I need to design a fully switched network for a 3-story retail building. Management on second floor (36 workstations), Sales on the 1st floor (20 workstations) and warehouse in the basement (35 workstations). My SOW and Network diagrams must consist of the physical layout, network operating systems, application software, TCP/IP architecture, servers, switches, routers, and all workstations and printers. We also need to make sure to include productivity software, client operating systems, specific software for the various departments such as anti-virus software, and uninterruptible power supplies. We must make sure there are sufficient numbers and types of servers, server racks, cabling, connections, switches and routers with a CSU/DSU. The design should allow for a 10% growth in the number of employees on the network. HELP!!! I don't even know where to begin!!
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I don't know what type of network or topology to use or which hardware and software would be good. I'm unsure about pretty much everything and I don't know how to set this whole thing up. I need 3 floor plans
Designing a fully switched network for a 3-story retail building can be a complex task, but I'll guide you through the process step by step.
1. Determine the requirements:
- Identify the number of workstations and printers on each floor.
- Calculate the total number of workstations and printers, considering a 10% growth.
- Define the specific software needed for each department (e.g., management, sales, warehouse).
- Decide on the necessary network operating systems, application software, and client operating systems.
- Consider any additional requirements such as anti-virus software and uninterruptible power supplies.
2. Create the physical layout:
- Start by drawing a diagram of the building, indicating each floor and their respective departments.
- Identify the placement of workstations, printers, servers, switches, routers, and server racks.
- Determine the cabling routes and connections between devices.
- Consider the location of power outlets and any environmental factors affecting device placement.
3. Choose the TCP/IP architecture:
- Decide whether to use IPv4 or IPv6 addressing.
- Plan the IP address allocation based on the number of devices and potential growth.
- Define the subnetting scheme for each floor and department.
4. Design the network infrastructure:
- Select switches and routers suitable for your requirements.
- Determine the number of ports required on each switch to accommodate workstations and printers.
- Consider the need for VLANs to segregate network traffic between departments.
- Evaluate the need for a CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit) for connectivity.
5. Determine the server requirements:
- Identify the necessary servers based on departmental requirements.
- Consider virtualization options if appropriate.
- Determine the number of server racks required based on the number of servers and their sizes.
6. Plan the connectivity:
- Identify the cabling requirements for network connections (e.g., Ethernet cables, fiber optic cables).
- Decide on the types of connectors and termination points.
- Determine the cable pathways and cable management solutions.
7. Consider redundancy and fault tolerance:
- Explore options for redundant power supplies, network links, and server configurations.
- Evaluate the need for backup and disaster recovery solutions.
8. Document the design:
- Create a detailed SOW (Statement of Work) document outlining the project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
- Generate network diagrams representing the physical layout, connections, and IP addressing.
Remember, it's important to collaborate with the IT department or a network engineer to ensure your design aligns with industry best practices and meets the specific needs of your retail building.