MANAGING THE NETWORK.

Network control involves all elements that make up the network: computers, operating systems, networking number programmable controllers, word processors, application software, interfaces to other networks, and the communications medium itself. The scope of network management depends on the size of the company, the number of networked components, and the company's management philosophies. Network management consists of identifying specific tasks and responsibilities of the network manager or operations department and choosing the techniques and processes that provide the best control over the network. While many people talk about the 'corporate network', in reality, most companies do not have a 'single', totally integrated network. Even when a corporate network exists, typically it is managed by a number of groups or individuals. Establishing boundaries, and what they include, is crucial to planning network management. It is important not only for daily operations and decision-making, but also for establishing lines of communication for detecting system faults quickly.