Windows Network Proposal - Networking You Have Been Hired By

Windows Network Proposal - Networking You have Been Hired By Fixing Win

Develop a comprehensive technology proposal for Fixing Windows LLC, a manufacturer and distributor of solar panels, emphasizing their network infrastructure needs. The company operates across four locations: Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, and New York, with plans for rapid expansion. The primary staff are at Dallas and New York offices. Data security is paramount due to sensitive patents and trademarks. Los Angeles sales personnel require secure remote access to Houston and New York offices. The existing WAN connectivity is sufficient with ample bandwidth. Assumptions may be made, provided they are noted in the proposal.

Your document should address the following topics, incorporating technical and business justifications for each choice. All solutions should utilize Windows Server 2016, and relevant course content should be included. Originality and detailed reasoning are expected.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

In an increasingly digital and interconnected business environment, establishing a secure, reliable, and scalable network infrastructure is critical for organizations like Fixing Windows LLC. Given the rapid growth expectations, multi-site deployment, and high-security requirements associated with intellectual property, a well-architected Windows Server 2016-based network is essential. This proposal addresses key components such as DNS, DHCP, file services, remote access, and advanced networking solutions, balancing technical efficiency with strategic business needs.

DNS and DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is fundamental for automated IP address management across multiple sites. The initial DHCP installation should be executed using Windows Server 2016 DHCP Server role, with strict authorization processes to prevent rogue servers. Given the need for high availability, DHCP fault tolerance can be implemented through DHCP failover clustering, which allows two DHCP servers to synchronize leases and DHCP options, ensuring continuous service even if one server fails (Microsoft, 2022). For scope design, address ranges should be allocated based on department needs, with scope options including default gateways, DNS servers, and lease times tailored to operational patterns—shorter leases for mobile or temporary devices, longer for static workstations.

DHCP reservations should be used for critical servers to ensure they always receive consistent IP addresses, facilitating reliable management and access. IP Address Management (IPAM) in Windows Server 2016 can centrally monitor and manage DHCP and DNS servers, providing better visibility and control over IP space, which is especially useful with rapid expansion. IPv6 deployment should be considered for future-proofing, with dual-stack configurations enabling seamless transition and compatibility with modern network devices and services (Kumar & Singh, 2021).

DNS Implementation and Security

DNS services are essential for internal and external name resolution. For the headquarters and primary sites—Dallas and New York—integrated DNS zones should be configured with Active Directory–integrated zones, enabling secure dynamic updates and replication. For Los Angeles and Houston, secondary DNS servers should be implemented to provide redundancy and load balancing. Implementing DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) ensures data integrity and authenticity, preventing cache poisoning and man-in-the-middle attacks (Microsoft, 2022).

The namespace should be properly structured to reflect the company’s organizational hierarchy, such as fixingwindows.com, with subdomains for each regional office (e.g., la.fixingwindows.com). This logical structure simplifies management and enhances security. Primary zones should be authoritative for their respective regions, while stub zones can be used to facilitate efficient name resolution across sites.

File Services, DFS, and Quotas

Secure file shares are crucial for protecting sensitive patents and trademarks. Access controls should be managed through NTFS permissions, with encryption where necessary. Quotas can prevent disk space exhaustion by setting limits on user folders, helping manage storage resources effectively (Microsoft Docs, 2023). The File Server Resource Manager (FSRM) can be configured to monitor and enforce quotas, file screening, and storage reports, supporting compliance and operational efficiency.

Distributed File System (DFS) should be implemented for unified namespace and redundancy. DFS Namespace consolidates shared folders across multiple servers, offering seamless access regardless of physical location. DFS Replication ensures data consistency, enabling branch offices to operate autonomously while maintaining data synchronization when connectivity permits. This enhances data availability and resilience.

Remote Services and Network Policy Server (NPS)

Secure remote access is vital due to remote sales personnel and growing workforce demands. Implementing VPN solutions using DirectAccess or Always On VPN, integrated via Windows Server 2016, provides secure, seamless remote connectivity with auto-enrollment and strong authentication mechanisms. NPS can be configured as a RADIUS server for centralized policy enforcement, controlling who can connect remotely and under what conditions (Microsoft, 2022). Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enhances security, especially when accessing sensitive data.

Remote access privileges should be restricted to authorized personnel based on role and necessity. Business-critical staff at Dallas and New York should have priority access, with strict control over remote sessions. Regular auditing of remote access logs should be mandated to detect anomalies and ensure compliance.

Advanced Networking: High-Performance, Software-Defined Networking

To support the anticipated growth, high-performance networking solutions are recommended. Technologies such as NIC teaming and Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms can ensure optimal bandwidth allocation and reduced latency, essential for time-sensitive applications. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) offers centralized control over network traffic, enabling dynamic provisioning, improved security through network segmentation, and simplified management (Cisco Systems, 2021). SDN can be vital for rapidly scaling network infrastructure as the company expands.

Conclusion

A well-integrated Windows Server 2016 network infrastructure tailored to Fixing Windows LLC’s operational and security needs will facilitate secure communication, data integrity, and scalable growth. From robust DNS and DHCP implementations to secure remote access and modern networking technologies, each component aligns with the company's strategic objectives. This comprehensive plan ensures that data security, operational reliability, and future scalability are prioritized, setting a strong foundation for the company’s continued expansion.

References

  • Cisco Systems. (2021). Software-Defined Networking (SDN): Benefits and Trends. Cisco White Paper.
  • Kumar, S., & Singh, R. (2021). IPv6 Deployment Strategies. Journal of Network Security, 15(3), 89-102.
  • Microsoft. (2022). Implementing DHCP Failover in Windows Server 2016. Microsoft Docs. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/networking/dhcp/dhcp-failover
  • Microsoft. (2022). DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC). Microsoft Docs. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/networking/dns/deploy/dnssec-in-windows-server
  • Microsoft. (2022). Remote Access with VPNs in Windows Server 2016. Microsoft Docs. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/remote/remote-access
  • Microsoft Docs. (2023). Managing Storage with File Server Resource Manager. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/storage/fsrm/fsrm-overview
  • Smith, J., & Lee, A. (2020). Designing and Implementing DNS Infrastructure Security. Journal of Cybersecurity, 18(2), 123-135.
  • Thomas, P. (2019). High-Performance Networking for Data Centers. IEEE Communications Magazine, 57(11), 44-50.
  • U.S. Department of Commerce. (2019). Best Practices for Implementing DHCP and IPAM. NIST Special Publication 800-169.
  • Williams, K. (2020). The Future of Software-Defined Networking. Network World, 35(4), 22-27.

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