Network Design And Configuration Document For RL Medical Ima
Network Design and Configuration Document for RL Medical Imaging
Throughout this course, you will work on several aspects of network design and configuration that will result in a complete network design and configuration document for the scenario that is described below. You will not configure a real network, but you will work extensively with the concepts of good network design and configuration practices. Additional information and the deliverables for each Individual Project will be provided in the assignment description for the project. For this course, your projects will be for a company named RL Medical Imaging (RLMI). This company provides imaging services (MRIs, CAT scans, etc.) for physicians in the greater New York metropolitan area.
The company has 50 clients with an average of 10 patients per week, per client, and it expects to grow at a rapid pace during the next 5 years. The company's clients schedule imaging for their patients. Patient information is currently delivered to RLMI as paper documents. Imaging is performed, and the results are recorded (again on paper) and sent back to the client. The goal for RLMI is to transform its current paper system to a computerized system and create a network with appropriate servers and workstations to support the required software and staff.
In addition, RLMI would like to provide scheduling and results services via the Web to its clients. The company has 20 staff members (10 imaging technicians, 3 doctors, 1 sales and customer service representative, and 6 clerical staffers). The average results package (data and images) is 50 MB in size. The company must protect patient data because of federal patient-privacy laws, so security measures are important. In addition, the patient records are valuable, and the imaging is expensive, so it is important that a solid data backup process is in place.
Paper For Above instruction
Empty Section 1: Network Design
Empty Section 2: Server and Workstation Operating Systems
Empty Section 3: Network Protocols
Empty Section 4: Users and Security
Empty Section 5: Backup and Recovery
Creating the Network Design for RL Medical Imaging
Designing an appropriate network for RL Medical Imaging requires a comprehensive understanding of its operational needs, data management, security concerns, and future growth plans. The primary goal is to develop a scalable, secure, and efficient network that facilitates effective data transmission, storage, and access for all stakeholders, including medical staff, administrative personnel, and external clients through web services.
Network Diagram and Hardware Components
The physical network architecture should include core routers, switches, servers, workstations, and security devices such as firewalls. The design will feature a centralized server setup that hosts the electronic health records system, imaging storage, and web services. Employing redundant links and failover mechanisms ensures high availability and minimizes downtime. The network diagram visually depicts these components and illustrates the connections among servers, workstations, and external access points.
Justification of the Network Design
The network's architecture is driven by the need to securely handle large imaging files, typically around 50 MB per case, and to support concurrent access by staff and clients. A segregated subnet for administrative and medical staff enhances security, while a dedicated web server allows external clients to access scheduling and results portals securely. Implementing virtual LANs (VLANs) subdivides the network logically, providing better traffic management and enhanced security.
The choice of hardware such as gigabit switches and high-capacity servers ensures fast data transfer and storage capabilities. Employing enterprise-grade firewalls and VPN solutions secures patient data both at rest and during transmission, complying with HIPAA requirements.
Cost Summary
The initial investment involves purchasing professional-grade routers, switches, servers with redundant power supplies, and security appliances. The hardware costs are estimated at approximately $200,000, factoring in brand and capacity. Software licenses for operating systems (such as Windows Server or Linux), security, and backup solutions add additional costs, estimated at $50,000. Installation and configuration labor costs are projected at $25,000, considering the complexity of the setup.
Operational costs include ongoing maintenance, security updates, and data storage expansion, which are projected at $10,000 annually. A detailed budget allocation allows RL Medical Imaging to plan for future growth and technology upgrades effectively.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
The proposed network design aligns with RL Medical Imaging’s immediate needs and future growth prospects. Incorporating high-capacity servers with secure web access ensures efficiency, security, and compliance with federal privacy laws. Regular audits and data backup protocols are integral to maintaining system integrity and data availability. This design provides a robust foundation for RLMI's transition from paper-based processes to a digital, secure, and scalable network infrastructure.
References
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