Design Reference

Chapter 5: Network design fundamentals
To efficiently and cost-effectively use Avaya Virtual Services Platform 4000 Series, you must
properly design your network, which includes the following considerations:
• Reliability and availability
• Platform redundancy
• Desired level of redundancy
A robust network depends on the interaction between system hardware and software. System
software can be divided into different functions as shown in the following figure.
Figure 1: Hardware and software interaction
A driver is the lowest level of software that actually performs a function. Drivers reside on a single
module and do not interact with other modules or external devices. Drivers are very stable.
Statically configured MultiLink Trunking (MLT) is a prime example of local software because it
interacts with several modules within in the same device. No external interaction is needed, so you
can easily test the function.
Interacting software is the most complex level of software because it depends on interaction with
external devices. The Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) protocol is a good example of this software
level. Interaction can occur between devices of the same type or with devices of other vendors than
run a completely different implementation.
16 Network Design Reference for Avaya VSP 4000 Series December 2014
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