MBIS404 Networks and Communications

AT2 Group Case Study, Implementation, Report and Presentation

Introduction:
In the dynamic realm of computer networks, the pursuit of effective protocols, layered
architectures, and strategic network implementations is paramount. This Group Case Study,
Implementation, Report, and Presentation endeavours to achieve Course Learning Outcomes
(CLOs) 1,2,3 and 4, constituting a holistic approach to developing skills and knowledge
essential for network professionals.

Specifications for 4JBM Company Network Design

Background:

You have been tasked with designing and implementing a comprehensive network for 4JBM
Company, which now has five branches: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.
The Company administration has provided the IP address range 192.168.10.0/24 for the entire
network. Your goal is to create a robust and well-connected network that facilitates efficient
communication and data transfer among the branches.

Challenge Components:

1. Subnetting: Subnet the given IP address range (192.168.10.0/24) to accommodate

the five branches using Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM). Each branch will have
its own subnet, with careful consideration given to the number of hosts required in
each subnet.
2. Routers: Configure routers to connect the five branches. Implement routing
protocols to enable communication between branches. Each router should have an
appropriate IP address from its respective subnet.
3. Switches: Set up switches within each branch to provide local network connectivity.
Design VLANs to logically separate three departments in each branch: Human
Resources, IT, and Finance. Only similar departments across branches will
communicate with each other.
4. Terminals (End Devices): Connect terminals (computers, printers, etc.) to the
network in each branch. Ensure that each terminal is assigned a unique IP address
within its respective subnet.
 5. Inter-branch Communication: Establish secure communication between
branches. Implement measures to ensure data integrity and confidentiality, including
port security and SSH for secure access.
6. VLSM Subnetting Plan:
o Sydney Branch: 50 hosts
o Melbourne Branch: 30 hosts
o Brisbane Branch: 20 hosts
o Adelaide Branch: 15 hosts
o Perth Branch: 10 hosts
7. Point-to-Point Connections: To avoid IP conflicts for point-to-point connections
between branches, use a dedicated subnet:
o Subnet for Point-to-Point Links: 192.168.20.0/30

Report Requirements:

Your submission should include a detailed report covering the following aspects:

1. Network Design: Provide a comprehensive overview of the network design,

including the subnetting scheme, IP addresses, and the rationale behind your choices.
2. Router Configuration: Document the configuration settings for each router,
including IP addresses, routing protocols used, and any other relevant configurations.
3. Switch Configuration: Detail the configuration of switches, specifying VLANs for
the three departments in each branch, port assignments, and any additional
configurations to optimize local network performance.
4. Terminal Configuration: Provide information on how terminals are configured,
including IP addressing, DNS settings, and any specific considerations for different
types of devices.
5. Inter-branch Communication Setup: Explain how you ensured secure and
efficient communication between branches, detailing encryption methods, tunnelling
protocols, port security measures, and SSH implementation.
6. Challenges Faced and Solutions: Discuss any challenges encountered during the
implementation and provide solutions or alternative approaches.

Submission Guidelines:

 Submit your detailed report along with any configuration scripts or commands used.
  Include diagrams, charts, or any visual aids to enhance the clarity of your design.
 Ensure that the network is fully functional and provide evidence of successful
connectivity tests.

Presentation Structure for Network Design and Implementation:

1. Introduction:
o Introduce the project scope and objectives.
o Briefly mention the company background and the importance of a well-
connected network for efficient operations.
2. Network Overview:
o Provide an overview of the network design.
o Mention the IP address range (192.168.10.0/24) and its implications.
o Outline the network topology and the rationale behind your choice.
3. Branch Network Design:
o Sydney Branch: Describe the network setup specific to Sydney, including
hardware used (routers, switches, access points), VLAN setup, and
connectivity options.
o Melbourne Branch: Repeat the above for Melbourne.
o Brisbane Branch: Repeat for Brisbane.
o Adelaide Branch: Repeat for Adelaide.
o Perth Branch: Repeat for Perth.
4. Inter-Branch Connectivity:
o Detail how inter-branch communication is established.
o Discuss routing protocols used.
o Explain any redundancy measures implemented (e.g., dual-homing, backup
links).
5. Security Measures:
o Outline security protocols and mechanisms used.
o Discuss firewall configurations.
o Mention encryption standards and SSH for secure data transfer between
branches.
6. Performance and Scalability:
o Explain how the network design supports high performance and scalability.
 o Mention bandwidth considerations and QoS (Quality of Service)
implementations.
o Discuss capacity planning for future growth.
7. Network Management:
o Describe network monitoring and management tools used if any.
o Explain how network performance is monitored.
o Discuss troubleshooting and support procedures.
8. Benefits and Impact:
o Highlight the benefits of the new network design.
o Discuss improvements in efficiency, collaboration, and data transfer.
o Mention any cost savings or efficiency gains observed post-implementation.
9. Conclusion:
o Summarize the key points discussed.
o Reiterate the success of the network implementation.
o Invite questions and feedback from the audience.

Tips for Presenting:

 Clear and Concise: Ensure each slide has a clear focus and communicates
information succinctly.
 Visual Aids: Use diagrams, charts, and maps to illustrate network topology, data flow,
and connectivity between branches.
 Use Case Scenarios: Provide practical examples or use cases to demonstrate how
the network design supports daily operations and business continuity.
 Engage the Audience: Encourage interaction through Q&A sessions or discussions
on challenges faced and solutions implemented.
 Highlight Security: Emphasize the importance of security measures and how they
protect company data and operations.
 Focus on Benefits: Showcase tangible benefits such as improved communication,
reduced downtime, and enhanced productivity.
 Practice and Timing: Rehearse your presentation to ensure smooth delivery within
the allocated time frame.
By following this structure and tips, you can effectively showcase the design and
implementation of the network for 4JBM Company, demonstrating your expertise and the
value added to the organization through your work