UNIT: NETWORK DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT (Level
6)
ELEMENT 1: DESIGN COMPUTER NETWORK
1.1 User Needs Collection
User needs collection is the process of identifying, gathering, and understanding the
requirements of users and the organization before designing a computer network. A good
network design must be based on real user needs, not assumptions.
1.1.1 Introduction to Computer Networking
[Link] Definition of a Computer Network
A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that communicate
and share resources such as data, applications, printers, and internet connections using
communication media and protocols.
Key purposes of computer networks:
Resource sharing (files, printers, applications)
Communication (email, messaging, video conferencing)
Centralized management and security
Data backup and reliability
Identification of Computer Components and Ports
Computer networking involves various hardware components and ports, including:
Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables a computer to connect to a network
Ethernet ports (RJ45): Used for wired network connections
USB ports: Used for modems, adapters, and peripherals
Fiber ports (SFP/SFP+): Used for high-speed fiber connections
1.1.2 Computer Network Types
Computer networks are classified based on geographical coverage and purpose.
[Link] Local Area Network (LAN)
Covers a small geographical area such as an office, school, or building
High data transfer speed
Owned and managed by one organization
Uses Ethernet and Wi-Fi technologies
[Link] Wide Area Network (WAN)
Covers large geographical areas (countries or continents)
Connects multiple LANs
Uses leased lines, fiber optics, satellites, or cellular networks
Example: The Internet
[Link] Personal Area Network (PAN)
Very small network around an individual
Uses Bluetooth, infrared, or USB
Example: Phone connected to laptop via Bluetooth
[Link] Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Covers a city or large campus
Larger than LAN but smaller than WAN
Example: City-wide fiber network
1.1.3 Network Topologies
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of network devices.
[Link] Star Topology
All devices connect to a central switch or hub
Easy to manage and troubleshoot
Failure of one cable does not affect others
Failure of the central device affects the whole network
[Link] Ring Topology
Devices are connected in a circular manner
Data travels in one direction
Failure of one device can affect the entire network
[Link] Mesh Topology
Devices are interconnected with multiple paths
High reliability and redundancy
Expensive and complex to implement
[Link] Hybrid Topology
Combination of two or more topologies
Common in large organizations
Flexible and scalable
[Link] Point-to-Point Topology
Direct connection between two devices
Simple and fast
Common in WAN links
1.1.4 Components of a Computer Network
[Link] Switches and Hubs
Hub: Broadcasts data to all ports (obsolete)
Switch: Sends data only to the intended device using MAC addresses
[Link] Routers
Connect different networks
Use IP addresses to route data
Provide internet connectivity
[Link] Ports
Physical and logical connection points
Examples: Ethernet ports, console ports
[Link] Computers
End-user devices (clients and servers)
[Link] Transmission Media
Guided media: Twisted pair, coaxial cable, fiber optic
Unguided media: Wireless (Wi-Fi, radio waves)
1.1.5 Computer Network User Requirements / Needs
[Link] User Requirements Identification
This involves identifying:
Number of users
Types of applications used
Security needs
Network performance expectations
[Link] User Requirements Analysis
Analyze collected data
Identify bandwidth, scalability, and security needs
Identify constraints such as budget and environment
[Link] User Requirements Documentation
Clearly document all requirements
Use diagrams, tables, and written descriptions
Acts as a reference during implementation
1.2 Physical Network Design Development
Physical network design defines the actual hardware layout.
Includes:
Cable routes
Device locations
Network racks and cabinets
Power and cooling requirements
1.3 Logical Network Design Development
Logical design focuses on how data flows within the network.
Includes:
IP addressing schemes
VLANs
Routing protocols
Network security policies
1.4 Computer Network Design
1.4.1 Network Design Overview
Network design is a structured process of planning a network to meet user and organizational
needs.
1.4.2 Network Design Methodology
[Link] Hierarchical Network Design
Divides network into layers: Core, Distribution, Access
Improves scalability and manageability
[Link] Flat Network
Simple design with minimal segmentation
Suitable for small networks
1.4.3 Types of Computer Network Sites
Greenfield: New site with no existing network
Brownfield: Existing network environment
1.4.4 Network Site Preparation
[Link] Network Floor Plan Design
Shows layout of rooms, devices, and cabling
[Link] Data and Access Points
Placement of switches, access points, and outlets
1.4.5 Implement Documented User Requirements
Ensure design matches user needs
Validate against documented requirements
1.4.6 Fundamental Design Goals
[Link] Scalability
Ability to expand the network without redesign
[Link] Availability
Network uptime and reliability
[Link] Security
Protection of data and resources
[Link] Manageability
Ease of monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance
RECOMMENDED REFERENCE BOOKS
1. Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach – James F. Kurose & Keith W. Ross
2. Data Communications and Networking – Behrouz A. Forouzan
3. Networking Fundamentals – Cisco Networking Academy
4. Network+ Guide to Networks – Jill West, Tamara Dean