How is the ITH network structured?

Fast, stable and secure Internet access is not a luxury, but a standard. We understand perfectly well that a solid IT infrastructure is the foundation of any company’s operations, so we have designed solutions to ensure the highest quality of Internet services and data transmission. The ITH network – based on Spine & Leaf architecture and built without any so-called technology debt – is fully secure and scalable. Are you interested in this topic? Learn more about high-performance, scalable network topology.

Spine & Leaf network architecture – what does it mean?

The ITH network is based on the highly scalable Spine & Leaf architecture, which is considered one of the most advanced network solutions in the world of telecom operators. In a nutshell, it’s a model in which each access device (leaf) connects directly to backbone devices (spine). Such an arrangement ensures symmetrical connections, low latency and maximum throughput, without the bottlenecks inherent in traditional hierarchical structures.

In practice, this means that all services provided to ITH customers start at the edge routers and end at the subscriber device. All network traffic is carried out using OSI model Layer 3 (L3) protocols, i.e. those that support routing and are independent of the physical connections between devices.

Automation and simplicity of configuration

One of the biggest advantages of the architecture used is the ease of management and automation of processes. In an ITH network, services are configured at only two points – at the edge router and the end device at the customer’s site. The rest of the infrastructure works like an intelligent “network cloud” in which each device configures itself automatically. Such a solution carries a number of benefits for the operator’s network technical team and the customer itself (greater reliability and shorter service deployment time).

Redundancy and security of the operator’s network

The use of the Spine & Leaf architecture makes it possible to achieve full redundancy, which means that even in the event of a failure of one of the devices, traffic can be instantly rerouted via another route, with no noticeable interruption to the service.

By operating solely at Layer 3, the ITH network avoids typical Layer 2 problems, namely:

• network loops (looping),

• broadcast storms,

• MAC addressing-related errors.

All this makes the network secure, stable and scalable, even with a very large number of end devices.

Service flexibility and no downtime

From the point of view of the network management team (NOC – Network Operations Center), such a designed infrastructure is a real game changer. It makes it possible:

• Secure software updates for network devices,

• real-time equipment replacement,

• Making configuration changes without affecting customers’ work.

As a result, maximum network performance can be maintained without assuming technical interruptions or unexpected failures.

Modern operator’s network without technology debt

WTH (the ITH network operator) began building its infrastructure in 2020 with more than a decade of experience in designing and managing networks for other operators. This experience avoided the so-called “technology debt,” a situation in which the infrastructure develops haphazardly, without a long-term plan, and each new element has to “patch up” previous mistakes.

How is the ITH operator’s network built? The network was planned from the very beginning as a coherent, modular and scalable structure, ready for future technological challenges, so its growth is not accidental. Everything is happening according to a set schedule, logic and strategy.

What does this mean for the customer?

• stable connection and high availability of services,

• No interruption of Internet service, even with technical work,

• Data security and protection against common network threats,

• Rapid deployment of services and configuration flexibility.

ITH network is a modern telecommunications environment designed to meet the actual needs of users. If you are interested in our offer and would like to learn more about our offer, you are welcome to contact us.

FAQ: frequently asked questions and answers

What is a computer network?

A computer network is a group of computers and network devices (e.g. printers, servers, storage) that are connected to exchange data and share resources. It enables high-speed file transfer, use of shared printers, and remote operation of programs and devices.

What does a typical computer network consist of?

The basic active devices of an operator network are: servers, network cards, network software, routers, modems, switches, hubs and access points

What transmission media are used in networks?

Data transmission uses: radio waves (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), copper wires (Gigabit Ethernet) and fiber optics.

What is a single optical fiber and what is it used for?

A single optical fiber is a very thin cable made of glass or plastic that transmits data in the form of light pulses. They are used in various places, such as MAN and WAN networks, as well as in modern corporate installations.

How do we divide computer networks based on their size?

The networks are divided into:

• PAN (Personal Area Network) – a personal, very small network (such as Bluetooth),

• LAN (Local Area Network) – a local area network in a home or office,

• CAN (Campus Area Network) – several buildings (e.g., college campuses),

• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) – urban computer network,

• WAN (Wide Area Network) – a WAN is a network with the widest reach, such as the Internet.

How many devices can use the network at any given time?

It depends on the type of network, its bandwidth and the active devices used. In a home LAN, usually a dozen devices can operate simultaneously at any given time without a problem. In the case of larger corporate networks – even hundreds.

What are points of contact in a computer network and why are they important?

Interconnection points in a computer network are places where various network devices connect to each other or to end devices. They include physical interfaces (Ethernet ports, fiber optic connectors) and logical connections (e.g. IP addresses, communication protocols). They enable data flow and communication on the network.