Reference no: EM134016046
Introduction to Information Networks
Learning Outcomes:
LO1 Evaluate the main technologies, models and protocols used in data communications and networking.
LO2 Explain the purpose and functionality of layered computer network models.
LO3 Identify problems that emerge among the networks that constitute today's internet architecture.
Assessment - Network Design and Implementation Project
Your Task
This assessment challenges you to apply theoretical concepts from your course to a practical network design and simulation project. You are expected to create a comprehensive network using Cisco Packet Tracer, a network simulation software. This project will test your ability to integrate knowledge across several networking domains, including network layer models, addressing and routing, transport layer protocols, wireless networking, network security, and Quality of Service (QoS). Concepts from computer science provide the foundation for designing and implementing such network environments.
Assessment Description
Part 1. Network Design Documentation
Purpose: To outline your entire network design process, from inception to implementation. This document will serve as a comprehensive blueprint of your network, detailing each decision and its justification.
Content:
Introduction: Describe the purpose and expected outcomes of the network.
Design Choices: Discuss the selection of network models (OSI or TCP/IP layers) and their suitability for your scenario.
Addressing Scheme: Provide a detailed IP addressing plan.
Routing Protocols: Detail which routing protocols (e.g., RIP, OSPF, BGP) are used and the rationale behind their selection.
Network Security Measures: Outline the security protocols (e.g., firewalls, VPNs) to protect the network.
Quality of Service (QoS): Explain your strategy for managing network traffic and ensuring quality of service.
Simulation Outline: Describe what will be demonstrated in the Cisco Packet Tracer simulation. You must use the Network Scenario Generators: Custom GPT: Network Scenario Generator (link) to assist in generating and refining your network scenario. This tool is integral to creating realistic and challenging network environments for simulation.
Part 2. Network Simulation
Purpose: To practically implement and troubleshoot your network design in a simulated environment using Cisco Packet Tracer.
Setup Requirements:
Network Construction: Construct a network that includes:
Three Routers: Configured to manage traffic between different network segments.
Three Switches: Connecting devices within the same network segment.
Wireless Devices: Implement wireless access points as studied in Weeks 7 - 9.
Three Hosts: Devices (e.g., PCs) that generate and receive traffic.
One Rogue Device: Simulate security threats using a rogue laptop.
Modules: Include HWIC-2T (two-port serial high-speed WAN) modules in routers as part of Week 7-9's workshop.
Naming Convention: The first router should be named using your first name (e.g., Router_John) and the second router with your last name (e.g., Router_Doe).
Suggested IP Address Table:
For students new to subnetting, here is a suggested IP address table. These IP addresses are recommendations, and you can modify them based on your network scenario. Alternatively, use the Network Scenario Generators Custom GPT (link) to generate other valid IP address schemes.
Notes:
"XX" in IP addresses for Network A indicates that specific IPs will be provided to each student from the unique list of IPs during Week 11 to ensure individual configurations.
Router Naming: Replace Router_[Your_First_Name] and Router_[Your_Last_Name] with your actual first and last names as specified in the assessment.
Network C: This network can be an additional segment if you want to simulate more advanced configurations or connect additional departments/locations.
Wireless Configuration: Access Points should have their own IP addresses within the respective network segments, and security settings (WPA2) should be configured for wireless access.
The project also requires an understanding of information technology and system concepts when configuring and managing network resources.
Configuration and Testing:
Router and Switch Configuration: Configure router interfaces and switch ports based on the addressing table above. Ensure all interfaces are enabled, and IP addressing is correctly set up.
Wireless Network Settings: Integrate wireless access points by configuring SSID, authentication, and performance metrics (signal strength, throughput).
Port Security: Configure port security on switches to restrict unauthorised access. Ensure port security is blocking rogue traffic while allowing legitimate devices to connect.
Testing and Verification: Use ping and diagnostic commands to test connectivity between devices and ensure smooth communication between routers, switches, and wireless devices.
Presentation
Purpose: To comprehensively articulate the process, decisions, and outcomes of your network design and simulation.
Format: Present your assessment as a video recording of 8 minutes detailing the network design and simulation stages using the format given below.
Introduction: Discuss the project scope and objectives.
Walk-through: Explain the network design in detail.
Demonstration: Highlight key functionalities within the simulation.
Challenges and Resolutions: Discuss any challenges faced and their resolutions.
Conclusion: Suggest potential improvements or future network expansions.