SOLUTIONS
Task 1 : Recommendation on suitable network typology
For smart solutions ,a small business with 20 employees ,a suitable network typology is
necessary to ensure efficiency,security and also not neglecting easy [Link] analyzing
and evaluating different types of network typologies icluding bus,ring, star and mesh, i
recommend a star typology. This is because of its reliability, easy mantainence ,security, cost
effectiveness, easy to troubleshoot,easy to setup and modify and so [Link] a star typology a
central device connects all other devices, providing a single point of control which necessitates
troubleshooting and upgrades making it an ideal network typology for a small business like
smart [Link], a star typology has got low cots and this is because it requires few
cables and network devices which then provides fast data transfer rate hence making it suitable
for a bussiness like smart solutions which needs moderate to high network [Link],
the failure of one device doesn't affect the entire network hence ensuring minimal
[Link], single point of control (the hub) ensures easy implementation of security
measures and also monitoring of network activity hence guaranteeing security and integrity of
bussiness data.
Task 2: Identifying the required hardware components and explaining their roles in the network.
Basing on the recommended network typology above(star typology), the following hardware
components are required:
[Link] Cisco RV320:
This is a type of device which acts as a central point among nodes and other devices connected to
the [Link] provides reliable internet access and routing capabilities,as it supports up to 20
devices. More to that, routers offers advanced security features such as firewall and VPN support
[Link] :Cisco SG300-10
A switch provides fast and reliable data transmission within the network and also through the
access control lists the above switch offers advanced security features which is of paramount
importance in the above network typology.
[Link]: Dell OptiPlex 3070
This provides a reliable and efficient platform for employees to access the network and it also
offers advancced security features such as hardware-based encyption and secure boot
[Link]:Dell PowerEdge
This one provides a reliable amd scalable platform for both the storage and management of
[Link] also offers advanced security features such as hardware RAID and secure boot .It also
supports upto 20 users making it the best for the above business which consists of 20 employees.
TASK 3: The security challenges associated with the network and measures to address them.
Based on the network design and hardware components above ,the following security challenges
are likely to be faced and the solutions are also provided for each challenge:
[Link] access:
This is a very significant problem for Smart Solutions, as it can lead to sensitive data being
stolen, manipulated and compromised and this can result in reputational damage, finnancial
lossand even legal liabilities. This happens when one gains access to to network without
permission or being noticed due to weak passwords and unsecured [Link] address the issue,
Smart Solutions can implement robust access control system such as regular password rotation,
role-based access control, Cisco(2020). This helps in ensuring that onlynauthorized personal has
access to the senistive data thereby minizing the risk of unauthorized access .
[Link] and viruses :
Malware and viruses are a significant threat to Smart Solutions`s network as they can disrupt
bussiness bussiness operations, and cause financial losses. Viruses and malware can enter the
network through various ways such as infected software downloads, email attachments and so
forth and this can spread rapidly infecting several devices and systems, AV-Test (2020).To
address this issue , the above business should implement antivirus and anti- malware solutions
such as installing and regularly updating antivirus on all [Link] can also be archieved by
email filtering to avoid malicious emails and also educatingg employees on safe computing
practices.
[Link] Breaches:
Data breaches are a critical concern for the above business as they can result in theft, loss of
sensitive data,financial records, unauthorized disclosure and others. Data breaches can occur as a
result of hacking , physical theft of devices and even human error ,Verizon (2020).To combat this
challenge, Smart Solutions should imlement robust data protection stratergy, including
encrypting sensitive data, introducing access controls and regularly monitoring the network for
suspicious [Link] will ensure security and business continuity.
[Link] of Service (DoS) attacks
Among the challenges likely to be faced after using the above network typology is Denial of
Service [Link] is a situation whereby an attacker attempts to make a computer or network
resource to be unavailable by overwhelming it with traffic or requests, Cisco (2022).This will
make the network unavailable to legitimate users and causing significant disruptions to business
[Link] can be solved by deploying network-based intrusion detection and prevention
system. This can also be be solved by configuring network devices to detect and block malicious
[Link], Smart Solutions can also develop incident response plan to havee a quick
response which will help in mitigating Denial of Service attacks, reducing the risk of damage
hence continuity of business.
TASK 4: How i would ensure ethical use of network by employees