You have been contracted to build a network for

a multimedia development firm that currently
uses a 10-Mbps Ethernet network. The company
requires a high-bandwidth network for the multimedia
team, which constantly views and manipulates
large files across the network. The
company is expecting moderate growth. You are
to come up with a solution to support the highbandwidth
applications and growth potential of
this company.
Required result:
�¡ Increase network bandwidth.
Optional result:
�¡ Support future growth.
�¡ Improve server response time.
Proposed solution:
�¡ Install CAT 5 UTP cable in a star topology
with the existing hub.
�¡ Upgrade the workstation�fs adapter cards to
support 100 Mbps.
�¡ Increase the amount of RAM in the server.

The proposed solution to increase network bandwidth and support the high-bandwidth applications and growth potential of the multimedia development firm includes the following steps:

1. Install CAT 5 UTP cable in a star topology with the existing hub: This step involves upgrading the existing cabling infrastructure to CAT 5 UTP cable, which can support higher bandwidth compared to the current 10-Mbps Ethernet network. The star topology ensures better network performance and scalability.

To implement this step, you need to:

- Assess the existing cabling infrastructure and determine the feasibility of upgrading to CAT 5 UTP cable.
- Make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment for cable installation.
- Plan the cable layout and ensure proper cable management.
- Connect the CAT 5 UTP cables from each workstation to the central hub in a star-shaped configuration.

2. Upgrade the workstation adapter cards to support 100 Mbps: Since the company requires higher network bandwidth for its multimedia team, upgrading the workstation adapter cards to support 100 Mbps Ethernet is recommended. This will allow faster data transfer between workstations and the network.

To implement this step, you need to:

- Identify the types of adapter cards currently used in the workstations.
- Research and select compatible adapter cards that support 100 Mbps Ethernet.
- Install the new adapter cards in the workstations, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Verify the proper functioning of the upgraded adapter cards.

3. Increase the amount of RAM in the server: To improve overall server performance and response time, increasing the amount of RAM in the server is suggested. This will provide more memory for the server to handle multiple concurrent requests and manipulate large files more efficiently.

To implement this step, you need to:

- Identify the server model and its current RAM capacity.
- Determine the maximum supported RAM capacity for the server.
- Purchase compatible RAM modules to increase the server's RAM capacity.
- Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to install the new RAM modules in the server.
- Verify that the server recognizes the new RAM and is functioning properly.

Optional steps that can be considered to support future growth include:

- Upgrading the hub to a switch: A switch provides better performance and scalability compared to a hub. It can effectively handle network traffic in a larger network and support future growth.
- Implementing network monitoring and management tools: These tools can help monitor network performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize the network for better efficiency. They can also provide insights into network usage patterns and aid in planning for future growth.

By following these steps, you should be able to increase the network bandwidth, support future growth, and improve server response time for the multimedia development firm.