CMGTCB554 Competency 2 Reflection
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Dan MshefahCMGTCB554 Competency 2 Reflection
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Dan MshefahAssignment Content
1.
Once your faculty marks this activity as complete in the gradebook,
the competency assessment will open for you to submit.
Competency 2: Understand how to build an environment that blends
telecommunications and computer networks.
This reflection activity is comprised of two sections collectively totaling
a minimum of 500 words. Complete your reflections by responding to
all prompts.
Networking Infrastructure
One of the most important decisions a company can make in terms of
its IT infrastructure is the design of its network.
Consider the following 2 companies:
o Company 1: This company is a small 1-office company that uses 20
computers and 2 printers in its suite.
o Company 2: This company has multiple locations with a datacenter
located in one of its facilities that all the other facilities connect to for
information.
Respond to the following:
o What type of networking model and equipment would you recommend
for each of the 2 companies?
o Why did you select these network models? Add further networking and
telecommunications equipment recommendations for the selected
network model for each company.
Telecommunication and Network Standards and Protocols
One of the most important roles of IT managers is to make sure that
the organization has available communication that works 24/7.
Consider the major telecommunications and networking standards and
protocols in use today, and how they are monitored to ensure
continuous availability.
Respond to the following:
o In your current or former organization, what are the biggest challenges
you observe in your networking and telecommunications operations?
Submit your reflection.
Competency 2 – Reflection
Networking Infrastructure
A peer-to-peer networking approach is suitable for corporation 1, a small corporation
with limited resources and a single office. In this framework, all machines have equal status
for easy file and printer sharing. The computers would be connected using a network switch
for communication and a router for internet access. Using a Network Attached Storage (NAS)
device centralizes file storage for easier collaboration. To enhance security, install a firewall
and use a dedicated print server for efficient printer management and sharing. These
guidelines are simple and cost-effective for a smaller environment.
A client-server networking approach is recommended for Company 2, a larger firm
with multiple locations operating under a central datacenter. Core switches link multiple sites
for fast data transmission. Routers enable interconnection and internet access. Servers and
network equipment are stored in a server rack in the datacenter. The datacenter has redundant
power supply to ensure continuous operation and reduce downtime (Priol & Alléon, 2021). A
Virtual Private Network (VPN) improves confidential communication between different
locations in a larger organization, meeting scalability and centralized data management
requirements. These guidelines consider the scalability and complexity needs of a multi-
location configuration.
I chose the peer-to-peer networking model for Company 1 because it is simple, cost-
effective, and suitable for the company's small-scale operations. The peer-to-peer model is
easy to set up and manage without a dedicated server. Additional recommendations for this
model include implementing a reliable network switch, a router for internet connectivity, a
Network Attached Storage (NAS) device for centralized file storage, a firewall for enhanced
security, and a dedicated print server for efficient printer management and sharing. On the
other hand, I recommended a client-server networking model for Company 2 because it is
scalable and allows for centralized data management, which is important for a larger
organization. The central server manages resources and services across multiple locations. I
suggested a core switch, router, server rack, redundant power supplies, and a VPN for secure
communication between locations in the datacenter. These recommendations meet the needs
of a larger organization with multiple facilities, improving data management, scalability, and
security.
Telecommunication and Network Standards and Protocols
My prior organization had networking and telecommunications issues that affected IT
infrastructure efficiency and reliability. Maintaining a heterogeneous network with different
technologies, hardware, and software proved difficult. When old and new technologies
coexist, interoperability issues arise. Problems hampered departmental data exchange and
collaboration. Upgrades and standardization of the network infrastructure were required for
integration and efficiency. Another issue was the constant threat to Network security.
Protecting important data's security, integrity, and availability is essential as cyber threats rise.
The company has to install rigorous security measures, perform frequent vulnerability
assessments, and educate people to encourage security awareness to keep ahead of
cybersecurity threats. Diverse and creative strategies were required to balance network
security and corporate communication.
Enterprise productivity is hampered by network outages. Due to technology, hardware,
or system improvements, unplanned outages may impair operations. To prevent unexpected
interruptions, downtime management includes redundancy, frequent maintenance outside of
business hours, and well-defined contingency plans (Yang, 2019). Monitoring and managing
downtime reasons required a proactive approach. Organization scaling and adapting were
difficult. As the company grew, its network architecture required to enable data transmission,
storage, and communication. Network management to accommodate expansion and minimize
disturbance proved difficult. Technology changed quickly, making it hard to incorporate new
innovations into infrastructure. For flexibility and technical competitiveness, the network was
designed strategically and new technologies were evaluated often.
References
Priol, T., & Alléon, G. (2021). A client/server approach for HPC applications within a
networking environment. Future Generation Computer Systems, 17(6), 813-822.
Yang, T. (2019). ICT technologies standards and protocols for active distribution network.
