Trine University Network Design Proposal
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swethaTrine University Network Design Proposal
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Powered by AIThe chosen devices like Cisco ASA 5506-X Firewalls ($500-$700), Cisco ISR 4431 Routers ($3000-$4200), and Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series Switches ($5500 each) offer robust features such as VLAN support, high throughput, and advanced security functions. These features ensure that the network can handle current demands and scale efficiently for future expansion. While these devices are costly, their long-term benefits in providing stable, secure, and scalable networking make them cost-effective investments .
Primary network devices used include Firewalls (Cisco ASA 5506-X) providing perimeter security and threat protection; Routers (Cisco ISR 4431) enabling Layer 3 routing and VLAN interconnectivity; Switches (Cisco Catalyst 9300) supporting VLANs, routing, and PoE; and Servers handling DNS, DHCP, file storage, and applications essential for network and operational management .
The Cisco Catalyst 2960 X Series access points, with their Layer 2 functionality and 24 or 48 ports, offer reliable and secure connectivity within departments, supporting data-intensive applications and maintaining consistent network performance. Their capability to handle up to 1Gbps ensures minimal network congestion, although their Layer 2 nature may limit advanced functions like routing .
Windows Server 2022, used for DNS/DHCP services, streamlines IP management and hostname resolution, enhancing network efficiency by automating address assignments. Dell PowerEdge R540 servers, equipped with Dual Intel Xeon CPUs, substantial RAM, and storage, enable handling of large data loads and the hosting of various internal applications, thereby optimizing departmental workflows and ensuring consistent application performance .
Cisco Meraki MR44 wireless access points, priced at $1000, offer benefits such as support for WiFi 6, which provides faster speeds and efficiency, especially in high-density environments. However, challenges may include initial capital investment, complexity in management, and potential need for additional configuration and integration with existing network security features .
With a cost of $6,000 per unit, Dell PowerEdge R540 servers promise high performance with Dual Intel Xeon CPUs, 128 GB RAM, and 4 TB storage, suitable for extensive file and application hosting. They offer robust performance capabilities and ensure efficient handling of departmental databases and applications, justifying the cost through their ability to sustain heavy workloads and support network operations .
VLANs contribute to security and performance by enabling logical segmentation of the network, which isolates departmental traffic for better management and reduced collision domains, enhancing security by restricting unauthorized access. VLAN configuration aids in efficient traffic management, leading to improved network performance through easier troubleshooting and streamlined data flow .
Using Class B private address space (172.16.0.0/16) allows for substantial IP address allocations per department, providing flexibility and scalability essential for accommodating potential future growth and changes without reconfiguring the entire network. This choice supports improved traffic isolation and management across academic and management departments .
VLAN tagging in Trine University's network allows for segregating network traffic at the switch level by associating ports with specific VLANs. This segregation is crucial for enhancing security as it limits broadcast domains, reduces the risk of unauthorized data access, and simplifies the monitoring and management of network traffic by restricting it to relevant segments .
Scalability is ensured by using VLANs for departmental segmentation, which allows for easier adjustments and additions in the network. The use of Class B IP address space accommodates growth without requiring major overhauls. The robust Cisco Catalyst 9300 switches and ISR 4431 routers support high data throughput and future upgrades, ensuring that the infrastructure can expand to meet increased demands .