Assume You Are A Consultant To A Local Business That Has Ask

Assume You Are A Consultant To A Local Business That Has Asked You To

Assume you are a consultant to a local business that has asked you to propose an enterprise-wide solution that includes computers, peripherals, and networking solutions such that the entire system is secure. My Business Name is BLM Consulting, writing a proposal for Star Solutions. The business is a small publishing company with 50 employees. The office is located on one floor of a single-story dwelling with an open layout characterized by pillars holding up the roof and no interior walls, with each “office” being a glass cubicle.

This proposal will address several critical components: PC selection, peripherals, networking, and security. Each component will include detailed specifications, justifications, and cost considerations. The goal is to present a comprehensive, secure, and scalable technology solution tailored to the needs of the business, supporting its growth while maintaining robust security measures.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction/Overview

In the modern digital landscape, small enterprises such as Star Solutions— a burgeoning publishing company—must leverage advanced technological infrastructure to enhance productivity, ensure security, and support growth. As a trusted consultant, BLM Consulting aims to deliver a comprehensive governance and implementation plan that encompasses hardware, peripherals, networking, and security solutions. This proposal provides a detailed blueprint for selecting appropriate computers, peripherals, establishing a reliable network, and implementing security protocols to safeguard organizational data and operations.

PC Selection

The selection of personal computers is a fundamental step toward establishing a robust IT environment suitable for Star Solutions. Given the company's size and growth aspirations, the focus is on business-class machines that offer durability, performance, and scalability. For this purpose, HP EliteDesk 800 G6 and Dell Latitude 7000 series are recommended due to their reputation for reliability, security features, and ease of management (Eckstone, 2021).

The primary hardware specifications for each PC include an Intel Core i7 processor (11th generation) to ensure high performance, 16 GB of RAM for multitasking capabilities, and a 512 GB solid-state drive (SSD) that offers rapid data access and durability. For storage and backup needs, external 2TB USB 3.0 external hard drives are recommended for supplementary data management (Dell, 2022). The operating system selected for these machines is Windows 11 Pro, providing advanced security features, business management tools, and compatibility with organization-specific software (Microsoft, 2023).

The justification for these specifications includes enhanced processing speed to handle editing and publishing applications, increased memory for multi-application multitasking, and faster storage for efficient workflows. Windows 11 Pro adds features such as BitLocker encryption, virtual desktops, and group policy management, which are essential for maintaining organizational security (Kumar & Singh, 2022).

Networking Components and Rationale

Implementing a reliable, secure, and scalable network is vital. The recommended configuration includes a wired Local Area Network (LAN) complemented by a wireless Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) setup. Cisco Catalyst 1000 Series switches are proposed for wired networking, providing manageable, secure, and high-speed connectivity suitable for small enterprises (Cisco, 2023). For wireless connectivity, a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router, such as the Asus RT-AX88U, is recommended, giving the organization high throughput and low latency (Asus, 2023).

Additionally, managed network access points enable flexible device connectivity, and network security appliances such as Ubiquiti UniFi Security Gateway protect against external threats. These components collectively support seamless sharing of files and resources, accommodate future expansion, and improve network reliability. The network setup will employ VLAN segmentation to isolate sensitive data and control traffic, increasing security (Yan, 2021).

Peripherals

Peripheral devices extend the functionality of the PCs to meet diverse organizational needs. Recommended peripherals include high-resolution monitors (24-inch, full HD or 4K for detailed editing), laser printers with network capability for printing needs, external storage drives for data backup, and ergonomic peripherals like wireless keyboards and mice to promote comfort. Connectivity options involve HDMI or DisplayPort for monitors, USB 3.0 and USB-C ports for external drives and peripherals, and Ethernet or Wi-Fi for network connectivity (Anton & Brock, 2020).

Cost considerations factor in these peripherals by selecting reliable brands like Logitech, HP, or Dell, which offer durability and compatibility. The total peripheral costs include monitors ($200 each), printers ($250), external storage ($100), and peripherals like wireless keyboards/mice ($80 per set). These investments enhance user productivity and ergonomics, leading to more efficient workflows.

Security

Security encompasses hardware, network, and device management. PC security protocols include full disk encryption using Windows BitLocker, robust password policies, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and endpoint security solutions like Norton or McAfee antivirus and anti-malware suites (Fernandez, 2022). Deployment of regular system updates and patches ensures vulnerabilities are minimized.

The network security framework integrates a hardware firewall, VPN access for remote employees, and IDS/IPS systems for threat detection. Enforcing network segmentation via VLANs prevents lateral movement of malware. Additionally, implementing secure Wi-Fi with WPA3 encryption, hiding SSID broadcasts, and MAC address filtering further safeguards wireless communications (Li & Zhang, 2020).

Organizational security policies should include employee training on phishing prevention, data handling protocols, and regular security audits. Data backups stored off-site and in cloud solutions provide disaster recovery guarantees, ensuring business continuity (Kumar et al., 2023).

Conclusion

Adopting a holistic approach to hardware, networking, and security is essential for Star Solutions to operate efficiently, securely, and scalable. The recommended PCs, peripherals, and network infrastructure foster an environment conducive to high productivity and innovation. Simultaneously, rigorous security measures protect sensitive organizational data against evolving threats. Investing in these systems provides a foundation for sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the dynamic publishing industry.

References

  • Eckstone, C. (2021). Business-Class Desktop Computers and Their Features. TechReview Journal, 15(3), 45-52.
  • Dell. (2022). Dell Precision Mobile Workstations. Dell Technology Solutions. https://www.dell.com
  • Microsoft. (2023). Windows 11 Pro for Business. Microsoft Official Documentation. https://www.microsoft.com
  • Kumar, R., & Singh, P. (2022). Security Features of Windows 11: An Overview. Journal of Cybersecurity, 8(2), 115-127.
  • Cisco. (2023). Cisco Catalyst 1000 Series Switches Data Sheet. Cisco Systems. https://www.cisco.com
  • Asus. (2023). RT-AX88U Wi-Fi 6 Router. Asus Product Specifications. https://www.asus.com
  • Yan, L. (2021). Network Segmentation Strategies for Small Businesses. Journal of Network Security, 12(4), 67-75.
  • Anton, D., & Brock, S. (2020). Essential Peripherals for Modern Workstations. Tech & Productivity Monthly, 9(7), 22-28.
  • Fernandez, M. (2022). Endpoint Security Best Practices for Small Firms. Cybersecurity Today, 18(5), 89-97.
  • Li, W., & Zhang, T. (2020). Wireless Security Protocols for Enterprise Networks. Journal of Wireless Communication, 11(4), 234-242.

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