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Exemplaryproficientprogressingemergingelement 1responsiveness Did the student respond to the main question of the week? 9 points (28%) Posts exceed requirements of the Discussion instructions (e.g., respond to the question being asked; go beyond what is required [i.e., incorporates additional readings outside of the assigned Learning Resources, and/or shares relevant professional experiences]; are substantive, reflective, and refers to Learning Resources demonstrating that the student has considered the information in Learning Resources and colleague postings). 9 points Posts are responsive to and meet the requirements of the Discussion instructions. Posts respond to the question being asked in a substantive, reflective way and refer to Learning Resources demonstrating that the student has read, viewed, and considered the Learning Resources and colleague postings.

Paper For Above instruction

Exemplaryproficientprogressingemergingelement 1responsiveness Did

Exemplaryproficientprogressingemergingelement 1responsiveness Did

As an IT networking trainee assigned to evaluate and improve the network at the Mayberry Satellite Campus, the task involves reviewing the current network cabling infrastructure and proposing solutions to enhance network speed. This process requires a comprehensive analysis of existing cable types, their speeds, and functionalities, followed by formulating viable solutions to upgrade the network’s performance.

The current cabling setup plays a crucial role in establishing a reliable and efficient network infrastructure. The types of cables used, their bandwidth capacities, and their designated functions directly impact network speed and overall performance. Therefore, understanding the specifications and limitations of the existing cables provides a foundational basis for recommending enhancements.

Evaluation of Current Network Cabling

The first step involves identifying the types of cables currently in use. Typical networking cables may include twisted pair Ethernet cables (such as Cat 5e, Cat 6), fiber optic cables, or coaxial cables. Each type offers different performance levels, with fiber optics generally providing higher speeds and longer distances than copper cables. The existing setup should be assessed to determine compatibility with higher-speed solutions.

Next, evaluating the speeds associated with the current cables involves analyzing the maximum data transfer rates they support. For example, Cat 5e cables typically support speeds up to 1 Gbps, whereas Cat 6 and higher perform better, supporting up to 10 Gbps over shorter distances. Fiber optic cables can support significantly higher speeds, often exceeding 100 Gbps, making them suitable for high-performance network upgrades.

The main functions of these cables include connecting network devices, transmitting data across different segments, and supporting critical network operations. Understanding their roles clarifies which upgrades will yield the most significant performance improvements without disrupting existing functions.

Proposed Solutions for Network Speed Enhancement

Solution 1: Upgrading to Cat 6a or Higher Copper Cables

This solution involves replacing existing copper cables with Cat 6a or higher specifications, which support speeds up to 10 Gbps over distances up to 100 meters. Cat 6a cables have better shielding and reduced crosstalk, making them ideal for high-speed applications. Implementation involves auditing existing cabling, replacing or installing new cables, and ensuring compatibility with network hardware. This upgrade is cost-effective and minimizes disruptions, providing a significant boost in data transfer speeds while maintaining copper-based infrastructure.

Solution 2: Transitioning to Fiber Optic Cabling

Switching to fiber optic cables offers a substantial increase in network performance. Fiber optics support extremely high data rates, often exceeding 100 Gbps, and are resistant to electromagnetic interference, enhancing reliability. This solution entails installing fiber optic runs between key network segments, upgrading network switches and interfaces to support fiber connectivity, and training IT staff for maintenance. Although more costly initially, fiber optic cabling future-proofs the network and delivers unmatched speed and bandwidth, especially suitable for data-intensive applications and large-scale campus deployments.

Considerations for Implementation

Choosing between these solutions depends on factors such as budget, existing infrastructure, and future scalability needs. Upgrading to Cat 6a is a practical first step, providing a quick performance boost without extensive overhaul costs. Conversely, adopting fiber optic cabling positions the campus for long-term growth and advanced network capabilities.

Effective deployment of either solution involves meticulous planning, vendor selection, and ensuring minimal disruption to campus activities. Testing post-installation performance benchmarks ensures upgrades meet expected standards and support network demands effectively.

Conclusion

Enhancing the campus network's speed at the Mayberry Satellite Campus requires a strategic approach rooted in thorough assessment and informed decision-making. Upgrading current copper cabling to Cat 6a offers immediate improvements with limited disruption, while transitioning to fiber optics provides higher future-proofing benefits. A phased implementation plan considering budget constraints and growth projections will optimize network performance and support the campus’s evolving technological needs.

References

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  • Cisco Systems. (2022). Understanding Cabling Technologies for Network Upgrades. Cisco White Paper.
  • Nielsen, P. (2019). The Benefits of Fiber Optic Cabling in Campus Networks. Journal of Communication Technology, 15(4), 230-237.
  • Rouse, M. (2021). Ethernet Cable Standards and Performance. TechTarget.
  • IEEE Standards Association. (2018). IEEE 802.3 Ethernet Standards.
  • Peterson, L., & Davie, B. (2012). Computer Networks: A Systems Approach. Morgan Kaufmann.
  • Griffith, J. (2020). Designing High-Performance Campus Networks. Network World.
  • Antonopoulos, N. & Gill, P. (2019). Data Centers and Fiber Optic Technologies. IEEE Communications Magazine, 57(2), 42-47.
  • Seifert, J. (2017). Implementing Network Upgrades: Strategies and Challenges. IT Pro Magazine.
  • Odom, W. (2021). Ethernet Cabling Best Practices. Network Magazine.