If you are an independent branch of a larger organization, be consistent with umbrella group's practices and standards. Even if you are expected to maintain a separate network today, you may need to be part of its wide-area network in the future. One of the most challenging aspects of the small office network involves setting up links to external networks. Not only are these the most technically complex tasks of implementing a network, but they also carry significant costs. Once you have assessed the new network's functional requirements and relative scale, you are ready to begin the design work.
Network design involves several layers.
Options include Ethernet, ATM or token ring. To make a decision, you will need to scrutinize the relative bandwidth the network must support. The greater your need to support multimedia applications such as streaming audio or video, the more you will need a pricier high-bandwidth solution. The physical network. This includes network cabling, faceplates, and other issues of basic infrastructure.