Interoperability is the ability of different software applications to interchange data and process information. Because it is a small and simple network, interoperability will be limited to include email and a database system.
Objectives
Some main objectives for this project are listed below:
- Find and determine the necessary software and hardware requirements for the database server.
- Installation and configuration of the database server.
- Design and implement the network
- Design and install the required hardware and software to build the network.
- Creation of a security plan suitable for the schools network. This will include creating access limitations and appropriate login restrictions for both the students and staffs.
- Create an interoperable file transfer. This is for the transfer of files from one host to another within the network.
- Tie together all the email systems within the school considering a mail server.
- For the database solution, a SQL front end will be installed in the school that will be able to make calls to the SQL database.
- Use packet tracer to create and simulate the entire network, that is based on the network layout and it will enable me acquire more knowledge and experience before actually getting to the field. On completion, I will test the network for any possible predicament such as errors and to seek further solutions to make improvements.
- To create a simple to understand manual for troubleshooting.
- Tutorials will be made to staffs and students in creating awareness of how to use the new network.
Evidence of requirement
Thinking about what to do a project about can be stressful. I came up with some things to do the project on initially but found out it is not the best in my concentration. So, I finally reflected back in Nigeria what are the problems we have concerning IT, I realized that our schools are really lacking behind in technology related to IT.
Then I decided that creating and designing a network for a school would not be a bad idea. Thought of how to start that, I then contacted my Dad for possible advice. He later hooked me up with a brother of his who recently opened a secondary school. I was quite pleased because it came a little easier. I spoke with the proprietor who is my uncle explaining to him my condition.
Because he has little or no knowledge of IT, he briefed me on how the school is, that is the scale of the school, the IT resources they have functioning. He then invited me to come during the Christmas break to make some observations on how the school looks. Going to the school will be important for me because I will actually see what they have currently and how to change it entirely.
An official letter of acceptance will also be sent to me showing I am authorized to set them the network. I can make that available to you as soon as it arrives. I asked him about the finances, but he assured me that it would not be a problem.
Context description
- Networking is a standard practice that has been going on for a while now. As networking is not a new thing to us, I can say it is to people that are not aware of it. As for me, it is new in the context that I will be actually designing and implementing one myself for the first time. And whom I am designing it for is going to be there first network as well.
- By now and at this level I can say I have some appreciated knowledge regarding networking. This is because my program of study is computer networks and I have progressed up to the final level of the course. I have been acquiring knowledge right from foundation level at Middlesex University concerning computer networks. I am aware of what hardware and softwares are available that will enable complete the project successfully. As a matter of fact, I still am acquiring knowledge regarding the project from current modules I am studying in the university.
Research method
The research method I intend to use in this project is making use of packet tracer, it will help me familiarise myself more with networking. I will invite some network analysts to come check the network and give me possible solutions and advices on how to improve the network in the near future.
Brief product description
Your new network has been finally setup. Things you can now do with the computers are:
- You can select any printer within the school to output your documents regardless of your location within the premises.
- You can retrieve data from any database, example, from finance office to confirm if a student hasn’t got any outstanding fees to pay.
- You all have your new school email and you can send emails within or outside the school.
The new network provides a solid foundation for the introduction of new technology, new learning resources and services as they become available around the world.
Deliverables
I would set up servers; for this I would use win 2003 server. This win 2003 server will be used for multiple tasks, that is SQL server and mail server. The server would be responsible for the storing of the schools database.
For hardware I would use a digital subscriber line; modem or router connected to a hardware firewall. The firewall to be used will have the ability to operate as a DHCP server in order to give comprehensiveness in securing the network.
Using an offsite service to backup their data and store it safely in case of any disaster.
Outcome/product evaluation approach
I will make sure I create by simulating the network using packet tracer until I get comfortable. So when I actually get to set the network up, I would know exactly what I am doing.
After setting the final network in the school, I will test the network materials for at least two weeks to see if a problem might occur. As the students are new to it, some of them would not leave the chance of tempering the network and tutorials will be set for both the teachers and student.
In the case of error, the network components will be restarted and reconfigured. It will be diagnosed until any obstacle is got rid off.
If I cant fix it by these, I will then have to explain it to the client due to it being a prototype, there are some predicaments which will need to be corrected.
Resources
- To successfully complete this project, I need to have most importantly support and assistance from my dear teachers, and also the following:
- I need time to familiarise my self with networking skills.
- I need unlimited access to the Internet and library books for the purpose of research and referencing.
- A personal computer with packet tracer installed.
- Approval by my tutors to play and practice in some of the networking labs.
- Any necessary hardware equipments such as; the workstations, servers, routers, switches, cables (CAT5 or 6), bridges, wireless routers will be bought from branded company names. Cost is not a problem.
- Software packages will also be supplied to me in order to successfully complete and put the integrated network into place.
- The primary reason for this is to improve on the schools quality of education and service. Students in the school now will finally see what they have missing, this includes the obvious simplicity of learning and researching materials throughout the world to help improve their education.
The staffs will also find it easier in delivering their teaching more efficiently. Communication will flow never like before once completed.
Students and staffs who have maybe never used a computer will have the necessary help. This can help them know how it works and how they can get the most of the new network effectively.
I will create an easy to understand tutorial to train staffs and students on how to benefit the most out of it. Special training will be given to some staffs that can have more privileges in accessing the network.
Bibliography
Cummins, J, Mullin, R (2002) sales promotion: how to create and implement campaigns that really work. Kogan Page
Bowden, J (2004) Writing a Report: How to Prepare, Write and Present Effective Reports. How To Books Ltd
Dr Andres Fortino, P.E Jerry Golick (1996) Multivendor Networking, Linking PCs, minis, and mainframes over LANs and WANs. McGraw-Hill series on computer communications
Larry L. Peterson and Bruce S. Davie (2003) Computer Networks, A system Approach Edition 3. Morgan Kaufmann publishers
Accessed on 20/11/2008 at around 2:11 pm.
Access on 22/11/2008 at around 11:46 pm.
Accessed on 12/11/2008 at 15:02 pm.
