Network Design and Architecture

RouterOS General
1

Hello everyone,

I am currently focusing on developing strong expertise in network design and large-scale architecture, with a particular interest in Service Provider (ISP) and mobile network architectures rather than traditional enterprise or intranet-style networks.

I would highly appreciate recommendations from experienced professionals on the following topics:

1. Books & References
– Authoritative books on network design and architecture
– ISP / Service Provider backbone design
– Mobile network architectures (4G/5G core, transport, backhaul)
– Design trade-offs, scalability, resiliency, and real-world considerations

2. Courses & Learning Material
– High-quality online courses (O’Reilly, vendor-neutral, or vendor-specific)
– Conference talks, recorded trainings, or deep-dive technical sessions
– Any material focused on architecture thinking rather than configuration only

3. Large-Scale ISP / Telco Topologies
– Where can realistic ISP or mobile network topologies be found or studied?
– Reference architectures, whitepapers, RFCs, or conference presentations
– How do professionals study and learn architectures when real production diagrams are not publicly available?

4. Practical Skill Development
– How would you recommend practicing ISP-scale design skills in labs or simulations?
– Suggested approaches for modeling large networks (core, aggregation, edge, mobile backhaul, peering, etc.)
– How to move from protocol knowledge to true architecture-level thinking

My goal is to build a strong end-to-end understanding of large-scale ISP and mobile network architectures, including design principles, failure scenarios, and scalability challenges.

Any guidance, references, or personal experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance for your time and insights.

2
  1. Bachelor’s Degrees (4-Year Degrees)
  • Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) in Network Technology: This is a comprehensive degree focusing on network design, implementation, and management, often incorporating industry certifications like CCNA and CCNP.
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering: Focuses on the integration of hardware and software, covering computer architecture, network systems, and telecommunications.
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Networking Concentration): Focuses on algorithms, software design, and how network systems are structured.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology/Systems: Provides a broader, industry-focused approach to managing enterprise network infrastructure.
  1. Specialized College Diplomas & Applied Degrees (2–3 Years)

These are highly practical and often bridge to university degrees.

  • Network Engineering Technology (Advanced Diploma): These programs (e.g., Sheridan College) offer in-depth training in network communications, security, and infrastructure.
  • Network and Security Architecture (Diploma/Co-op): Focuses specifically on high-level design and protecting network systems (e.g., Fanshawe College).
  • Computer Systems Technology – Network Engineering: Combines software development with network infrastructure management.
1 Like
3

Anav, you forgot to add:

  • a few years of SOHO networking tech support
  • a few years of small scale networking field experience
  • a few years of enterprise/ISP scale networking field experience
1 Like
4

hahah my friend, I am doing all of the above on my home network, with no training and no experience, but dont ask me to be responsible for any real work, my familys angst is enough stress :slight_smile: ( minus the enterprise stuff of course).

1 Like