arranged in a triangle with each building about 500 meters apart. Previously, these buildings were wired with CAT3 UTP running 10BaseT Ethernet. The IT director had mandated that your company will need to use 1000 Mbps Ethernet to the desktop. Define a comprehensive network architecture that fulfills the director’s requirements and allows for future growth.
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To define a comprehensive network architecture that fulfills the director's requirements and allows for future growth, we need to consider several factors:
1. Network Infrastructure: Start by evaluating the existing network infrastructure and determine if it can support the desired upgrade to 1000 Mbps Ethernet. CAT3 UTP is not suitable for this requirement, so you will need to replace the existing wiring with a higher-grade Ethernet cable, such as CAT5e or CAT6.
2. Network Layout: Given that the buildings are arranged in a triangle, you can employ a star or mesh network topology. In a star topology, each building is directly connected to a central point, usually a network switch, while in a mesh topology, every building is connected to every other building. Consider factors like cost, scalability, and maintenance in selecting the appropriate topology.
3. Network Switches: You will need network switches capable of supporting 1000 Mbps Ethernet. Install switches at each building's central point to provide connectivity to the desktops and other network devices. Ensure that the switches have sufficient ports to accommodate the number of devices in each building and allow for future growth.
4. Network Backbone: To handle the increased network speed, consider deploying a fiber optic backbone network that connects the switches in each building. Fiber optic cables offer higher bandwidth, lower latency, and longer distance capabilities than copper cables. This backbone will provide fast inter-building communication and facilitate data exchange between buildings.
5. Network Security: Implement appropriate security measures to protect sensitive data and secure the network infrastructure. This may include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). Additionally, consider implementing VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) to segregate network traffic and enforce security policies.
6. Wireless Network: Consider deploying a wireless network in each building to provide flexibility and mobility for devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Use wireless access points capable of supporting the desired network speed and security standards. Ensure proper coverage and manage interference in each building.
7. Network Management: Implement network management systems and protocols to monitor and manage the network efficiently. This includes tools for network monitoring, configuration management, performance monitoring, and troubleshooting.
8. Future Growth: Plan for future growth by ensuring scalability in the network architecture. Account for potential increases in the number of devices, data traffic, and network services. Consider factors like port density and expandability options when selecting network switches and equipment.
Remember to consult with network professionals or architects who can assess the specific requirements and provide a tailored network architecture plan for your situation.