Scenario: Rocky Mountain Corporation RMC Has Relocated

Scenario Rocky Mountain Corporation Rmc Has Relocated To a New Buildi

Scenario Rocky Mountain Corporation (RMC) has relocated to a new building that was previously wired and set up for a local area network (LAN). The company implemented a 50-user client/server-based wireless network, using WPA in which all printers, folders, and other resources are shared; everyone has access to everything and there is no security outside of the defaults that were in place when the system was set up. You have been hired to secure the RMC network and ensure that the company has a properly designed network that allows for future growth (500 users in 12 months) and for the highest levels of security to protect against internal and external attacks. RMC has scheduled a meeting with its key executives and you in order to provide you with any additional information you may need.

Paper For Above instruction

In response to the scenario of Rocky Mountain Corporation’s relocation and the subsequent need for a secure, scalable, and efficient network, this proposal offers a comprehensive plan divided into three critical sections: network topology and devices, IP infrastructure and remote access, and security enhancements. Each part is designed to address current needs while anticipating future growth and security threats, aligning with best practices and industry standards.

Section 1: Network Topology and Devices

The foundation of RMC’s new network should be a structured, scalable topology that supports both current operations and future expansion to accommodate 500 users within a year. A hierarchical star topology is recommended, which combines the simplicity of star layout with scalability, reliability, and ease of management. In this setup, core switches connect to distribution switches that, in turn, connect to access layer switches handing individual endpoints like workstations, printers, and servers.

Internal network devices should include managed Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches at the distribution layer to enable VLAN segmentation, reduce broadcast domains, and improve performance and security. At the core, high-capacity fiber optic switches provide backbone connectivity, ensuring fast data transfer and redundancy. For external connectivity, a secure perimeter firewall with Intrusion Detection and Prevention systems (IDPS) is essential to monitor and block malicious traffic.

Wireless connectivity is critical for modern flexibility. Implementing enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 6 access points will ensure high throughput and support for increased user devices, reducing latency and enhancing user experience. All wireless devices should leverage WPA3 encryption, the latest security standard, for stronger data protection compared to WPA2.

Cryptography method employed should include Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256-bit encryption, which is widely regarded as secure for protecting sensitive data during transmission and storage. This encryption can be implemented across wireless networks (WPA3), VPN connections, and data at rest.

Regarding network protocols, the company should adopt TCP/IP as the fundamental protocol suite, with specific protocols serving various purposes: SMB (Server Message Block) for file sharing, HTTPS for secure browsing and remote management, and VPN protocols like IPsec or SSL/TLS for remote access. These protocols facilitate resource sharing, internet access, and secure remote operations, aligning with modern network standards.

Cost estimates for the topology include network equipment (managed switches, wireless access points, firewalls), estimated around $50,000, considering enterprise-grade devices from reputable vendors like Cisco or Juniper, plus installation and configuration costs. Budgeting for future expansion includes scalable switches, possibly modular, and cloud management services for centralized control.

Section 2: IP Infrastructure and Remote Access

Designing a flexible IP address scheme is vital for accommodating growth. A dual approach combining static and DHCP-managed IP addresses offers stability and flexibility. The core network should employ a Class B private IP range, such as 172.16.0.0/12, subdivided with VLANs to separate departmental traffic and optimize security.

DHCP servers should dynamically assign IPs within predetermined ranges, with reservations for critical servers and network infrastructure devices to ensure consistent addressing. Static IPs are assigned to essential hardware, including routers, switches, and core servers, for easier management and troubleshooting.

Implementing an IP management strategy involves segmenting the network into subnets aligned with VLANs, improving security and traffic management. For example, the finance department might be on 172.16.1.0/24, HR on 172.16.2.0/24, and so forth, facilitating policy enforcement and traffic isolation.

Remote access must be secure to prevent unauthorized entry. Deploying a VPN solution based on SSL/TLS (such as Cisco AnyConnect or Palo Alto GlobalProtect) ensures encrypted tunnels for remote users. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be mandated for all remote sessions. The VPN gateway should reside behind the perimeter firewall, with strict access controls and logging to monitor usage.

This remote access plan offers both employees and trusted vendors a secure method to access company resources, with bandwidth considerations and user authentication rigor. Regular audits and updates to remote access policies will ensure ongoing security and efficiency.

Section 3: Security Measures

Transforming the existing basic security into a comprehensive security posture involves multiple layers. A critical step is establishing a robust access control policy. This policy should enforce strong password requirements—minimum length of 12 characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters—and mandate password changes every 60 days, with history enforcement to prevent reuse.

Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) ensures users only access data and systems necessary for their roles. Strict user account management, including regular reviews and disabling inactive accounts, limits internal threats.

Defense against malware and attacks requires advanced endpoint protection, including anti-malware solutions with real-time scanning, behavior analysis, and automatic updates. Network-based Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS), like Snort or Suricata, should be deployed at strategic points to detect suspicious activities.

Employing a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system centralizes logs and event data, facilitating rapid threat detection and incident response. Regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing should be scheduled to identify weaknesses proactively.

Furthermore, awareness training for employees on phishing, social engineering, and safe computing practices significantly reduces the risk of successful attacks. Firewalls must be configured with strict policies, including application-layer filtering, to block malicious traffic and unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, software patches and firmware updates must be rigorously maintained to address known vulnerabilities.

Implementing network segmentation minimizes the damage caused by potential breaches. For example, separating guest Wi-Fi from the corporate LAN and creating dedicated subnets for sensitive data provides isolated environments that limit threat spread.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To ensure RMC’s new network is robust, scalable, and secure, it is essential to adopt a layered security approach combined with robust infrastructure design. Employing a hierarchical star topology with enterprise-grade devices supports future growth and operational resilience. A hybrid IP structure with VLAN segmentation and secure VPN remote access lays a foundation for flexible, safe connectivity. Finally, comprehensive security policies encompassing password complexity, endpoint protection, user awareness, and continuous monitoring are paramount in safeguarding against evolving internal and external threats.

Ongoing evaluation, staff training, and adherence to industry standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST guidelines will sustain a resilient security posture, aligning RMC’s network with best practices and ensuring long-term operational success.

References

• Cisco. (2022). Cisco Enterprise Network Design Guidelines. Cisco Systems.
• NIST. (2021). Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. National Institute of Standards and Technology.
• Stallings, W. (2018). Foundations of Modern Networking: The Protocols, Security, and Management of the Internet. Addison-Wesley.
• Garfinkel, S., & Spafford, G. (2019). Practical UNIX and Internet Security. O'Reilly Media.
• Mitnick, K. D., & Simon, W. L. (2011). The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element of Security. Wiley.
• Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). (2023). Secure Remote Access Guidelines. CISA Publications.
• Portnoy, R. (2020). Network Security Essentials. John Wiley & Sons.
• ISO/IEC 27001:2013. Information Security Management Systems — Requirements.
• Simmons, G. J. (2010). Network Security: Private Communication in a Public World. Pearson Education.
• Vacca, J. R. (2014). Computer and Information Security Handbook. Elsevier.