ISSC451
Assignment 7
ISSC 341
ACME inc Network project part 4
I configured two office networks (HQ and Satellite Office) connected remotely in the last
assignment. The current network should support the current needs of the company's operations for at least
a year, assuming no significant changes are taking place. However, ACME Inc. is expanding rapidly, so
here is my short-term, mid-term, and long-term plan for the company's network. I divided my project into
three categories: a short-term plan for the year ahead, a mid-term plan is looking at the expansion of the
network in three years, and a long-term strategy, which is five years vision of the network. Given that we
have an up and running network, I would recommend implementing a couple of other features to enhance
the network to maintain additional security.
Short-Term Plan (1 Year)
The following year, there should not be a need to upgrade hardware for the existing network
like cable, router, switch, etc. However, I recommend the following implementations in the next year.
1) Hire Network Administrator – to keep up with the company's security needs, a network
administrator is a must. By having a network administrator, we can be assured that the
network will be monitored as it should be. The Network Administrator will also be in charge
of installing and updating network security software, setting up user accounts, and keeping up
with the latest security patches and updates needed to keep the network secure.
2) Windows Server - We will need to invest in a Windows server (10 TB HD and 128 GB
memory). The server will be crucial in monitoring the network traffic of both remote networks.
The windows server should be used as a file server to store the company data and accessible to
, users in both networks with access control. The Window server can also host an e-mail server if
need to be [Dix05].
3) Antivirus – Virus is the biggest problem in any network. I recommend buying
MacAfee Small Business Security package and setting up MacAfee Antivirus in all
computers and devices connected to the network[McA19].
4) Firewall – A firewall is the network security device that filters incoming and outgoing
traffic and allows access to only authorized devices. Configuring the firewall to allow or
block the traffic based on specification will provide the needed security to the network. We
should
set up a firewall in both routers, which connect the local network to the internet. A firewall will
help to block lots of unwanted and unsecured network traffic. For example, we can block
specific social media sites, illegal websites, peer-to-peer software, etc.[Cis19].
Mid-Term Plan (3 Years)
1) Upgrade Router/Switch – In 3 years, we will need to upgrade the hardware like routers and
switches. We will also need to upgrade firewall software installed on routers. In the case of
expansion, we will need to install more wireless access points as the need for a more significant
network rises[Dix05].
Assignment 7
ISSC 341
ACME inc Network project part 4
I configured two office networks (HQ and Satellite Office) connected remotely in the last
assignment. The current network should support the current needs of the company's operations for at least
a year, assuming no significant changes are taking place. However, ACME Inc. is expanding rapidly, so
here is my short-term, mid-term, and long-term plan for the company's network. I divided my project into
three categories: a short-term plan for the year ahead, a mid-term plan is looking at the expansion of the
network in three years, and a long-term strategy, which is five years vision of the network. Given that we
have an up and running network, I would recommend implementing a couple of other features to enhance
the network to maintain additional security.
Short-Term Plan (1 Year)
The following year, there should not be a need to upgrade hardware for the existing network
like cable, router, switch, etc. However, I recommend the following implementations in the next year.
1) Hire Network Administrator – to keep up with the company's security needs, a network
administrator is a must. By having a network administrator, we can be assured that the
network will be monitored as it should be. The Network Administrator will also be in charge
of installing and updating network security software, setting up user accounts, and keeping up
with the latest security patches and updates needed to keep the network secure.
2) Windows Server - We will need to invest in a Windows server (10 TB HD and 128 GB
memory). The server will be crucial in monitoring the network traffic of both remote networks.
The windows server should be used as a file server to store the company data and accessible to
, users in both networks with access control. The Window server can also host an e-mail server if
need to be [Dix05].
3) Antivirus – Virus is the biggest problem in any network. I recommend buying
MacAfee Small Business Security package and setting up MacAfee Antivirus in all
computers and devices connected to the network[McA19].
4) Firewall – A firewall is the network security device that filters incoming and outgoing
traffic and allows access to only authorized devices. Configuring the firewall to allow or
block the traffic based on specification will provide the needed security to the network. We
should
set up a firewall in both routers, which connect the local network to the internet. A firewall will
help to block lots of unwanted and unsecured network traffic. For example, we can block
specific social media sites, illegal websites, peer-to-peer software, etc.[Cis19].
Mid-Term Plan (3 Years)
1) Upgrade Router/Switch – In 3 years, we will need to upgrade the hardware like routers and
switches. We will also need to upgrade firewall software installed on routers. In the case of
expansion, we will need to install more wireless access points as the need for a more significant
network rises[Dix05].
