A Network Proposal For A Manufacturing Company

A Network Proposal Has To Be Developed For A Manufacturing Company Th

A network proposal has to be developed for a manufacturing company. The design is an L-Shaped building approximately 1500 square feet. They will have 1 reception and 5 offices. Each office employee has a personal printer. They are not using a network to communicate.

Currently: President's Office (4), Accounting (3), and Business and HRM (2)

Future Plans: HR (6), Accounting (5), and Break room (2)

They are moving to a larger building 3500 square feet. They are expanding and will add 15 more offices. They will add network printers and wireless network for employees and guest. They will need to share files between departments. Design a network for this company to incorporate a network server, printer, and wireless network. Provide a security solution for them. What type of topology? What type of cabling will need to be used? You will need to determine cabling, hardware, and software needs. Include a timeline and cost analysis for the executives.

Paper For Above instruction

Designing a comprehensive network infrastructure for a manufacturing company's expansion requires meticulous planning, considering current needs and future growth. The company's transition from a small-scale setup to a larger facility with increased personnel and technological requirements necessitates a scalable, secure, and efficient network design. This paper presents a detailed proposal encompassing network topology, cabling, hardware, software, security measures, implementation timeline, and cost analysis to support the company's operational growth.

Network Topology

The optimal topology for this manufacturing company's expanding infrastructure is a hybrid model combining star and hierarchical structures. A star topology, with a central network switch or router, ensures that each device connects directly to the core equipment, facilitating easy troubleshooting and management. Given the need for scalability, a hierarchical topology allows the integration of primary and secondary switches distributed across the facility, supporting future expansion seamlessly. This approach minimizes network congestion and enhances performance, especially with increased device connectivity and data sharing between departments.

Cabling Infrastructure

High-quality cabling is essential for reliable network performance. Category 6 (Cat6) Ethernet cables are recommended for their ability to support gigabit speeds over distances up to 100 meters, making them ideal for the current and future network demands. For backbone connections between switches or to the server room, fiber optic cables can be employed to ensure high bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference, particularly critical in a manufacturing environment where electrical noise may be present. Proper cable management, including structured wiring panels and conduits, should be implemented to maintain organization and facilitate future upgrades.

Hardware Requirements

The hardware setup will involve several key components:

  • Network Switches: Managed Layer 2/3 switches capable of supporting VLANs, Quality of Service (QoS), and security features to segment traffic effectively and prioritize mission-critical data.
  • Wireless Access Points (APs): Dual-band AC or AX access points to provide Wi-Fi coverage throughout the facility, supporting both employee devices and guest connectivity with robust security protocols.
  • Network Server: A dedicated file server with ample storage and backup solutions to facilitate file sharing, data management, and centralized control.
  • Printers: Network-enabled printers in strategic locations, including shared printers in departments and the reception area.
  • Routers and Firewall: Enterprise-grade routers with integrated firewalls to manage internet access, VPN capabilities, and perimeter security.

Software Solutions

Network management and security software are vital for maintaining operational integrity. Network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG) will track performance and detect anomalies. Antivirus and endpoint security solutions should be installed on all devices. A centralized management platform will enable control over user access, updates, and policy enforcement. Additionally, backup and disaster recovery software must be implemented to protect critical data.

Security Measures

Security considerations include establishing VLANs to segment sensitive data, implementing WPA3 security protocols for Wi-Fi, and deploying robust firewall rules to block unauthorized access. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for network login and VPN access will add layers of security. Regular vulnerability assessments and employee security training are recommended to minimize risks. Physical security measures, such as secured server rooms and controlled access points, should also be considered.

Implementation Timeline

The network deployment can be divided into phases over a six-month period:

  1. Phase 1 (Month 1-2): Site assessment, detailed planning, and procurement of hardware and software.
  2. Phase 2 (Month 3): Infrastructure installation, including cabling and hardware setup.
  3. Phase 3 (Month 4): Configuration of network devices, security protocols, and initial testing.
  4. Phase 4 (Month 5): Deployment of wireless access points and user device setup.
  5. Phase 5 (Month 6): Final testing, staff training, and network go-live.

Cost Analysis

The projected costs include hardware, software, installation, and ongoing maintenance:

  • Hardware: $50,000, covering switches, routers, access points, servers, and printers.
  • Software: $10,000 for network management, security, and backup solutions.
  • Installation and Cabling: $15,000, including labor and materials.
  • Training and Documentation: $5,000.
  • Contingency and Miscellaneous: $5,000.

Total estimated budget: approximately $85,000.

Conclusion

This comprehensive network proposal aligns with the company's current and future needs, emphasizing scalability, security, and performance. Implementing this plan will enable efficient communication, data sharing, and secure access across all departments, supporting the company's growth objectives. Regular review and updates will ensure that the network remains resilient and adaptable to technological advances and evolving business requirements.

References

  • Cisco Systems. (2022). Designing enterprise networks. Cisco Press.
  • Odom, W. (2019). CCNA 200-301 official cert guide. Cisco Press.
  • Stallings, W. (2021). Data and Computer Communications (11th ed.). Pearson.
  • Tanenbaum, A. S., & Wetherall, D. J. (2011). Computer Networks (5th ed.). Pearson.
  • Microsoft. (2022). Network security best practices. Microsoft Tech Community.
  • Cisco. (2023). Wireless LAN design fundamentals. Cisco White Paper.
  • IEEE Standards Association. (2020). Ethernet cabling standards. IEEE 802.3.
  • Hudson, R., & Anderson, P. (2020). Network security essentials. Elsevier.
  • Peterson, L. L., & Davie, B. S. (2019). Computer Networks: A Systems Approach. Morgan Kaufmann.
  • FitzGerald, J., & Dennis, A. (2021). Business Data Communications and Networking. Wiley.

Related Assignments