IT 315: Networking & Security

For my IT 315: Networking and Security course, I completed a detailed network infrastructure plan for an imaginary high school. The assignment required me to design a network from scratch, calculate the required cabling, and select appropriate network equipment for a functional, secure, and cost-effective solution networking solution. I began by reviewing the floor plan that was provided to me, and I then determined the optimal placement of telecommunications closets and an equipment room across the school’s four floors.

Using measurements and scaling techniques, I calculated the necessary lengths of cabling for each floor, ensuring that all classrooms would be properly connected to the main network. To implement the design, I used a star topology, which centralizes network management and increases efficiency. Additionally, I specified the type of equipment (switches, patch panels, RJ45 outlets, etc.) to be used, justifying my choices based on factors like network performance, cost, and future scalability. This assignment was completed on December 3, 2022, and showcased my ability to plan, design, and justify network infrastructure decisions for a real-world setting.

Post Course Summary

This project honed several essential skills, including network planning and design, critical thinking, and technical problem-solving. By determining cabling routes, selecting equipment, and mapping out the network structure, I was able to strengthen my ability to approach complex problems in a systematic manner. Additionally, helped me to practice budget management, and forced me to balance both cost-effectiveness with overall performance, ensuring that my design met both the technical requirements and the hypothetical client’s budget. The project also highlighted the importance of attention to detail and precision in technical planning, both are values that are believe to be critical in the field of cybersecurity and network management.