|  |  | Overview

Today's network administrators must manage complex wide-area networks (WANs) in order to support the growing number of software applications that are built around Internet Protocol (IP) and the Web. These WANs place a great demand on network resources, and require high-performance networking technologies. WANs are complex environments that incorporate multiple media, multiple protocols, and inter-connection to other networks, such as the Internet. Growth and manageability of these network environments are achieved by the often complex interaction of protocols and features. Despite improvements in equipment performance and media capabilities, WAN design is becoming more difficult. Carefully designing WANs can reduce problems associated with a growing networking environment. To design reliable, scalable WANs, network designers must keep in mind that each WAN has specific design requirements. This chapter provides an overview of the methodologies utilized to design WANs.
| Threaded Case Study
Washington Project: WAN Design

In this chapter, you will learn about WAN design processes that will enable you to implement WAN services requirements into the Washington School District network design. The district WAN should connect all school and administrative offices with the district office for the purpose of delivering data.