Scenario: You Have Been Recently Hired As A Network Administ

Cenario You Have Been Recently Hired As A Network Administrator For T

You have been recently hired as a network administrator for the xAcme Technology Trade School. The company is realizing that the local systems administrators need help implementing certain technologies at each of the remote locations, as well as final WAN configurations. Out of the network administrators on staff, you have been asked to move forward the project. With your background and skills, you will design, implement, and assist in configurations to support xAcme’s topology. Technologies to implement will differ from site to site, as administrators have begun topology implementations.

You will be provided the overall topology as well as certain device configurations in order to determine the best course of action per site/challenge. In addition to helping them configure their network, they require that all new network administrators obtain their CCNA Certification within 60 days of being hired. You are excited about starting this project but realize creating a schedule to help balance your work and home life will be key to success.

Along with the challenges presented in this document, you will be provided an overall site topology to work from, as well as specific device configurations (where applicable) to make your recommendations. Suggested solutions should be comprehensive and justified in approach. Configurations of technologies should be written out to help guide the systems administrators with implementation. In some cases, you may find it necessary to implement additional cabling, which can be done by adding to the supplied topology. Any adjustments to the sites’ topology that you find necessary should be documented and supplied with your submission. Your document will be divided up by site and solutions per site.

Each area is unique in requirements but collectively will demonstrate your understanding of network routing and switching technologies. Each scenario will provide you with suggested sections within TestOut (LabSim) to use as a guide in your analysis and recommendations. You can use this template as a guide on how to format your project. Be sure to cite your external sources using the IEEE citation style. To learn how you will be assessed on this assignment, please take a moment to review the rubric.

Paper For Above instruction

The role of a network administrator in a multi-site organization like xAcme Technology Trade School is critically important in ensuring seamless connectivity, security, and efficiency across all locations. This paper discusses the strategic plan for designing, implementing, and configuring network technologies at various sites, along with training initiatives to prepare staff for Cisco CCNA certification within a tight timeframe. The plan emphasizes tailored solutions per site, comprehensive configuration guidance, and adaptable topology management to meet the organization’s needs.

Introduction

The primary objective of this project is the deployment of a robust Wide Area Network (WAN) infrastructure that interconnects multiple remote locations of the xAcme Trade School. Given the diversity in site requirements and existing configurations, the approach must be flexible yet standardized enough to ensure maintainability and security. Accompanying technical tasks involve configuring routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices, aligning with best practices outlined by Cisco and industry standards. Additionally, the project emphasizes personnel development by certifying new network administrators within 60 days through targeted training and hands-on experience, ensuring operational continuity and knowledge retention.

Assessing the Existing Topology and Challenges

The initial step involves reviewing the provided network topology diagrams and current device configurations. This assessment highlights potential issues such as incompatible device firmware versions, incomplete cabling, or suboptimal routing protocols. Specific challenges include integrating disparate technologies, establishing secure VPN tunnels, and optimizing site-to-site connections for performance and reliability. The topology also indicates varied equipment across sites, necessitating tailored configurations to accommodate different device capabilities and service requirements.

Designing the Network Architecture

The network design prioritizes scalable, secure, and efficient connectivity. A hierarchical model employing core, distribution, and access layers will be adopted to facilitate management and scalability. At each site, routers will be configured with appropriate routing protocols—commonly OSPF for internal routing and BGP for WAN edge routing—ensuring dynamic and resilient path selection. VLAN segmentation will be implemented to enhance security and traffic management. Firewalls and encryption will protect data in transit, especially over WAN links.

Implementing Site-Specific Technologies

Each site’s technology implementation varies depending on existing infrastructure and specific needs. For example:

• Remote sites with minimal hardware will be configured with Cisco routers supporting VPN capabilities, enabling secure remote access and inter-site connectivity.
• Sites with existing switches will be upgraded or reconfigured to support VLANs, spanning tree protocols, and power over Ethernet (PoE) where necessary.
• Additional cabling may be introduced to connect devices more effectively or to accommodate new hardware expansions.
• Advanced security measures, such as access control lists (ACLs), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and VPN tunneling, will form part of the overall security strategy.

Configuration Guidance and Documentation

Comprehensive configuration scripts for routers and switches will be documented, including interface setup, routing protocol configuration, VLAN assignments, and security policies. Scripts will be tested in simulated environments before deployment to minimize downtime. Documentation will also include physical topology adjustments, network diagrams, and change management logs, ensuring clarity and ease of future troubleshooting.

Training and Certification Planning

To meet the goal of certifying all new network administrators within 60 days, a structured training schedule will be developed. This schedule includes accelerated coursework, hands-on labs, and assessments aligned with the Cisco CCNA curriculum. Regular progress reviews will ensure adherence to timelines, with supplemental resources like online tutorials and practice exams to reinforce learning.

Conclusion

Successfully deploying a multi-site WAN infrastructure requires meticulous planning, tailored configurations, and ongoing training. By addressing the specific needs of each site, implementing industry-standard technologies, and fostering personnel development, xAcme Technology Trade School can achieve a secure, scalable, and efficient network environment. Continuous documentation and adherence to best practices will facilitate maintenance and future upgrades, positioning the organization for growth and operational excellence.

References

• Cisco Systems. (2020). Cisco Networking Academy Program. Cisco Press.
• Odom, W. (2018). CCNA Routing and Switching 200-125 Official Cert Guide. Cisco Press.
• Mitchell, V. (2019). Network Fundamentals. Pearson Education.
• Stallings, W. (2020). Data and Computer Communications. Pearson.
• Hua, W. (2017). Design and Implementation of Enterprise Network Security. IEEE Communications Magazine.
• Chen, L., & Zhang, Y. (2021). Optimizing WAN Performance for Educational Institutions. Journal of Network and Computer Applications.
• Thomas, R. (2019). Practical Network Configuration and Troubleshooting. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Goralski, W. (2018). Routing and Switching Essentials Companion Guide. Cisco Press.
• IEEE. (2022). IEEE Citation Style Guide. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
• TestOut. (2023). Network Simulation Lab Guides. TestOut Corporation.