Mini Case 1 - Smith, Smith, Smith, and Smith

Smith, Smith and Smiths concerns are well founded, because a poorly designed network can cripple a company. Researching a viable solution before the building is constructed will foster a solid infrastructure and promote a solid Local Area Network. We will discuss the avenues that are available and provide a recommended solution.

As the company considers the building structure the path of the network cables and wireless backbones should be considered in relation to the electron emitting sources to reduce errors on the network (line noise, white noise, etc.) (JERRY FITZGERALD, 2009). I would suggest a backbone network using a star topology with main device at the ground floor then connecting to the next floor and so on. This method would connect all LAN's with the same uplink and is easily managed.

Also, equipment such as switches & routers should be used so that routing is done quickly and improved performance can be achieved. Trying to use the least number of back bone networks with the switch circuit backbone network will optimized then. By using the latest various error detection techniques (Cyclical Redundancy Check) and checking the network & network devices like hubs, routers regularly should be suffice to check for errors and correct them. (JERRY FITZGERALD, Business Data Communications and Networking, 2009)

Trying to use same vendor products (i.e. CISCO, Dell, etc.) for their networking connections is ideal, but regardless the tool most needed is one to assist in designing and implementation of the network. One such tool is Net Mapper Network diagramming which can combine the combine different equipment can make the network diagramming successful. NetMapper's detailed physical and logical network diagrams help pinpoint configuration and connectivity issues quickly with direct insights into configurations and routing views. (OPNET Technologies, Inc, 2012)

In conclusion when designing a corporate network, we try to standardize on few different types of devices, as opposed to using different types of switches in every wiring closet. Although, if all your equipment is from the same manufacturer this could simplify configuration and troubleshooting. The solution put forward is best recommended to the board as is.

References

JERRY FITZGERALD, A. D. (2009). Business Data Communications and Networking. In J. F. Associates, Business Data Communications and Networking, 10th Edition (p. 126). Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

JERRY FITZGERALD, A. D. (2009). Business Data Communications and Networking. In J. F. Associates, Business Data Communications and Networking, 10th Edition (p. 127). Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

OPNET Technologies, Inc. (2012). NetMapperAutomated up to date Diagramming. Retrieved March 15, 2012, from