The Six Pack Consulting Firm
System Plan Phase II, Part I Local Area Network Information and Hardware
The goal of the Six Pack Consulting Firm in accordance with the Director of E-Strategy, Riley B. King is to furnish Bluesblaster, Inc. with the best available Local Area Network to fully accommodate the company’s needs and expectations. To make this technological adjustment as painless as possible, The Six Pack has prepared an extensive layout of the purposes of the LAN, necessary hardware required for the microcomputers, role of a server and issues relating to cabling options. PURPOSE OF THE LOCAL-AREA NETWORK Source: Webopedia A Local-Area Network (known as a LAN) is a group of two or more computer systems linked together in a geographically close region, usually in the same building or buildings next to each other. However, one LAN can be connected to other LANs over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves. A system of LANs connected in this way is called a Wide-Area Network (WAN). Most LANs connect workstations and personal computers. Each node (individual computer) in a LAN has its own CPU with which it executes programs, but it is also able to access data and devices anywhere on the LAN. This means that many users can share expensive devices, such as laser printers, as well as data. Users can also use the LAN to communicate with each other, by sending email or engaging in chat sessions. Listed below are some characteristics that differentiate Local-Area Networks: LAN CHARACTERISTICS Topology DESCRIPTION The geometric arrangement of devices on the network. The shape can range from a bus, ring, star or a mixture of kinds. The rules and encoding specifications for sending data. The protocols also determine whether the network uses a peer-to-peer or client/server architecture. Media refers to the cables linking workstations together. There are many different types of transmission media, the most popular being twisted-pair wire (normal electrical wire), coaxial cable (the type of cable used for cable television), and fiber optic cable (cables made out of glass).
Protocols
Media
LANs are capable of transmitting data at very fast rates, much faster than data can be transmitted over a telephone line; but the distances are limited, and there is also a limit on the number of computers that can be attached to a single LAN. 1
The Six Pack Consulting Firm
BASIC HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS Source: Webopedia In Alphabetical Order Listed below are the basic components required for microcomputers in a network: TYPES OF HARDWARE Backbone (another term for bus) DESCRIPTION The main wire that connects nodes. The term is often used to describe the main network connections composing the Internet. A device that connects two local-area networks (LANs), or two segments of the same LAN. A common connection point for devices in a network. Hubs are commonly used to connect segments of a LAN. A hub contains multiple ports. When a packet arrives at one port, it is copied to the other ports so that all segments of the LAN can see all packets. An expansion board you insert into a computer so the computer can be connected to a network. A device that connects any number of LANs. Routers use headers and a forwarding table to determine where packets go, and they use ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) to communicate with each other and configure the best route between any two hosts. A device that filters and forwards packets between LAN segments. LANs that use switches to join segments are called switched LANs or, in the case of Ethernet networks, switched Ethernet LANs. A special type of hub that forwards packets to the appropriate port based on the packet's address. A device that both transmits and receives analog or digital signals. In local-area networks (LANs) it actually applies signals onto the network wire and detects signals passing through the wire.
Bridge
Hub
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Router
Switch
Switching Hub
Transceiver
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm ROLE OF A SERVER Source: Webopedia A server is a computer or device on a network that manages network resources. Servers tend to perform no other tasks than those that they are given, with the exception of a multiprocessing operating system that can execute several programs at once. Here are some examples of servers: FILE SERVER- a computer and storage device dedicated to storing files PRINT SERVER- a computer that manages one or more printer NETWORK SERVER- a computer that manages network traffic DATABASE SERVER- a computer system that processes database queries
ISSUES RELATING TO CABLING Source: Webopedia In Alphabetical Order There are several devices necessary for network connectivity, and among the most important of them is cabling. Cables are the lifelines that link every aspect of the network together. There are various types of cabling to choose from with numerous characteristics specific for the individual network needs. Listed below are different types of cabling available: TYPES OF CABLE Coaxial cable BENEFITS/ DOWNFALLS A center wire -Cable television -Carries a lot of data surrounded by -Computer networks -Less susceptible to insulation and then a interference than grounded shield of standard wire braided wire -Expensive Bundles of glass (or -Telephone lines -Greater bandwidth plastic) threads -LANs -Less susceptible to (fibers) to transmit interference than data metal wire -Lighter and thinner -Digital data transmission -Very expensive -Fragile Two independently -Older telephone -Least expensive insulated wires networks twisted around one -Inexpensive LANs another Two unshielded -Telephone -Easy to work with wires twisted connections -Inexpensive DESCRIPTION USE
Fiber Optics
Twisted-pair cable
UTP (unshielded twisted pair)
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm around each other -LANs -Little bandwidth -Poor protection from interference
Finally, in order to fully understand how all of these attributes to networking fit together, The Six Pack Consulting Firm has graphically displayed what a Local-Area Network looks like. This includes an adapter card for the PC, a cable of some type (wire or fiber), and a physical layer device that passes the data stream such as a hub. All of these units might be combined, as shown below, into a small workgroup. The workgroup includes a server and PCs that share data.
http://www.cnetusa.com/wpbuilding100.html
Functions of a Network Operating System
Source: IDC A network operating system, often abbreviated as NOS, is basically an operating system that allows for special features to connect computers and hardware devices to a local area network (LAN). There are many operating systems, such as UNIX and the Mac OS that have special elements built into them to run more efficiently with networks, but the general NOS is reserved for software that enhances a basic operating system by adding networking features. Network Operating Systems have gone far beyond their roots of file and print services. Other functions, such as communications, database, application, and management services, have become equally important in corporate environments. There
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm are a number of factors that a network operating system must contain to effectively integrate with hardware features and a company’s demands. NOS functions include providing file, print, communication, database, application, management, and other services to personal and business computer clients. File locking for security reasons, various types of client failover when a server fails, and support of fault-tolerant hardware configurations are all important to companies that rely on the network as a critical part of their day-to-day business operations. One of the main concerns that companies relying on networks have are security issues. Companies need to feel comfortable that corporate data assets are secure and NOSs must assure that they will provide these vitally important types of security. If there is any basis for doubting the capability of a particular network operating systems’ security devices, you are probably better off settling with a more secure system. This is the single most important factor to a company relying heavily on a NOS and must be taken into very serious consideration. Server management plays an intricate role in the success of the entire operating system. This enables the company to review file management, user account management, error reporting, and server performance reporting. Just like any profitable business plan, the determining factor in success is the ability for that company to effectively manage and orchestrate solutions in a timely and most valuable manner. This entails that the NOS must be able to manage and report any operating activities. OPERATING SYSTEM VS. NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEM There are very few differences between network operating systems and your standard operating system. The main difference is that typically an operating system is going to provide less security and not going to be quite as stable. To put it simply, a network operating system is an operating system that allows the users to connect to many hardware devices and software programs that are connected via a hub in a local area network. There are many different network operating systems on the market today. The ones that we found to be most useful include Microsoft’s Windows NT, Novell’s NetWare, and IBM’s OS/2. Novell is a company that has focused in the area of file and printing capabilities, and Microsoft and IBM rule according to application services. We would recommend Windows NT, simply because this is the most widely used network operating system and this will be the easiest and most flexible system to work with.
In-House E-mail vs. Outsourcing
Source: USA.net Source: Outsourcing.com Sharing information over e-mail is critical in today’s business world. There are two ways a company can transfer this information, they can either run e-mail in-house or outsource e-mail to a company. In-house e-mail is pretty self-explanatory. It means that all mail being sent within your company runs through a server that is located with in your establishment. Out sourcing takes place when an organization transfers the ownership of a business process to a supplier. This supplier has ownership or control over this process.
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm In essence, an outsourcing agreement usually allows the provider company (outsourcer) to supply a customer with services or processes that the customer is currently supplying internally. In order to decide if Bluesblasters Inc. should invest in an outsource server, you should determine what kind of resources, both in terms of capital and manpower you currently have. You should weigh the advantages and disadvantages to both options. There are a few disadvantages to outsourcing. The first one is that it is not as secure as an in-house server. There is an opportunity for computer hackers to access your information when you are outsourcing. Another disadvantage is that you lose your flexibility in your growing business. This happens because you are locked into the system software and procedures of the hosting company. The last disadvantage is that the cost is higher to outsource. To address these disadvantages, choosing a reliable and well-known outsourcing company can secure the information sent via e-mail. Although flexibility can be limited, choosing a larger outsourcing company that allows software to run on a variety of platforms will allow more leeway. Lastly, in the long run, the cost of outsourcing proves to be a good investment. Some more advantages to outsourcing include: Opportunity to increase capabilities More reliable network access Source of ideas Improve performance and vision We feel that, although there are a few disadvantages to outsourcing, the advantages to outsource will help your business in the long run. It will give your growing company freedom to focus on what they do best and leave your e-mail worries to your outsourcing company of choice.
http://www.outsourcing.com/buyerSite/howandwhy/research/osindex/index.htm
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm
System Plan Phase II, Part II
When describing the main types of cables used in connecting computers there are three styles: twisted pair, coaxial, and fiber. There is also another way to connect computers and that is through a wireless network. This paper will examine all these ways as well as providing insight into the different types of topologies involved. The most common type of cable used in computer connections for analog and digital data is twisted pair, two independent wires twisted around each other. It is inexpensive, and easy to install, troubleshoot, and repair. Twisted pair cable comes both unshielded and shielded. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable used for LANs is similar to telephone cable, but has somewhat more severe specifications regarding its vulnerability to outside electromagnetic interference (EMI) than common telephone wire. Shielded twisted pair (STP) comes with a shielding around the cable to provide more protection
against EMI. (Twisted Pair Cable) One of the most significant technological breakthroughs in information transmission has been the development of fiber optic communication systems. The following characteristics distinguish optical fiber from twisted pair or coaxial cable: Greater capacity, smaller size and lighter weight- optical fibers are considerably thinner than coaxial cable or bundled twisted-pair cable Lower attenuation- attenuation is significantly lower and is constant over a wide range Electromagnetic isolation: optical fiber systems are not affected by external electromagnetic fields. Fiber optic systems are more expansive than twisted pair and coaxial cable in terms of cost per foot and required components. The downfall to fiber optic cables it that it is much more expensive to install.
(Fiber Optic Cable) The most versatile transmission medium is coaxial cable. There are two types currently used for LAN applications: 75-ohm cable, which is the standard used in community antenna television systems, and 50-ohm cable, which is used only for digital signaling - baseband. The cost of installed coaxial cable falls between that of twisted pair and optical fiber. Coaxial cable can be difficult to install due to the rubber coating around the wires used to protect them from moisture being difficult to bend. A coaxial cable can carry much more information than a standard phone line and is highly resistant to interference.
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm (Coaxial Cable)
The final type of computer connection is through a wireless network. Wireless LANs use high frequency radio signals, infrared light beams, or lasers to communicate between the workstations and the file server or hubs. Each workstation and file server on a wireless network has some sort of transceiver/antenna to send and receive the data. Information is relayed between transceivers as if they were physically connected. For longer distance, wireless communications can also take place through cellular telephone technology, microwave transmission, or by satellite. Wireless networks are great for allowing laptop computers or remote computers to connect to the LAN. Wireless networks are also beneficial in older buildings where it may be difficult or impossible to install cables.
(Wireless Network) Some topologies include buses, stars, and, rings. The first type, a linear bus is basically a main cable with a terminator at each end. The connections to the bus are easy to make and installation is much easier but when the main cable breaks there is a shut down of the entire system. If the system does go down it is difficult to pinpoint the problem.
(Linear Bus) Stars are designed so that each node is directly connected with a central hub. This system is easy to install, detect faults, and remove parts however it necessitates more cable, and is more expensive than a linear bus.
(Star) Finally, a star wired ring is similar to a star except the information is passed in a circular motion, also. This is usually done through a token ring, where computers access
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The Six Pack Consulting Firm the network through token passing. A token is “a special series of bits that travels around
a token-ring network.” http://webopedia.internet.com/TERM/t/token.html (Ring)
References: http://www.computernessos.it/ATI/wp-media.htm http://centelusa.com/ http://www.cs.uni-sb.de/~anja/lehre/vorlesung00/book/Computer_Networking/01.05.htm http://choices.cs.uiuc.edu/schools/gv-wiring.html
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