Learning Objectives
One thing that we have studied throughout the semester is LAN switching, the benefits and also how to implement this technology. Specifically, we learned how to segment a LAN using bridges, routers, and switches. We took this knowledge into consideration while designing our LAN, making careful decisions about where to place our router and switches. We decided against using bridges because…well, they fade to dust compared to switches.
We also took speed into consideration, implementing a design microsegmented by switches, which provide for a full-duplex Ethernet environment, as well as virtually eliminating collisions. With the addition of Fast Ethernet connections to the classrooms, we ensured that no student would ever loose a match of Unreal Tournament 2003 because “Dude, my lag sucks”. Oh yeah, they would also have fast connection to any applications located on the server, which would enabled them to finish homework faster.
By adding 2 Intermediate Distribution Centers, we were able to stay well within all Fast Ethernet guidelines and distance limitations.
Additionally, our knowledge and experience in these four crucial areas increased:
1. Gather Users' Requirements and Expectations - The information should include the organization history and current project, project grounds, operating policies and management procedures, office system and produces, and the viewpoints of the people using the LAN.
2. The second step is to Analyzing the Requirements of the network and the users. You must take steps to ensure that the information requirements of the organization and its workers are met.
3. The third is the Availability and Network traffic, which measures the usefulness of the network. Usefulness can be based on factors like availability, throughput, response time, and access to resources.
4. The final step is to Design the Network Topology. After determining the overall requirements of the network you make an overall view of a LAN Topology that will satisfy the users requirements.
Having compared and contrasted the various routing protocols, we decided to select Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP) as out routing protocol because of its use of multiple metrics for best path selection. IGRP was created by CISCO as a replacement for Routing Information Protocol (RIP). Like RIP, IGRP is a distance-vector interior routing protocol, which calls for a router to send all or a part of their routing table to each of there neighbors in a update. However, unlike RIP, IGRP uses metrics like network delay, bandwidth, reliability, and load in order to make routing decision. Also, the implementation of IGRP requires the designation of an Autonomous System (AS) number. An AS is a collection of networks under common administration, sharing a common routing strategy.
In order to meet the security requirements, we developed three Access Control Lists (ACLs) and placed them on the various interfaces of the school’s router. ACLs provide basic traffic filtering capabilities, like blocking Internet traffic. ACLs are also used to either deny or grant access to a part of a network and can act similar to a firewall. As such, ACLs provide a basic level of security for network access.
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