Propose A Modern Network Solution For Sunshine Health Corp

Propose a Modern Network Solution for Sunshine Health Corporation

Sunshine Health Corporation’s outdated office infrastructure requires comprehensive modernization to enhance operational efficiency, communication, and remote work capabilities. The current legacy PBX, aging wiring, dial-up connectivity, and unnetworked computers hinder productivity and communication flow. To modernize, I propose implementing a structured cabling system to replace the patchwork setup, providing reliable high-speed connectivity throughout the office. The existing PBX should be upgraded to a VoIP-based IP PBX system, which consolidates voice communications onto the network, reducing costs and increasing flexibility. Wireless access points (Wi-Fi 6) can be installed strategically to support both the in-office workforce and remote connections, ensuring fast, secure access for staff working remotely or using mobile devices.

For local area network (LAN), deploying switches with VLANs will segment different departments, improving performance and security. The WAN can leverage an MPLS or SD-WAN connection, offering scalable, prioritized bandwidth for voice, data, and remote sites. The remote marketing staff, who prefer working from home, should receive standard laptops with virtualization software to ensure compatibility with Office 2003 and future updates. Centralized file servers and cloud-based storage solutions will streamline document management and eliminate the current reliance on handwritten corrections and printed documents, fostering collaboration and reducing redundancy.

Implementing a modern network infrastructure with secure Wi-Fi, VoIP, VLAN segmentation, and cloud integration will improve communication, collaboration, and operational efficiency. Supporting tools like unified communication platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams) can further enhance remote and in-office connectivity, ensuring readiness for the new executive president and aligning with modern business standards. Cost-effective choices such as utilizing existing infrastructure where feasible and prioritizing scalable solutions will help control expenses while future-proofing operations.

Paper For Above instruction

Sunshine Health Corporation’s need to overhaul its outdated communications and network infrastructure is urgent to meet modern business demands. The company’s reliance on legacy systems such as an old PBX, dial-up connections, and unorganized wiring limits productivity, hampers communication, and impedes remote working capabilities. A comprehensive modernization strategy is required, covering both hardware upgrades and network redesign with scalability and security in mind.

The first step involves establishing a structured cabling infrastructure throughout the office building. This move will replace the current patchwork arrangement, ensuring reliable high-speed connectivity and easier maintenance. High-quality Ethernet cabling, such as Cat6a or higher, should be installed to support gigabit speeds and future upgrades. This foundation will underpin both wired and wireless communications, crucial for supporting various devices comfortably.

A primary upgrade involves replacing the outdated PBX with a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system. VoIP allows voice communication to occur over the data network, significantly reducing telephone costs, providing advanced features, and supporting remote access. Companies like Cisco or Avaya offer scalable VoIP solutions suitable for small to medium-sized offices, which can be integrated with existing network infrastructure to provide seamless voice communications. This transition will also reduce physical space dedicated to traditional telephone hardware, freeing office space for other uses.

Wireless connectivity is essential given the remote work trend among the marketing team and the need for flexible work environments. Implementing Wi-Fi 6 access points provides increased speed, capacity, and security, enabling staff to connect securely from various locations in the office. Proper placement of access points will ensure full coverage and support the high data transfer rates required for multimedia communication and remote collaboration tools.

On the LAN side, deploying managed switches with Virtual LAN (VLAN) configurations will segment different departments, enhancing security and reducing broadcast traffic. For instance, separate VLANs can be designated for administrative staff, marketing, and executive suites. This segmentation simplifies management and enhances security, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.

The WAN connection should be upgraded from the current ISDN and DSL links to a modern MPLS or SD-WAN setup. MPLS provides reliable, scalable bandwidth with quality of service (QoS) features, ensuring priority handling for voice and mission-critical data. SD-WAN technology offers cost-effective bandwidth aggregation and centralized management, connecting multiple office sites or remote workers securely. Virtual private networks (VPNs) should be employed to facilitate remote access for staff working from home, ensuring secure communications with corporate resources.

Considering remote work, the marketing team should be provided with standardized, pre-configured laptops equipped with virtualization software that emulates the Office 2003 environment. This approach ensures compatibility and streamlines IT management. Additionally, a centralized file server or cloud storage solutions like Microsoft OneDrive or SharePoint will eliminate manual, paper-based processes, easing document sharing, version control, and collaboration.

To further improve efficiency, implementing unified communication platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack integrates messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing. These tools enhance collaboration among remote and in-office staff, reducing reliance on printed documents and manual review processes.

Cost considerations focus on balancing the need for modernization with budget constraints. Reusing existing wiring where feasible, investing in scalable and modular hardware, and leveraging cloud services help control costs. Training staff on new systems will be essential for smooth adoption and maximizing benefits.

In summary, the proposed solution adopts contemporary LAN and WAN technologies—structured cabling, VoIP, Wi-Fi 6, VLANs, MPLS/SD-WAN, and cloud integration—that work together to achieve a reliable, secure, and efficient network. This infrastructure will support remote work, enhance communication, streamline workflows, and prepare Sunshine Health Corporation to operate effectively into the future, meeting the needs of its new executive leadership and staff.

References

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  • Securing wireless networks: Best practices. (2022). Wi-Fi Alliance. https://www.wi-fi.org
  • Sunrise ICT. (2020). Structured cabling standards and practices. https://www.sunrise-ict.com
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