WLANs are part of Cisco’s Architecture for Voice, Video, and Integrated Data (AVVID). An overview of AVVID is shown in Figure . As the primary enterprise-wide, standards-based integrated network architecture in the industry, AVVID provides the roadmap for combining business and technology strategies into one cohesive model.

The intelligent network infrastructure of AVVID includes a variety of clients, network platforms, and network services, as Figure shows. Another important component is service control, which enables the technologies to help provide the solutions. Figure lists Cisco optimized service controls.

Combining the network infrastructure and services with current and emerging applications, AVVID accelerates the integration of technology strategy with business vision. Cisco AVVID is the enabler of Internet business solutions for customers through the network infrastructure and key partnerships with developers and integrators.

A network architecture is a roadmap and guide for ongoing network planning, design, and implementation. It provides a coherent framework that unifies disparate solutions onto a single foundation. Cisco AVVID provides the following:

• Speed - Speed in deployment of applications is facilitated by totally integrated and tested products. Speed, in terms of bandwidth, is available in scalable increments, from modest to Gigabit transmission rates.
• Reliability - Network uptime is increase by fully integrated and tested hardware and software, as well as by fault-tolerant features.
• Interoperability - Standards-based APIs allow open-integration with third party developers, providing customers with choice and flexibility. Interoperatbility testing guarantees that multiple solutions work together.
• Pace of change - Customers have the ability to adapt quickly, in a competitive and changing business environment. This is because new technologies are continually being integrated into the end-to-end AVVID solution.
• Cost reduction - Resource and time requirements are minimized, which helps reduce implementation costs.
• Mobility - Rewiring and reconfiguration are minimized. Users are always connected and can roam freely, thereby increasing their productivity levels.

Once a network architecture has been developed, an organization will have a framework in place. The framework will allow for more informed decision making, including especially appropriate investments in network technologies, products, and services. A sample AVVID topology, including WLAN access, is shown in Figure .

Lab Activity Lab Exercise: Topology Design (Cisco Network Designer) In this lab, the student will design three different network topologies with the Cisco Network Design (CND) software: Ad hoc network Basic Service Set Network Extended Service Set Network     Interactive Activity Interactive Activity: Vocabulary Check This activity will help students to review some of the terms introduced in Module 4.      Interactive Activity Interactive Activity: Cisco Integrated Solution This activity demonstrates how Cisco delivers wired and wireless end-to-end solutions for voice, video and data.