Basic design of a local area network for small businesses

Abstract

This thesis envisages the design of a local area network (LAN) by adopting a design model that will be suitable for small businesses with less than 20 users using the Windows operating system. The concept of hierarchical design was adopted in building the network as compared to other network design models, hierarchical models was easier to managed, expandable, and problems were easily identified and solved, as network devices were selected based on purpose and functions. The design involves dividing the network into discrete layers; each layer performs specific functions in the network. Cost and congestion in terms of network traffic flow within and out of network were considered in choosing the right bandwidth for network operation. The basic system requirement for the network devices within the LAN was established and appropriate configuration and installation were carried out to suppo11 the effective operation of the network. Each device on the network was assigned a unique hostname and IP address, taking into account standard address planning. It was ensured that no two devices had same IP address to avoid conflict. Private IP address was used as the network address.

Data integrity within the network was strongly emphasized and it was achieved by implementing firewall security within the network interface considering the security policy of the organization. The network address translation concept also provides security within the network by using a public address when the users interact across the network.