Network Diagram Instructions Introduction

Network Diagram Instructions Introduction This is a

This project involves creating an architectural network diagram for FractalApps, a software startup expanding into multiple locations in Washington, DC; Brooklyn, NY; and San Francisco, CA. The diagram must illustrate the placement of security measures, LAN, WAN, and VPN components that support their voice and data needs, including remote access for mobile users. The deliverable should include a comprehensive description of the proposed network architecture—covering LAN, WAN, and VPN solutions—and a detailed, professional network diagram showing interconnections, hardware, and security placements, possibly including hand-drawn sketches or multiple diagrams for clarity.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The modern organizational landscape demands robust, secure, and flexible network architectures, especially for businesses like FractalApps that operate across multiple geographically dispersed locations. An effective converged network integrating Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) is critical to facilitate seamless, secure, and efficient communication among offices, staff, and remote workers. This paper outlines a comprehensive network design tailored to FractalApps’ operational needs, emphasizing security, scalability, availability, and quality of service.

Proposed Network Architecture

The core of FractalApps’ network solution hinges on a standardized LAN design for each office. Each office—DC headquarters, Brooklyn sales office, and San Francisco development center—will feature a LAN comprising enterprise-grade switches, routers, and wireless access points to ensure high-speed wired and wireless connectivity. These LANs will be constructed with structured cabling, utilizing color-coded Ethernet cables and rack-mounted switches to maintain clarity and manageability. Wireless access points will support secure Wi-Fi access for employees and guests, with security enhanced through WPA3 encryption, 802.1X authentication, and appropriate encryption protocols.

At the WAN level, a cost-effective and reliable WAN technology such as MPLS or broadband VPN will interconnect the three offices, providing secure, dedicated pathways or encrypted tunnels for data transport. Each site will be equipped with a VPN-capable router configured for site-to-site VPN tunnels, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity across the interconnected network. These WAN links are vital for collaboration, data sharing, and centralized management.

Security Infrastructure

Security remains a paramount concern in the design. The network will incorporate layered security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and secure VPN gateways. Firewalls with VPN-aware features will control inbound and outbound traffic, filtering only legitimate VPN sessions and safeguarding against unauthorized access.

For remote and mobile workers, a robust VPN solution employing client software and VPN concentrators will be implemented. This setup allows users to securely connect from any location, with multi-factor authentication (MFA) adding an extra layer of security. The VPN will utilize high-availability configurations, ensuring persistent connectivity even in case of hardware failures or breaches. Additionally, network segmentation will ensure traffic isolation, preventing sensitive business data from mixing with less secure content or guest access.

Technology Components

• LAN Components: Enterprise switches, wireless access points, routers, structured cabling, rack management accessories.
• WAN Components: MPLS or broadband internet, routers with WAN interfaces, WAN switches, and network core devices.
• VPN Components: VPN firewalls, VPN client software, VPN concentrators, secure gateways, multi-factor authentication tools.

Diagram Overview

The network diagram will clearly depict each office’s LAN architecture, illustrating switches, access points, and cabling. The WAN diagram will show inter-office links, demonstrating the selected WAN technology, such as MPLS or VPN tunnels over broadband. The VPN schematic will detail remote worker access points, VPN servers, and security measures, including MFA and encryption protocols. The interconnection diagram among all three locations will emphasize security zones, segmentation, and the convergence of voice and data streams for unified communication.

Conclusion

This proposed network architecture aligns with FractalApps’ business goals of security, efficiency, and scalability. Standardized LAN components across offices promote manageability, while secure WAN links and VPN solutions enable all staff, whether onsite or remote, to collaborate effectively without compromising security. Proper implementation of this design will ensure that FractalApps can sustain their growth, protect vital data, and deliver high-quality services to their clients.

References

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