Narrative Descriptions Of Network Diagrams For Riordan Manuf

Narrative Descriptions Of Network Diagrams For Riordan Manufacturingth

The set of network diagrams for Riordan Manufacturing comprises five main diagrams, each illustrating different facets of the company's network infrastructure across its various locations. These diagrams include an overview of the entire network, detailed layouts of the corporate headquarters, and individual diagrams for the Albany, Georgia, and Pontiac, Michigan facilities, as well as the China headquarters. Each diagram provides insights into the network topology, backbone technologies, operational functions, and interconnected systems that support the company's operations.

Paper For Above instruction

Riordan Manufacturing operates a complex network infrastructure that spans multiple geographic locations, including corporate headquarters, regional facilities in Albany, Georgia, Pontiac, Michigan, and an international facility in China. The network architecture is designed to facilitate seamless communication, data sharing, and operational efficiency across all sites, utilizing a mixture of wired LANs, WAN links, and satellite communication technologies.

Network Overview

The comprehensive network overview diagram depicts five primary locations interconnected via a Wide Area Network (WAN). The WAN employs various communication channels, including satellite links between corporate headquarters and China's facility. The satellite link is distinguished by its operation in Ka band, capable of handling end-to-end encryption at OC1 data rates, ensuring secure data transmission. The physical layout emphasizes the connectivity between these locations, highlighting the strategic use of satellite communication to bridge distant facilities and maintain continuous operational communication.

Corporate Headquarters Network

The corporate headquarters network diagram reveals a detailed topology characterized by multiple subnetworks, each serving distinct functions. The backbone foundation of the network is a 100Base-T Ethernet, providing standard wired connectivity throughout the facility. The operational zones include the administration section and research and development (R&D). The administration area hosts core functions such as HR and executive operations, supported by computers equipped with VOIP telephones—numbering approximately 36—facilitating internal and external communication.

The R&D sector relies on a 1000Base-Fiber (F) backbone, emphasizing high-speed data transfer suited for design, development, and research activities. The environment is MAC-based, with 15 employees working on high-end computers, along with a suite of peripherals including color printers and plotters, connected via a switch to the fiber backbone. The server infrastructure comprises multiple IBM servers, notably Windows servers (HS20 blade servers), a UNIX server (IBM p series), and an internal Network Attached Storage (NAS) system. These servers facilitate enterprise applications, including SAP ERP systems, and are protected by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), ensuring business continuity during outages.

The communications environment includes dedicated links to the satellite station, utilizing switches and VOIP routers for voice communication. The satellite setup is configured for OC1 data rates with robust security features like end-to-end encryption. Additionally, a firewall-protected T3 line connects the headquarters to external networks, securing corporate data exchanges.

Regional Facilities: Albany, GA and Pontiac, MI

The facilities in Albany, Georgia, and Pontiac, Michigan, feature similar network architectures optimized for their operational needs. In Albany, the network supports 20 office computers for administrative staff, connected via a local LAN managed by an HP BL460P blade server. This server handles local printing, file sharing, and serves as an interface to the corporate network, emphasizing centralized data management and remote connectivity. A NAS system provides local data backup capabilities, protected by a 5 KVA UPS for power redundancy. The facility maintains a T2 connection to the outside world through a dedicated router and firewall, ensuring secure communication with the broader corporate network.

The Pontiac facility, similar in design and hardware, supports 45 administrative computers. It also features an HP BL460P blade server, NAS, UPS, and T2 Internet connectivity. Internal connectivity to the factory floor is managed via a 24-port Cisco switch, supporting automation, data collection, and internal communication needs.

China Headquarters Network

The China facility's network diagram mirrors the corporate headquarters' structure, adapted to its operational context. The backbone is a 100Base-T Ethernet network connecting various sectors. The administration section manages functions similar to the U.S. headquarters, with 35 VOIP telephones facilitating communication among employees and departments. The R&D environment relies on a 1000Base-Fiber backbone, supporting high-speed data processing with 15 employees and peripherals, including color printers and plotters.

The server infrastructure includes Windows servers (HS20 blades), a UNIX server (IBM p series), and an NAS device, all interfaced with corporate SAP ERP systems. Power backup is provided via UPS units to prevent data loss or system downtime. Communication with the outside world is managed through satellite links operating in Ka band, supporting OC1 data rates with high security, and T3 connections secured behind firewalls. These arrangements ensure that the China operation remains integrated with corporate functions while maintaining adequate security and connectivity.

Conclusion

Overall, Riordan Manufacturing’s network architecture exemplifies a robust, multi-tiered infrastructure designed to support diverse operational needs across multiple locations worldwide. The integration of high-speed fiber backbones, satellite communication, and secure external links demonstrates an emphasis on reliability, security, and scalability. Each facility's localized networks are optimized for their specific functions, while the overarching WAN ensures cohesive and secure enterprise-wide connectivity, facilitating efficient data exchange and communication essential for global manufacturing operations.

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