webpointmorpheus Network Info
Network Operation and Optimization

     Overview      Server Function      Dependability      Speed      Security      Connection      Noise

©2005 - material compiled by Bob Carnaghi, www.webpointmorpheus.com

Overview     Top of Page

The test of a smoothly functioning network system could, in one way, be based upon the number and types of calls received in the tech support department. How often do users call to complain? Do they repeatedly call to complain about the same issues? Are issues resolved quickly and effectively? The intent of this document is to outline not so much how to run a tech support hot line, but to introduce a few ideas that will create a system that will run 'like a well-oiled machine.'

If you have a difficult time with the acronymn drenched terms used in this document, check out the Network Definitions Page.

Server Functionality     Top of Page

A networked computer environment of modest size, 10 or more computers, will warrant the use of a NOS that exceeds the limitations of the peer-to-peer topology. When this approach is implemented, a dedicated server is warranted. As the demands of the network increase, the demands on the server(s) will increase. A server's role can be categorized as listed below:

1. Dependability
2. Speed
3. Data Security
4. Network Connection

Dependability     Top of Page

The actual physical server on a moderate or large size network demands careful scrutiny when implemented. The following questions will help to determine the choice of the server itself:

• What is the intent of the server? Is the server to be a file server? ...print server? ...web server?
• What are the expected demands of data traffic? ...the bandwidth to be used? ...what is the instantaneous peak usage expected to be?
• How much data is to be stored on the server? ...how big do the actual hard drive(s) need to be?
• What services are to be provided by the server? ...DNS? ...VPN? ...backups? ...additional security?

Depending upon the answers to the above questions, the physical and software needs of the server can begin to be addressed.

• Does the server operate consistently?
• Can the server adequately handle the loads placed upon it at times of peak usage?

   Server Considerations     Top of Page

Below is a list of server items that are worth considering for server stability and dependability.

1. Surge/Spike Suppressor
2. UPS
3. Backup Power
4. SCSI Drives
5. Additional cooling fans in the tower
6. Tape Backup with capability to store backups offsite.
7. Temperature and humidity controlled server room
8. Additional items per site necessity

   Virus     Top of Page

Below is an overview of virus types. Each of these vermin works differently, and can cause havoc from its own perspective.

1. Boot Sector - attaches itself to or rewrites the boot sector of the hard drive, thus rendering the drive unbootable.
2. Executable - attaches itself to .exe files, and becomes activated when the program is initiated.
3. Macro - a series of instructions that are composed into a destructive sequence of events. These often come within a Word, Excel, or other seemingly harmless document.
4. Trojan - a program that is disguised as something harmless. These often have time-activated destruction capabilities that aren't immediately apparent.
5. Worm - a program or routine that is capable of replicating itself. These often come in the guise of email attachments, and when activated send copies of itself to all the entries in an address book. The intent of this type of attack is to congest the network, bringing it to a standstill.
6. Spyware - the latest in the movement of the dark side of computing. These programs stealthily plant themselves on one's hard drive without the operator's awareness. Their intent is to permit access at a later time by a hacker, or to send sensitive information to another person.

Speed     Top of Page

The need for speed continues to press computer manufacturers and technicians constantly. There are many approaches to increasing speed: multiple processors, additional memory, faster/bigger hard drives with increased read/write capability, wider bus width, larger cache size, etc. Often there can be a significant gain by optimizing the drives on a regular basis. This is sometimes difficult during peak use time because of the constant write process to disk. Also, if a drive is large and is heavily fragmented, the time to defrag may exceed the off hours available to perform the task. A gain in system speed can be realized by improving the system bus to SCSI. The interoperation of computers, servers, network hardware (hub, router, etc.) and the cabling make for a complex maze to troubleshoot when there is a general complaint about the system being slow. Identifying the weak link in the process is the most important element to solving this dilemma.

Data Security     Top of Page

The importance of data backups doesn't make a full impression until they aren't available. Essentially, data and resources are what the entire system is about. Systems fail, and when that happens, backups are how it all comes back together. There are several types of backups which perform different backup functions. Backup schemes are so important that they can't be understated. More than one business has completely disintegrated in the face of inadequate backups. There are methods to guarantee fault-tolerant data as backups become necessary: RAID systems are capable of varying types of data backup with parity (data verification.)

Network Connection     Top of Page

Connecting a node to the network is typically done through a NIC (Network Interface Card) or a modem. There is a growing popularity of Wireless Networks, which have a constantly increasing access distance and transfer rate. Troubleshooting network connections can call upon the patience and systematic thought process of the most seasoned professional. Configuration of NICs & modems is typically done through Plug and Play, and occasionally calls for a knowledge of system resources to assign IRQ, IO location, memory address, and perhaps DMA. Interconnectivity will require an IP address, a subnet mask, default gateway, and other configuration for the larger network. The webpointmorpheus computer hardware technical documents has more on these items.

Noise     Top of Page

Noise is an undesirable side-effect of circumstances that impose upon a network or system. Noise is a nuisance. Noise can be categorized into one (or a combination of) three sources:

1. Atmospheric Noise: lightning, solar sun-spots, other natural causes.
2. Impulse Noise: typically of a short duration, caused by motors, engines, ignition, etc.
3. Frequency Noise: AC current hum, system clock, carrier frequency bleed-over, etc.

Additionally, crosstalk can be introduced when the magnetic fields of carriers overlap in such a manner that the data being transmitted bleeds from one to the other. Crosstalk can often be eliminated by using shielded cables. The key to eliminating noise nuisance is to first identify the type, then consider the posible causes of the source of that type of noise.