This post deals with two concepts that fit into one another or are parts of one another as the Cisco Service-Orientated Network Architecture (SONA) framework outlines the “how-to” for enterprises to evolve their Information Technology (IT) infrastructures into Intelligent Integrated Networks (IIN). The follow on to this post is the enterprise-wide architecture that explains the model a bit clearer.
Overview
The Cisco IIN Vision is one of network integration, intelligence and participation; while SONA is the three layered approach to achieving IIN namely the network services, interactive services and application layers respectively.
IIN Explained
Converged Networking requires a more integrated IT infrastructure (servers, data storage, workstations, etc) and networking infrastructure (switches, routers, etc). This is because of the needs and requirements of IP Protocol based applications that use voice, video and data network information in one interface (MS Dynamcs Applications could be an example iow CRM).
A standards based modular converged network provides for evolutionary (change over time) functionality addition (NAC, Security, voice, video) and IP-based applications (CRM, ERP, Web Applications, Software on Demand) capability. This by extension allows increased productivity by giving more information at once to employees, Information on demand when needed where needed, and reducing cost (long run allowing company to lower OPEX costs of IT; probably bring down IT IS costs and lowering of CAPEX expenditure year-on-year just for maintaining and upgrading) by allowing incremental changes to infrastructure (compared to wholesale replacements). I can go into skill sets, training expenses on new kit, learning curves, downtimes on installations etc.
By leveraging and applying built in component intelligence (ISR, Self Defending Network, etc) within the network components and extending those benefits end-to-end (from the core to the edge) intelligence and paid for features are spread accross the entire network.
With the participation of the network in service delivery; the added intelligence in network components mean active management, monitoring, and optimization by the network in service and application delivery end-to-end. The results is IT resources being pooled and shared or virtualized to changes in the network with the abliity to adapt to business needs and requirements. Through the use of Application-Orientated Networking (AON) the network can optimize performance and efficient delivery of networked application to end-user.
CISCO SONA FRAMEWORK LAYERS*
The path or “how-to” for IIN is SONA which explains how integrated systems can both allow for a dynamic, flexible architecture, and provide for operational efficiencies through standardization and virtualization.
This is very broad stroke overview and not in detail; for a more detailed explanation as to the how this all works see the ECNM or Enterprise Wide Architecture.
The Network Infrastructure Layer is where all IT resources (servers, storage, and clients) are interconnected (campus, branch, data centre, WAN, MAN, teleworker) across the converged network foundation. The objective of this layer is to enable anywhere and anytime connectivity.
The Interactive Services Layer enables efficient allocation of resources to applications and business processes that work together to create functionality that can be used by multiple applications and is delivered through the network infrastructure.
The Application layer includes applications (commercial off-the-shelf and homegrown software) and collaboration applications. This layer can also use network services such as presence and location to build innovative solutions that enhance user experience. The objective is to meet business requirements and achieve efficiencies by leveraging the interactive services layer.
Resources:
Aragoen Celtdra over at Baby, You can Route my World! has a nice explanation on this for the BSCI course
Notes and Notices:
This is a part of my personal BCMSN notes and research to assist myself in learning and understanding the concepts and theory for the BCMSN exam. I learn by making notes reading and writing things down and wish to file them where I can’t lose them. These notes are not to be seen, judged or mistaken for replacements to Cisco recognized and authorized training which I personally support and attend and suggest you undertake if you are going for the BCMSN Certification.
*CISCO SONA FRAMEWORK LAYERS: Graphic taken from SONA Fact Sheet on the Cisco Website, Copyright Cisco Systems, Inc