A Simple Framework for IP
Network Design
Jeff Loughridge
Principal Consultant
Brooks Consulting LLC

Industry Trends
• Per-Mb prices in perpetual downfall
• Utilization constantly increasing
• New services emerging

The two fundamental components
of IP networks are
routers and fiber.

An IP network core’s primary function
is to move bits as inexpensively as
possible.

The Ideal All-IP Environment
• Maintains end-to-end principle
• Intelligence in the end points; limited state
maintained in the core
• Clear demarcation between IP network
performance/capabilities and applications
that rely on network for bit carriage
• Limited number of devices in the data
delivery path

Business Requirements for IP
Networks
• Simple to add new services
• Generate new revenue without major
overhauls to processes and systems
• Easily adaptable to technology change
• Full transparency – costs, metrics,
accountability
• Seamless access to the network

Simplicity and Cash Flow
• When a new device or system is added to
the infrastructure, is value added
commensurate with the investment?
• What is the effect on the cost structure?
• Minimizing cost-per-bit

Conclusion
• Design simple IP networks- you and your
customers will mutually benefit
• Ask questions –
– Why are we adding this complexity to the
network?
– Are we pouring money into network elements
not designed for IP?
– What is the effect on the cost per bit

Jeff Loughridge
Principal Consultant
jeffl@brooksconsulting-llc.com
http://brooksconsulting-llc.com
Office: 703-229-0098