Network Infrastructure Recommendation for SNHUEnergy, Inc.

Future Communication Needs

As SNHUEnergy, Inc. continues to grow and expand its operations, it is essential to anticipate and plan for its future communication needs. The organization will increasingly require:

1. Scalability: The network must support a growing number of users and devices as the workforce expands and new technologies are integrated.
2. High Throughput: With the rise in data-intensive applications, there will be a need for high-speed connections to ensure efficient access to resources and applications.
3. Reliability: The network should provide consistent uptime and minimal downtime to support critical business operations.
4. Security: As cyber threats continue to evolve, a robust security infrastructure that includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure access protocols is essential.
5. Remote Access: The organization will need to accommodate remote work capabilities, requiring secure VPN access for employees working offsite.
6. Collaboration Tools: Enhanced communication tools such as VoIP, video conferencing, and team collaboration software will be vital for efficient internal and external communication.

Network Architecture

To meet the future communication needs of SNHUEnergy, Inc., I recommend implementing a Hierarchical Network Architecture composed of three primary layers: Core Layer, Distribution Layer, and Access Layer.

1. Core Layer

The Core Layer acts as the backbone of the network, providing high-speed data transfer between different locations and ensuring fast communication across the organization. This layer will employ high-capacity routers and switches capable of handling large volumes of traffic and ensuring redundancy through multiple links.

2. Distribution Layer

The Distribution Layer aggregates traffic from the Access Layer and routes it towards the Core Layer. This layer will incorporate Layer 3 switches with advanced routing capabilities to manage traffic efficiently. Additionally, security features such as firewalls will be implemented at this layer to segment various parts of the network and enforce security policies.

3. Access Layer

The Access Layer connects end-user devices to the network. This layer will employ Ethernet switches for wired connections and wireless access points (WAPs) for mobile devices. The Access Layer will also support VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) to enhance security and performance by segmenting the network based on departments or functions.

Benefits of the Proposed Architecture

• Improved Scalability: The hierarchical design allows for easy addition of new devices and users without compromising performance.
• Enhanced Performance: High-speed connections at the Core Layer reduce latency and improve data transfer rates across the organization.
• Robust Security: Implementing firewalls at the Distribution Layer adds a critical security layer that can prevent unauthorized access.
• Support for Remote Work: With VPN capabilities integrated into the architecture, employees can securely access the network from remote locations.

Future Visual Representation

Below is a visual representation of the recommended network architecture for SNHUEnergy, Inc.:

+----------------+          +------------------+          +------------------+
|                |          |                  |          |                  |
|   Remote Users |----------|     VPN Gateway   |----------|   Core Switch    |
|                |          |                  |          |                  |
+----------------+          +------------------+          +------------------+
                          |                        |
                          |                        |
                          |                        |
                 +------------------+     +------------------+
                 |                  |     |                  |
                 |   Firewall       |-----|   Firewall       |
                 |                  |     |                  |
                 +------------------+     +------------------+
                          |                        |
                          |                        |
                +------------------+     +------------------+
                | Distribution      |     | Distribution      |
                | Switches          |-----| Switches          |
                |                  |     |                  |
                +------------------+     +------------------+
                          |                        |
                 +------------------+     +------------------+
                 | Access Switches   |     |  Wireless Access  |
                 |                  |     |  Points (WAPs)    |
                 +------------------+     +------------------+
                          |
                 +------------------+
                 |   User Devices    |
                 +------------------+

This diagram illustrates how users connect through various layers of the network infrastructure, enhancing communication capabilities across SNHUEnergy, Inc. By implementing this architecture, the organization can ensure a robust, scalable, and secure network that supports its future growth and evolving communication needs.