Network-Introduction and Conclusion

Introduction

A network is a group of computers connected to each other for the purpose of communication. A star network is one in which all components in the network are connected to a hub or a switch which allows the transmission of messages. A 10 baseT network allows the connection of twelve or more computers directly to a switch or hub via the use of twisted pair cables and RJ 45 connectors.It allows transmission of data at 10 Mbps. This assignment seeks to design a computer network that allows communication among all the computers in a typical classroom.The components of this network include the NIC, Rj45 connectors, Cat6 cables, PVC cable trunking, wireless router, optical cable, switch and an internet router. It also seeks to find out the cost of all the components of this network.

Conclusion

In order to design a star network, all components of the network should be connected directly to the switch. In designing the network, a 48 port 3 com switch was used. All workstations were connected using Cat 6 cables with RJ45 ends that were connected to each NIC of each workstation. PVC cable trunking was used to hold all wires. A wireless router and an internet router were also connected to the switch to allow wireless and internet connection within the network. The total cost of the network was found to be approximately $998.95. The internet router accounted for almost half the price of the total network . The importance, relative costs of components and how to properly design a star network was learnt from this exercise.