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Network Integration

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I am a new IT student in a networking program. The books are great, but I want more info.
What would be the best way to integrate two different networks in seperate locations? No I don’t have equipment or configuration info. Would TCP/IP be the best protocol to accomplish this integration?
Thanks Much
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Network Integration

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Without having info like operating systems and equipment involved, there is no one single totally correct answer here.

Yes, TCP/IP is pretty much universal.

But if both networks are using Novell, IPX/SPX might be a better protocol to use depending on the versions of Netware being used.

If both networks are Macintosh-based, Appletalk might be the more appropriate protocol depending on the MacOS versions being used.

If the networks are dissimilar, TCP/IP is probably best.

The bottom line is that you need to choose a protocol that both networks will understand.

Network Integration

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It would depend? What are the needs at each location? How far apart are the locations? How will you connect the networks? How much of a connection between the two networks are you willing to pay?

If the networks are in different buildings, you will need to pay the phone company for a connection to both sites. You could use isdn, frame relay, or a T1. Also, a dialup connection is a possibility, using ppp for the connection protocol. You could run fiber optics between the buildings, though the cost is high. Also, you could go with wireless between the buildings, again cost is a factor to consider. If the locations are in the same building, then you are limited to about 300′ between each network with twisted pair cabling.

Tcp/ip would be the recommended protocol to use, especially if INet access is desired. You would need it anyway, so might as well use it as the default. I believe that Novell 5 and up support tcp/ip, also, most macs do as well. There really is no reason not to use tcp/ip only, unless you have a specific application that requires something else.

You could use an old pentium PC with Linux installed as a router between the two networks. Most likely one at each site will be needed. It is a fairly straight forward operation. Of course it could become more difficult, depending on the connection between the two networks.

There is a lot of information on the web that will help. You will just have to glean thru it to find the useful information.

Hope this helps you.

G’Day,

Network Integration

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This is helpful thanks…haven’t rated yet so i can get more info….

Network Integration

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