Computer Networking Equipment?

I am trying to compile a list of computer networking equipment. I'm hardly familiar with the concepts of computer networking.. but I need a, hopefully, exhaustive list of equipment. So far I've got: Servers, firewalls, routers, switches, hubs, modems, [throw in some suggestions here!]. It's supposed to be a pretty large network not a home type thing. Reason: I need to find parts that meet requirements for a network and I can't start without knowing what the parts are! haha..

Computer Networking Equipment?
If you have an unlimited budget and are being told to buy the hardware then we'll design around it - I want to be an SE for a vendor around you. Get a current topology of what is in place. If this is unavailable you are really going to be taking a swag. Try to get the high level stuff first, then drill into the lower layer system related stuff so you understand what they are migrating from and the applications (and importance) they are running (voice, video, SAP, SQL, etc). Then build a requirements list such as number of sites, number of servers, types of servers, remote access to corporate resources both from a user stand point and small office standpoint. Get an understanding of current bandwidth usage and future technology uses that may add to it. Then build on security, how is it secured today, how can it be better secured tomorrow (also, how and why certain networks or subnets exist). Maybe then you can come up with a very rough hardware list - include growth potential for 5 years maybe 15-20%. Unless you have a very small network or limited requirements no one can really give you a "great" idea of what you need in two or three paragraphs, only a good place to start and considerations. Good luck.
Reply:Im not sure what type of network you want to build or how big, or how many users or if you will need VPN access, Wireless capabilities, Network attached storage, email, what type of security you require, what servers. cameras or printers you want to run.





I dont know why you would be trying to design a network if you have no idea what to do, this is not a plug and play busines.





If all you want is a list of networking equipment that can be used why not just goto a networking manufactures site like http://www.dlink.com
Reply:As a network engineer...





I disagree with your assertion.





I would first figure out WHAT you want to do... then find the hardware and software you needed to accomplish it.





That's sorta like going to HOME DEPOT and visiting their TOOL DEPARTMENT... and getting a list of every tool.





WHY? If all you need is a SCREWDRIVER and a WRENCH?





FIRST... create the TASK - then figure out WHAT you need to do it. Why MUDDY the waters with irrelevant facts?