Accelerate your business with a highly secure network that is faster, more flexible, easier to deploy, and always on. A network connects computers, mobile phones, peripherals, and even IoT devices. Switches, routers, and wireless access points are the essential networking basics. Through them, devices connected to your network can communicate with one another and with other networks, like the Internet.
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Switches
Switches are the foundation of most business networks. A switch acts as a controller, connecting computers, printers, and servers to a network in a building or a campus.
Switches allow devices on your network to communicate with each other, as well as with other networks, creating a network of shared resources. Through information sharing and resource allocation, switches save money and increase productivity.
There are two basic types of switches to choose from as part of your networking basics: managed and unmanaged.
- An unmanaged switch works out of the box but can’t be configured. Home-networking equipment typically offers unmanaged switches.
- A managed switch can be configured. You can monitor and adjust a managed switch locally or remotely, giving you greater control over network traffic and access.
Routers
Routers connect multiple networks together. They also connect computers on those networks to the Internet. Routers enable all networked computers to share a single Internet connection, which saves money. A router acts a dispatcher. It analyzes data being sent across a network, chooses the best route for data to travel, and sends it on its way. Routers connect your business to the world, protect information from security threats, and can even decide which computers receive priority over others. Beyond those basic networking functions, routers come with additional features to make networking easier or more secure. Depending on your needs, for example, you can choose a router with a firewall, a virtual private network (VPN), or an Internet Protocol (IP) communications system.
To create your wireless network, you can choose between four types of deployment. Each deployment has attributes that will work better for different solutions.
Cisco Mobility Express
Mobility Express is a simple, high-performance wireless solution for small or medium-sized organizations. It has the full complement of advanced Cisco features, which are preconfigured with Cisco best practices. The defaults allow for a quick and effortless Wi-Fi deployment that can be operational in minutes. It’s perfect for small businesses’ basic networking.
Centralised deployment
The most common type of wireless network system, centralised deployments are traditionally used in campuses where buildings and networks are in close proximity. This deployment consolidates the wireless network, which makes upgrades easier and facilitates advanced wireless functionality. Controllers are based on-premises and are installed in a centralised location.