INTERFACE Montana
July 25th, 2023

  Presented by Pine Cove Consulting

In the world of networking, where devices and vendors multiply, IT specialists face the challenge of supporting and troubleshooting a wide array of equipment. To provide IT professionals with a comprehensive understanding of network complexities and best practices, this presentation will:

  • Highlight the impact of broadcast and multicast on network performance and strategies for efficient management
  • Discuss VLAN best practices, emphasizing the importance of segregating network traffic to enhance security and optimize performance
  • Explore the growing demand for and challenges associated with Power over Ethernet (PoE) and provide insights into effectively managing power requirements
  • Review the advantages and disadvantages of wireless connectivity compared to wired connections for specific devices and scenarios
  • Emphasize the importance of DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) in network management, as well as the role of ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) and MAC-address tables in troubleshooting network issues
  • Examine vendor remote access as a critical aspect of network administration, addressing the challenges and best practices associated with granting remote access to external vendors for troubleshooting and support
  • Explain LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol), CDP (Cisco Discovery Protocol), and LLDP-MED (Link Layer Discovery Protocol-Media Endpoint Discovery) policies, highlighting their significance in network discovery and device configuration
  • Explore the uses of SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), focusing on its role in network monitoring, performance management, and device configuration
  • Discuss Syslog, both local and remote, as a valuable tool for collecting and analyzing network event logs, aiding in troubleshooting and security investigations
  • Examine the placement of cameras and access control systems on the network, and the considerations for parallel networks, to ensure optimal security and performance
  • Acknowledge the challenges of implementing Voice over IP (VoIP) systems, highlighting the complexities, and emphasizing the importance of proper planning and configuration

By delving into these topics, this presentation equips IT professionals with valuable insights and practical knowledge for managing and troubleshooting complex networks. It aims to deepen their understanding of network intricacies, empowering them to make informed decisions and optimize network performance and security.