Virtual Networking Explained for Businesses

Virtual Networking Explained for Businesses

A virtual network is a system in which companies and individuals can connect with each other despite local differences. This allows remote access to the system, which makes troubleshooting and repairing issues much easier. In this presentation, we’ll discuss what virtual networking is and how it works for businesses. 

What is Virtual Networking? 

A virtual network is one in which all devices, machines, data centres, and servers are connected via software or wireless technology. This means that the reach of the network can be expanded as far as required for maximum efficiency. A virtual network does not follow the conventional rules of networking because it’s not wired. The devices on a virtual network interact via internet technology. This means that they have a much further reach than devices that are wired together. A virtual network is as limitless as the Internet. This is sometimes referred to as NaaS, or networking-as-a-service. 

How Does a Virtual Network Operate? 

A virtual network uses innovative technology to create an expanded wireless network. This network includes 

  • vSwitch Software: allows set up/configuration of virtual network 
  • Virtual Network Adapter: created gateway between networks 
  • Physical Network: hosts the virtual network 
  • Virtual machines/devices: instruments that are connected to the network, allowing a variety of functionality 
  • Servers: part of the infrastructure of the network host 
  • Firewalls/security: designed to monitor/stop security threats 3 Virtual Network Classes 

There are 3 classes of virtual networks: VPN, VLAN, and VXLAN. We will explain these in detail: 

VPN- Virtual Private Network 

A VPN uses the internet to link two or more existing networks. This allows users to login from anywhere to gain access to the networks that are linked. VPNs can also be used to mask internet use on public Wi-Fi, which ensures secure browsing. 

A VPN is established when data that is attached to packets defines the routing information that routes a user to a certain address. This created a tunnel of addresses, which encrypts the browsing history and makes it impossible to remotely access information. A VPN offers a small-scale virtual network via the internet for people to connect. 

VLAN- Virtual Local Area Network 

A VLAN utilises partitions to group certain devices on a LAN into domains that have resources/configurations applied to each one. 

A VLAN provides better management, security, and monitoring of the devices/servers within a certain domain. 

VXLAN- Virtual Extensible Local Area Network 

A VXLAN provides a tunnel to a level 2 network from your level 3 network infrastructure via switches at each endpoint. Another piece of tech included in this network is a base case (either physical or virtual) that is able to route data between endpoints. 

Benefits of Virtual Networking 

Virtual networking for business has a variety of benefits, including the following: ? 

  • Ability to work remotely 
  • Digital security 
  • Streamlined hardware 
  • Flexibility/scalability (doesn’t require much hardware, which means its easier to scale at a lower cost of ownership)
  •  Cost savings 
  • Increased productivity 

Virtual Networking & Contemporary Business 

In the ever-evolving world of digital business, virtual networking is very important because it addresses the need for remote accessibility, scalability, security, cost savings, and flexibility. Just like most services that can be outsourced by enterprise businesses, virtual networking offers benefits including ensuring that your valuable resources can be better spent and making sure that your tech meets your needs.

 As society continues to change to where more people are working remotely, virtual networking an NaaS services will become more critical for businesses to function. The next phase for digitally transforming businesses that have already become virtual enterprises could very well be virtual networking capabilities. For example, expanding your virtual network to encompass more than a simple VPN to increase productivity is one way that your business can evolve in the digital world. 

Conclusion 

Virtual networking allows individuals within a company to connect with each other no matter where they are in the world. This means that companies are able to be more productive and troubleshooting/repairing issues is much easier. 

Introducing: VIRTUAL NETWORKING SUCCESS – How To Become Better At Networking To Build Long-Lasting Connections and Grow Your Business or Career

Prosper Taruvinga

Article by Prosper Taruvinga

Published 24 Sep 2022