Narrative Descriptions Of Network Diagrams

Narrative Descriptions Of Network Diagramscyb360

International Plastics Inc. maintains a complex and interconnected network infrastructure across its corporate headquarters and manufacturing buildings. The network design is structured to support operational efficiency, data security, and reliable communication, integrating various types of networks, servers, storage solutions, and communication channels. This narrative aims to elucidate the detailed architecture of the network system, highlighting key components, connectivity, and the technological environment that sustains the company's business operations.

The corporate headquarters network is a composite of several interconnected sections, each optimized for specific operational functions. The backbone of this network utilizes a 100Base-T Ethernet for general connectivity, providing a robust and scalable foundation. The first section encompasses the administrative functions—including Corporate, HR, and related departments—utilizing computer icons to depict the current number of employees and devices such as VOIP telephones, of which there are 36 in this area. This setup ensures seamless voice communication and data exchange essential for administrative efficiency.

The R&D (Research and Development) area employs a 1000Base-Fiber Ethernet backbone, creating a high-speed environment conducive to intensive data processing and collaboration. It comprises 15 employees working on high-performance computers, supported by three high-end color printers and a plotter for design and prototyping tasks. This section is entirely MAC-based, facilitating secure and efficient data handling specific to research activities.

The network infrastructure includes critical server components housed within a secure server room. The servers comprise a Windows Server, Exchange Server, and a UNIX server that hosts the corporate SAP ERP software. All servers are IBM units—Windows servers are IBM HS20 blade servers, and the UNIX server is an IBM pSeries—designed to provide reliable, high-performance data processing and storage. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is deployed to backup power, ensuring server operation continuity during outages.

The communication environment is bifurcated into two main parts. The first involves a satellite-based data link operating in the Ka band, capable of handling OC1 data rates with AES end-to-end encryption for secure data transmission. This link connects the corporate headquarters to satellite orbit, facilitating remote communication with external entities. The second part incorporates a T3 connection routed through a firewall, providing secure outside network access via dedicated routers and switches, enriching the network with external connectivity and data flow.

The physical layout of facilities further complements the network architecture. The main corporate building spans six floors, occupying 16,000 square feet per floor, with offices around the perimeter and internal cubicles. The manufacturing footprint includes two manufacturing buildings—Building A with a single floor of 20,000 square feet and Building B with 24,000 square feet, including a loading dock. These buildings are connected via Ethernet and are located within 1,200 feet of the headquarters, with Buildings A and B situated approximately 100 feet apart. The distance between facilities is managed through Ethernet connections and satellite links, ensuring comprehensive coverage for production, logistics, and administrative functions.

Networking hardware within the organization includes 24-port hubs, Cisco IP phones, high-capacity switches, and gateways that support data, voice, and video transmission. Notably, the network integrates VOIP systems with 15 MAC PRO computers designated for specialized functions, enhanced by high-definition printers—both color and black-and-white multifunction units distributed across departments. The country’s telecommunication infrastructure incorporates a T3 line providing high bandwidth connectivity to external networks, complemented by satellite communication for remote site integration.

In summary, the network design at International Plastics Inc. reflects a layered approach combining high-speed fiber backbone, comprehensive server and storage deployment, satellite communication, and secure external connectivity. This architecture supports the company's varied operational needs—from administrative functions to R&D, manufacturing, and logistics—ensuring overarching system resilience, security, and scalability for future growth.

Paper For Above instruction

International Plastics Inc. has developed a sophisticated and layered network architecture that underpins its operational capabilities across various divisions, including corporate, research, manufacturing, and logistics. This network design emphasizes high-speed connectivity, security, redundancy, and flexible communication channels, integrating modern networking technologies suited for a manufacturing enterprise with global reach.

The centerpiece of this layout is a high-performance backbone, employing both 100Base-T Ethernet for general connectivity and 1000Base-F fiber optic links for mission-critical areas such as the R&D department. The fiber backbone ensures rapid data exchange and supports bandwidth-intensive applications like CAD/CAM, simulation, and data analysis used by researchers. These high-speed links are connected to core switches that distribute connectivity to individual departments and servers, forming a resilient and scalable infrastructure.

The administrative sector operates primarily on 100Base-T Ethernet, connecting a range of desktop computers and VOIP telephones—totaling 36 units—facilitating efficient communication and administrative workflows. The use of VOIP technology enables cost-effective voice communication within the enterprise and with external partners. Supporting these communications are switches and gateways that route voice traffic appropriately, integrating with the data network seamlessly.

The R&D environment, dedicated to innovation and product development, features high-end computers connected via high-capacity fiber links. The environment includes advanced peripherals such as color printers and plotters, which are essential for technical drawing and prototyping. The MAC-based environment enhances security and compatibility for specialized research software, ensuring confidentiality and data integrity.

Server infrastructure forms the backbone of enterprise resource planning and communication services. The network hosts email, ERP, and database servers, which are all IBM hardware—IBM HS20 blade servers for Windows environments and IBM pSeries for UNIX operating systems. These servers are protected by UPS systems to prevent data loss during power outages, ensuring continuous availability of business-critical applications. The UNIX server hosts the SAP ERP software, vital for supply chain management and enterprise resource planning.

The communication channels leverage satellite technology and terrestrial broadband connections to facilitate remote communication and data sharing. The satellite link, operating in the Ka band, utilizes AES encryption, providing a secure and high-bandwidth link capable of OC1 data rates—around 51.8 Mbps. This satellite connection supports remote operations, disaster recovery, and remote data access, especially in areas where wired infrastructure might be limited. The terrestrial T3 connection provides a dedicated, high-capacity link to external networks, protected by firewalls and routed through dedicated switches and routers.

The physical layout of facilities aligns with the network infrastructure to optimize coverage and maintain operational efficiency. The main corporate building spans six floors with internal offices, interconnected via high-speed Ethernet and Wi-Fi. The manufacturing facilities—Building A and Building B—are situated within proximity (100 feet apart) and linked through Ethernet or satellite connectivity. Both buildings include manufacturing floors, loading docks, and logistical support zones, each incorporated into the overall network through wired and wireless connections.

The hardware infrastructure supports an array of devices critical for operations, including high-capacity switches, routers, VOIP gateways, and printers. Notable peripherals include several color and black-and-white multifunction printers distributed across departments to support documentation and product development. The network employs Cisco switches and VOIP gateways to support seamless voice and data transmission, integrating voice communication with data networks efficiently.

This design also anticipates future scalability by leveraging fiber optic backbones, modular server configurations, and flexible wireless connectivity. The integration of satellite links ensures global reach, and redundancy measures like UPS backups and multiple communication paths enhance resilience. Overall, the network architecture at International Plastics Inc. demonstrates a strategic, multi-layered approach to supporting complex operational needs, ensuring security, high availability, and scalability for ongoing enterprise growth.

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