Running Head: COMPUTER NETWORK

Computer Network

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Computer networks should meet certain requirements to attain the required efficiency.

The following 5 things are extremely important and should be considered when designing a

computer network.

Cost

The network design should consider equipment as well as maintenance costs. The cost of

components like routers, switches, cables, and hubs should be put into consideration[ CITATION

McC19 \l 1033 ]. Also, the cost of labor should be a consideration when designing a computer

network. The design of a network has to be sensitive to the financial budget of constructing that

network[ CITATION Dsp18 \l 1033 ].

Connectivity and Security

Network connectivity includes Ethernet cables, wireless access points, and elements that

allow connection while outside offices. The designing of a computer network should address

connectivity both in and out of the office[ CITATION Wee19 \l 1033 ]. This connectivity includes

data storage mechanisms like cloud-based solutions, type of information to be accessible, who is

to be permitted access, and the devices to be included.

Additionally, there should be mechanisms to protect interference and manipulation of

information through the network from the external world. This should include building structures

like access servers as well as firewalls. The security of a computer network should be such that it

should not slow down operations.

Redundancy and Backing Up

The design phase of a network should have the means of backing up mission-critical

elements in the network. For instance, there can be two similar servers configured with fail-safes

to ensure that one takes over when the other fails. A good practice is to incorporate redundant
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components as well as services in various sections of the network to ensure continued operation [

CITATION Wee19 \l 1033 ]. Extra switches, wireless routers, and spare laptops on site are among

measures that can minimize downtime in a network.

Disaster Recovery Plan

Any network design should have a comprehensive disaster recovery plan. This

encompasses structures for back-up power as well as steps to follow in times of network

breakdown or crashing of servers. It also includes when, where, and how to back up data, and

how to store copies of data [ CITATION Wee19 \l 1033 ]. It is a good practice to undertake daily

backing up of important data [ CITATION Wee19 \l 1033 ]. Backup files are supposed to be stored in

off-site locations that are secure to help in case of building disasters like fire.

Expansion

The network design should have built allowances for expansion in the future. Since the

demands on a computer network might increase with organizational growth, the design should

put such future growth into consideration [ CITATION McC19 \l 1033 ]. Building a network with

allowance for expansion will ensure network devices over service for many years without the

need for new devices.

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References

Dsparks. (2018, June 26). 4 Key Factors to Consider When Creating an IT Network.

Stratosphere Networks, p. 1.

McCuhil, F. (2019, May 1). Five Things to Be Considered in Designing a Network. Azcentral, p.

1.

Weedmark, D. (2019, January 31). Five Things to Be Considered in Designing a Network.

Chron: Small Businesses, p. 1.