For This Assignment You Will Continue The Development Of You

For This Assignment You Will Continue The Development Of Your Network

For this assignment, you will continue the development of your network design and infrastructure proposal document for your selected organization. New content will include a section for the Network Design and Architecture section. In this section, you will focus on the specifics of the design and architecture, and provide details regarding the hardware and software that are required to build an effective network.

The project deliverables are the following: Update the network design and architecture proposal document's title page with new date and project name. Update the previously completed sections based on instructor feedback. The Network Design and Architecture section should include the following:

• Infrastructure: Describe the network architecture that is suitable for this distributed network. Include at least 1 visual model of the system that identifies the major components. Justify the physical design of the system with reference to the requirements established in previous sections of the proposal. Summarize the estimated cost of the network infrastructure.
• Software: Describe the software required for the network. Include the operating systems and other software applications that are required to meet the functional and operational requirements established in previous sections of the proposal. Summarize the estimated cost of the network software.

Be sure to update your table of contents before submission. Name the document yourname_CS635_IP4.doc.

Paper For Above instruction

Developing a comprehensive network design and architecture plan is crucial for ensuring the operational efficiency, scalability, and security of an organization's IT infrastructure. For this purpose, this paper delineates the key components of the network architecture suitable for a distributed organization, details the hardware and software requirements, and provides a cost estimate to facilitate informed decision-making.

Network Design and Architecture

The foundation of an effective network for a distributed organization hinges on a scalable, reliable, and secure architecture. A hybrid topology incorporating both star and mesh configurations is optimal for these criteria. The core network typically adopts a hierarchical model comprising core, distribution, and access layers. The core layer ensures high-speed data transfer and redundancy, while the distribution layer aggregately manages data traffic and enforces security policies. The access layer connects end devices such as workstations, servers, and IoT devices.

For geographic dispersion, a virtual private network (VPN) coupled with site-to-site connections ensures secure communication over public networks. Cloud integration via private or hybrid clouds supports remote access and scalability. Additionally, implementing redundant links and failover mechanisms enhances network resilience. A visual model (see Figure 1) depicts this architecture, with major components including routers, switches, firewalls, VPN gateways, and cloud services interconnected through secure channels.

Justification for this physical design aligns with the organization's requirements for high availability, security, and support for remote workforce. Redundant pathways minimize downtime, while segmentation via VLANs helps isolate sensitive data. The architecture supports future expansion, including additional branches or cloud resources, through modular component placement.

The estimated cost of the network infrastructure includes hardware procurement, setup, and maintenance. For example, core routers and switches are projected at approximately $50,000, with security appliances (firewalls, intrusion detection systems) costing about $20,000. Additional expenses cover cabling, rack installation, and initial configuration, summing approximately $15,000. Overall, the infrastructure investment is estimated at $85,000, aligning with the organization's scaled needs.

Software Requirements

The network's software ecosystem comprises operating systems, network management tools, security applications, and collaboration platforms. Enterprise-grade operating systems like Windows Server or Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu Server, CentOS) are essential for server functions, virtualization, and service hosting. Client devices utilize Windows 10/11 or macOS, depending on user needs.

Network management relies on tools such as Cisco Prime, SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor, or Nagios, which facilitate monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting. Security software includes firewalls, antivirus suites, and intrusion detection/prevention systems; popular choices are Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, and Snort. Encryption software for VPNs ensures secure remote access.

The organization also requires collaboration and productivity software, including Microsoft Office 365 or Google Workspace, to support communication across distributed locations. The cost of network software varies depending on licensing models; for instance, enterprise security solutions could amount to $10,000 annually, while management tools average $3,000 annually. Operating system licenses are approximately $1,000 per server, and client OS licenses are about $150 per device.

The total estimated cost for software procurement and licensing is around $30,000 initially, with ongoing annual expenses of about $10,000 for maintenance and subscriptions. These investments ensure the network’s operational integrity, security, and user productivity.

Conclusion

In summary, constructing a robust and scalable network architecture involves a detailed understanding of the organizational needs, selection of appropriate hardware components, and deployment of effective software solutions. The proposed hybrid topology with redundant links and comprehensive security measures addresses the critical requirements of availability, security, and future scalability. The financial estimates align with the organization's scope, offering a balanced view of investment and benefit. Continuous review and upgrades are recommended to keep pace with technological advances and emerging threats.

References

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