Designing a reliable and functional network infrastructure for the corporate environment depends heavily upon obtaining the right tools for the job. LSI and other online companies provide cutting edge processors and networking hardware and software designed to keep companies connected both inside their own offices and to their customers and vendors outside the corporate environment.
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The Workhorses of Network Infrastructure
The Role of the Network Processor
Within a wired or wireless corporate network environment, processors within that network provide routing instructions and bandwidth management for packets travelling within the corporate network and data being sent outside the confines of the corporate network and into the outside world. Network processors provide a way to track, tag and deliver information to intended recipients and to provide access for corporate employees to the resources and data available for use within the company and throughout the world via the Internet.
Advances in Network Processing Devices
Processing speed and methodology is constantly evolving and improving. The newest advances in network processing devices are typically incorporated into routers, network monitors and firewall devices almost immediately in order to take advantage of the increased speed and reliability provided by these upgraded network hardware devices.
Companies can choose from among a number of different types of corporate networks, each with its own particular strengths and advantages, such as the following:
Parallel Processors
Parallel processing networks typically provide more stability for highly time-dependent or mission-critical applications. Because multiple processors are used in this method, back-up capability is usually already built into the system. Advanced distributed processing methods allow multiple computers to be assigned to the same tasks, thus maximizing the effectiveness of the networking system.
Processors with Pipeline Technology
Pipeline network architecture requires that each network processor be assigned to a particular task within the network and that all processors be linked serially in order to provide a cohesive and continuous flow of information throughout the network. Common tasks assigned to these processors include packet discrimination and forwarding, encryption, TCP processing, monitoring and quality control and access and security controls.
Because each processor is responsible for one or more of these tasks, the system is typically more modular and more easily upgradable than parallel processing network architectures.
Multicore Processors
One of the newest types of network processor, the multicore processor, includes two or more processors working in concert to provide access to data and connect computing resources within the company to each other and to online resources located outside the company’s network.
Creating network solutions and providing the highest possible level of integration, speed and reliability for corporate customers, companies like LSI can allow them to enjoy outstanding network support and service that can be expanded and upgraded as the customer’s needs grow and change.