Here is what you learned about standards and compliance:
IEEE standards: (Ethernet), (WiFi), Q (VLANs) enable multi-vendor interoperability.
IETF/RFCs: Internet protocols standardized through RFCs. BCPs provide operational guidance.
Industry compliance: PCI-DSS for payments, HIPAA for healthcare, SOC for services.
Security frameworks: NIST CSF and - for federal guidance. ISO internationally.
Cabling: TIA- defines copper and fiber requirements.
Audit readiness: Collect evidence continuously. Automate where possible.