent and reliable data transfer supports cohesive workflows and reduces the risk of data loss or corruption.
• Operational streamlining: By integrating various systems and applications, enterprise networks streamline business processes, leading to smoother operations and reduced manual intervention.

Next, we have scalability, which offers:

• Growth accommodation: Designed to expand as the business grows, accommodating additional devices and users without degrading performance.
• Resource allocation: Dynamic resource allocation allows the network to efficiently manage increased traffic and workloads.
• Future-proofing: Adaptability to new technologies and business needs provides a long-term solution for growing enterprises.

Advanced security measures benefit enterprises by protecting sensitive corporate data from cyber threats using:

• Encryption: Protect data in transit and at rest, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to access sensitive information.
• Firewalls: Act as barriers between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, monitoring and controlling network traffic.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Continuously monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and potential threats, allowing for quick identification and response to security breaches.

Finally, Modern enterprise networks require flexibility for things such as:

• Device support: Support a wide range of devices, including desktops, laptops, mobile devices, and IoT devices, enabling diverse working environments.
• Application compatibility: Support various applications, assisting different business functions and processes.
• Remote work: Remote access capabilities allow employees to work from anywhere, maintaining productivity outside the traditional office setting.
• IoT integration: This feature incorporates IoT devices, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling advanced data analytics.

Trends in enterprise networking

Enterprise networking is evolving rapidly to keep pace with technological advancements and changing business needs. Key trends include:

Cloud integration

The shift towards cloud solutions is enhancing flexibility and supporting remote work by enabling access to network resources from anywhere.

Enterprises can use cloud infrastructure for scalable and cost-effective solutions, reducing the need for extensive on-premises hardware.

Enhanced cybersecurity

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, enterprises are adopting AI-driven security measures. Automated threat detection and response systems that identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in real time provide a proactive approach to network security.

AI and machine learning

AI and machine learning technologies are optimizing network performance and automating routine tasks.

AI can analyze network traffic, predict potential issues, and recommend improvements, which leads to more efficient network management and reduces the burden on IT staff.

IoT integration

The rise of IoT devices necessitates robust network designs capable of handling a large number of connected devices. Greater bandwidth, improved security measures, and advanced data management capabilities are required to support the increased data flow and efficient device communication.

Network as a Service (NaaS)

NaaS offers scalable, cost-effective network management solutions by allowing enterprises to outsource their networking needs.

The management of network infrastructure is simplified by this model, which reduces complexity and enables businesses to focus on their core activities while benefiting from advanced network capabilities.

Best practices

Adopting best practices in network management is essential for maintaining optimal performance, security, and scalability. Here are some actionable tips for network engineers:

Continuous monitoring of network performance helps identify and resolve issues promptly, maintaining optimal operation and security. To help simplify the network monitoring process:

• Use monitoring tools: Implement network monitoring tools such as Meter’s patented dashboard to view your network in real time.
• Set alerts: Configure alerts for critical events or threshold breaches to address potential issues before they escalate.
• Analyze traffic patterns: Regularly review traffic patterns to detect anomalies and optimize network traffic flow.

Regular updates and maintenance prevent potential problems and extend the network’s lifespan. For upkeep, perform the following:

• Schedule maintenance windows: Plan regular maintenance windows to update software, firmware, and security patches.
• Hardware audits: Conduct periodic hardware audits to identify and replace aging or failing components.
• Vulnerability assessments: Perform regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate security risks.

Educating employees on network use and security best practices reduces the risk of human error, which is a common cause of security breaches. Techniques to educate employees include:

• Conduct training sessions: Organize regular training sessions to educate employees on network policies, security protocols, and best practices.
• Provide resources: Offer easily accessible resources, such as guides and tutorials, for employees to reference.
• Simulate phishing attacks: Conduct simulated phishing attacks to raise awareness and train employees to recognize and avoid phishing attempts.

Plan for future growth by implementing scalable network designs. The following allows for easy expansion as the organization grows:

• Modular design: Use a modular network design to facilitate incremental growth and upgrades without disrupting existing infrastructure.
• Capacity planning: Regularly review network capacity and plan for future requirements based on projected growth.
• High availability: Design the network with redundancy and failover mechanisms to maintain performance during peak loads or component failures.

Next steps: Solve all your enterprise network needs with Meter

Enterprise networking can be complex, but Meter simplifies it by offering comprehensive solutions that free up network engineers to focus on more important business initiatives.

Meter's services are designed to enhance your enterprise network with advanced features and robust support.

Features offered by Meter:

• Integrated hardware and software: Meter provides a unified solution that includes custom-designed hardware and software, eliminating the need to manage multiple vendors and guaranteeing compatibility across all components.
• End-to-end support: From initial installation to ongoing maintenance, Meter offers full lifecycle support for your enterprise network, allowing your IT team to concentrate on strategic initiatives rather than routine network management.
• Flexibility: Meter's network design solutions are built to adapt to your business's changing needs. Whether you're integrating new technologies or accommodating remote work, Meter’s flexible infrastructure can support these adjustments.
• Advanced security: With built-in security features such as encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, Meter ensures that your enterprise network is protected against evolving cyber threats.
• Network monitoring and management: Meter provides real-time network monitoring and management tools via a patented Meter Dashboard, giving you deep visibility into network performance and enabling proactive issue resolution.

Schedule a demo with Meter today to see how we can build you an enterprise network from the ground up.