We discussed the basics of networking in this chapter, delving deep into the TCP and IP protocols, as these are fundamental protocols that will enable all services in a modern enterprise.
We also looked at the network lifecycle approach and the various stages of the network as it is built, with stress upon the need for the multiple activities required for building a network.
We will apply these concepts in the next chapters to discuss the various parts of an IT network and the design considerations for each of these parts of the network. This will cover the campus local area network, the wireless networks, the wide area networks, and data center. We will discuss the various characteristics of the network as a whole in Chapter 2, Networks for Digital Enterprises and Chapter 3, Components of the Enterprise Network and delve deep into the different domains in the later chapters.