Networking Recommendations For Nonprofit Office Relocation

Networking Recommendations for Nonprofit Office Relocation

In this scenario, you have been hired as a networking consultant by a nonprofit organization that is relocating its main office to a new building across town. The organization plans to facilitate wired and wireless connectivity for 40 users, along with network access to an IBM iView Document Center and two HP 4230 LaserJet printers. The project requires thorough planning and recommendations to ensure a robust, secure, and scalable network infrastructure that accommodates the organization's BYOD policy and operational needs. This document outlines the key beneficiaries, proposed deliverables, and network architecture to support the office relocation and business continuity.

Beneficiaries of the Network Upgrade

The primary beneficiaries of this network upgrade are the organization’s employees, who will enjoy improved connectivity, faster access to shared resources, and enhanced security measures. Employees using desktops, mobile devices, or both will benefit from a reliable network that supports their daily tasks efficiently. The IT staff will benefit from a manageable, scalable, and easier-to-maintain infrastructure, enabling quicker troubleshooting and future growth. The organization as a whole will benefit through increased productivity, streamlined communication, and secure access to sensitive documents, facilitating better workflows and data management. Additionally, external partners or vendors who need secure remote access to certain resources may benefit from a properly configured external access setup, enhancing collaboration opportunities.

Deliverables for the Network Infrastructure

Hardware Components

The hardware setup will comprise various components to fulfill the functional and scalability requirements of the new office. These include:

• Network Interface Cards (NICs): All desktop computers and servers will feature gigabit Ethernet NICs for wired connections, providing high-speed, stable connectivity. Mobile devices and laptops will predominantly use wireless NICs compliant with current Wi-Fi standards.
• Routers and Wireless Access Points (WAPs): A high-capacity router will be installed as the central gateway to the Internet and the internal network. Several WAPs will be strategically placed to ensure seamless Wi-Fi coverage across the entire office space, supporting the BYOD environment and multiple concurrent connections.
• Switches: Managed gigabit switches will connect wired devices, printers, and network servers. These switches support VLAN configurations for network segmentation and enhanced security.
• Cabling and Connectors: Category 6 Ethernet cables will be used to connect desktops, printers, and switches, supporting gigabit speeds and future upgrades. Corrugated conduits and patch panels will facilitate organized wiring.
• Networked Printers and Devices: The two HP LaserJet printers and IBM iView Document Center will be connected to the network via Ethernet ports, either through wired or wireless connections as needed.

Physical and Logical Topology

The physical topology will resemble a star configuration, with the central switch connecting all wired devices and WAPs. The logical topology will utilize VLANs to segment traffic—separating administrative, printing, and guest networks for security and performance optimization.

Network Protocols and Addressing

The organization will adopt IPv4 as the primary IP version because of its widespread compatibility with current hardware and infrastructure; however, IPv6 will be implemented in the future for scalability and to future-proof the network. An IP address pool of 192.168.1.0/24 will be assigned, providing 254 usable IP addresses for devices, with specific subranges allocated for administrative and guest networks.

DNS, DHCP, and Additional Software Components

A DNS server will resolve domain names to IP addresses within the internal network, simplifying resource access. DHCP will dynamically assign IP addresses to client devices, reducing manual configuration, with reservations made for key infrastructure devices like servers and printers. Network security software, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, will be deployed to protect sensitive data and maintain compliance with organizational policies.

Conclusion

The proposed network infrastructure aims to support the nonprofit organization’s operational needs during recent relocation. By integrating high-quality hardware components, implementing secure and scalable IP addressing strategies, and ensuring comprehensive network management protocols, the organization will benefit from reliable connectivity, increased productivity, and enhanced security. Proper planning and execution of this network design will facilitate future growth and technology adoption, positioning the nonprofit for continued success in its mission-driven activities.

References

• Comer, D. E. (2018). Internetworking with TCP/IP volume One: Principles, Protocols, and Architecture (6th ed.). Pearson.
• Kurose, J. F., & Ross, K. W. (2021). Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (8th ed.). Pearson.
• Li, W., & Padmanabhan, V. (2019). Network Design and Management. Journal of Network and Systems Management, 27(3), 440-455.
• Odom, W. (2019). CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide Library. Cisco Press.
• Smith, R. (2020). Securing Enterprise Networks: Best Practices and Strategies. Cybersecurity Journal, 8(2), 45-60.