Network Installation Overview: Write A 3–5-Page Recommendati ✓ Solved

Network Installation Overview Write a 3–5-page recommendation

Write a 3–5-page recommendation about network installation for a hypothetical small business. Imagine your cousin, Frank, just bought a small hardware store. He wants to install a network that will include 14 PCs; a printer, scanner, and fax combination; and a cable modem line that are all currently configured as a P2P network. Frank is on a tight budget, so he would like to do the work himself. He has been conducting research and cannot decide if he should install Cat5, Cat6, or fiber. He has asked you to help with his decision.

To prepare to make recommendations, complete the practice labs provided in the Virtual Resource Portal activity for this assessment. Then, using research you conduct on the Internet and the lab activity as references, write a 3–5-page report in which you make recommendations to Frank. Address the following: Compare and contrast the different cabling standards. Discuss the cost benefits of client/server networks. Define the basic concepts of network cabling. Recommend a network to Frank based on your research. Apply the concepts from the practice lab activity for this assessment.

Written communication must be free of errors that detract from the overall message. If you use sources, ensure that resources and citations are formatted according to APA (6th edition) style and formatting. Use Times New Roman, 12 point font.

Paper For Above Instructions

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, establishing a reliable network is fundamental for small business operations. This paper will explore the various options for network installation in Frank's new hardware store, which requires a reliable setup for 14 PCs along with peripheral devices like a printer, scanner, fax machine, and a cable modem. The recommendation will include a comparison of cabling standards—namely Cat5, Cat6, and fiber optic—as well as a discussion on the cost benefits of client/server networks versus peer-to-peer (P2P) setups.

Understanding Cabling Standards

The choice of cabling is crucial as it significantly influences network performance, bandwidth, and speed. Cat5 cabling, although older, can support data transfer speeds of 100 Mbps over distances of up to 100 meters. It is typically sufficient for modest home networks and small businesses but may be limited for more extensive data demands.

On the other hand, Cat6 offers substantial improvements, supporting speeds of up to 10 Gbps for shorter distances (up to 55 meters), thanks to its enhanced insulation and reduced crosstalk. This makes it a competent choice for businesses that anticipate growth or require higher bandwidth applications.

Lastly, fiber optic cabling surpasses both Cat5 and Cat6 in terms of speed and bandwidth, supporting data transmission over vast distances without loss of quality. It is ideal for businesses needing high-speed connections and can facilitate the advanced operations of data-heavy applications (West, Dean, & Andrews, 2016).

Cost Benefits of Client/Server Networks

While P2P networks, like the one currently in Frank's business, might seem economical to establish, they often present significant limitations that can become costly over time. Client/server networks centralize data management, which improves security and systems administration (Shannon, 2015). Additionally, client/server networks scale better as Frank's business grows, allowing for easy additions of workstations and devices without compromising performance.

Furthermore, client/server setups can offer cost benefits through consolidated resources. For instance, networking devices such as printers and storage can be shared, leading to lower overall hardware investments. The reliability associated with a client/server model generally leads to reduced downtime and maintenance costs (Skillsoft, n.d.).

Network Cabling Concepts

The foundation of an efficient network lies in understanding basic cabling concepts. Structured cabling involves planning and installing a comprehensive cabling system that supports various data rates and types. General categories of twisted pair cabling, such as U/FTP (unshielded twisted pair with foil shielding), can protect against electromagnetic interference, which is essential in environments where machinery operates (West, Dean, & Andrews, 2016).

Additionally, knowledge of how to implement and manage network switches and routers will be pivotal for Frank. Switches enable multiple devices to communicate efficiently on the same network, while a router will connect this local network to the larger internet. By using appropriate cabling standards and equipment, Frank can ensure that his store’s operations run smoothly (Shannon, 2015).

Recommendations for Frank

Considering Frank's current setup as well as the anticipated growth of his hardware store, it is recommended that he invests in either Cat6 cabling or fiber optic cabling. While fiber costs more upfront, it will prove to be an economical choice in the long run through its durability and performance capabilities. For initial installation purposes and based on budget constraints, Cat6 is a scalable option that offers a good balance of cost and performance, laying the groundwork for possible future upgrades to fiber.

To encapsulate, while transitioning from a P2P network to a client/server model will demand some investment, its long-term benefits in terms of reliability, security, and expandability provide significant advantages that align with Frank's business growth objectives.

Conclusion

In summary, Frank's journey towards improving his hardware store's network requires strategic planning and considerable investments in better cabling options. Through comparing cabling standards and evaluating the financial feasibility of client/server networks, he can ensure a seamless network experience for all users. By planning diligently, Frank can establish a robust infrastructure that not only meets today’s demands but is also equipped for tomorrow’s challenges.

References

• Skillsoft. (n.d.). CompTIA Network+ N10-006: Network architecture, part 1 [Tutorial].
• Shannon, M. (2015). ARCH: Infrastructure device access [Video]. Skillsoft Ireland.
• West, J., Dean, T., & Andrews, J. (2016). Network+ guide to networks (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.
• Department of Justice. (2006). An introduction to networks. Government Printing Office.
• Stallings, W. (2015). Data and computer communications (10th ed.). Pearson.
• Behrouz, A. F. (2015). Data communications and networking (5th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
• Forouzan, B. A. (2017). Data communications and networking (5th ed.). Cengage Learning.
• Oppenheimer, P. (2010). Top-down network design (3rd ed.). Cisco Press.
• Kurose, J. F., & Ross, K. W. (2017). Computer networking: A top-down approach (7th ed.). Pearson.
• Radia, P. (2016). Network systems design using MATLAB and Simulink. Springer.