Network Analysis report
Assignment
- A coversheet with your name and student id must be included.
- All references should be appropriately cited using the Harvard style
- Submit your report as one PDF file
- Save your file as follows: [student numberA1.filetype] e.g. 1234567A1.pdf or 1234567A1.doc
- Submit your report via the Blackboard link > Assessment > Assignment 1
Network Analysis Report
The main task of is assignment is to start you thinking about data networks and what sorts of functions they can fulfil within different environments. Your first step will be to select a data network that you are familiar with, try choosing one you use on a regular basis. For example, at your workplace or home. Your next step is to research the function and purpose of all the various hardware and software components that interconnect and interact to provide this functioning network (think about the 7 layer OSI model).
Networks are rarely isolated islands. One network is usually connected to other networks to provide global reach. Therefore, when looking at your chosen network don't limit yourself just to the local infrastructure. For example most networks share access to the Internet via an ISP which they may be leasing broadband lines from another supplier. Consider if this is the case for you and also what other networks you may have access to.
Details and Requirements
1. Provide a brief overview of your chosen network i.e. what's its main purpose, how many users and devices it supports.
2. Using software create a simple network diagram that depicts your chosen network (Powerpoint will be adequate). Show how the components interact and what other networks you may be connect to.
3. Provide a short written description about key components in your network and how they interact.
For example: A short description about the attributes of the cabling you may be using (e.g. why CAT 5 is better to use than the older CAT 4 cables - you may also want to explain why you have decided to use wi-fi for some devices and not others) Conversely you may indicate in your diagram that you use a firewall. This is a complex device and provides an important function. Therefore, it should be covered in your written description.
4. Outline a brief description of three (3) network based applications being used on your network (e.g. email, Skype, web browsing etc..)
5. Provide a brief overview of the protocols used by those network applications in transferring data from one point to another.
6. Identify two (2) areas in which your network could be improved upon.
#Hypothetical devices can be included if your network is modest. All assignments should feature more than 5 devices.
The next areas you need to address are the applications you use or are available across the network(s) such as email, web surfing and maybe file sharing. Most IT infrastructure is built to fulfil a number of functions. For example: to provide access to financial systems; as a method of resource sharing; as a means of communication etc. Have a look at your own network and consider the various functions it provides to you and others. Briefly discuss the transport protocols required for this information to be able to be transferred from one location to another. Once you have completed this component of this assignment you should have a better appreciation of the various components that help build networks and how their interaction helps to meet specific requirements and needs.
You must use the Swinburne Harvard Referencing style throughout your report and include an accurate list of references at the end of the report. You can access the correct style from the library: Harvard System (http://www.swinburne.edu.au/lib/researchhelp/harvard_system.htm)
*Appendix at the end of your report with any additional supportive resources not included in the main body of the report.
Pages of the report should have appropriate headers and footers and should include printed page numbers The report should be written in 11-12 point font size and should use no more than 1/1.5 line spacing between each line