Assignment Brief 1 (RQF)

Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Computing

Student Name/ID Number: Truong Tran Anh Khoa/GCS210818

Unit Number and Title: Unit 2: Networking
Academic Year: 2021 – 2022
Unit Assessor: Van Ho
Assignment Title: Networking Infrastructure
Issue Date: April 1st, 2021
Submission Date:
Internal Verifier Name:
Date:

Submission Format:

Format:

● The submission is in the form of an individual written report. This should be written in a concise,
formal business style using single spacing and font size 12. You are required to make use of
headings, paragraphs and subsections as appropriate, and all work must be supported with research
and referenced using the Harvard referencing system. Please also provide a bibliography using the
Harvard referencing system.

Submission

● Students are compulsory to submit the assignment in due date and in a way requested by the
Tutor.
● The form of submission will be a soft copy posted on http://cms.greenwich.edu.vn/.
● Remember to convert the word file into PDF file before the submission on CMS.

Note:

● The individual Assignment must be your own work, and not copied by or from another student.
● If you use ideas, quotes or data (such as diagrams) from books, journals or other sources, you
must reference your sources, using the Harvard style.
● Make sure that you understand and follow the guidelines to avoid plagiarism. Failure to comply
this requirement will result in a failed assignment.

Unit Learning Outcomes:

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LO1 Examine networking principles and their protocols.

LO2 Explain networking devices and operations.

Assignment Brief and Guidance:

Assignment scenario
You are employed as a network engineer by Nguyen Networking Limited, a high-tech networking
solution development company, which has branches in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang and Can Tho.
The company has been contracted to implement a networking project from a local educational institute.
The specification of the project is given below:
• People: 200 students, 15 teachers, 12 marketing and administration staff, 5 higher managers
including the academic heads and the programme managers, and 3 computer network
administrators.
• Resources: 50 student lab computers, 35 staff computers, and 3 printers.
• Building: 3 floors, all computers and printers are on the ground floor apart from the IT labs – one
lab located on the first floor and another located on the second floor.
Task 1
The CEO of the company, Mr. Nguyen, has asked you to investigate and explain networking principles,
protocols and devices and submit a report.
You will need to produce a report that includes the following:
• An introduction to provide an overview of your report.
• Benefits and constraints of different types of networks and networking standards.
• The impact of network topology, speed of communication and bandwidth requirements.
• Effectiveness of networking systems.
• Discussion on operating principles of networking devices and server types and networking
software.
• Discuss the relationship of workstation hardware with networking software.
• Explore a range of server types and justify the selection of a server, considering a given scenario
regarding cost and performance optimization.
• For the given specification, identify the topology protocol for the efficient utilization of a
networking system.

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 Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria (Assignment 1):
Learning Outcome Pass Merit Distinction
LO1 P1 Discuss the M1 Compare common D1 Considering a
benefits and networking principles given scenario,
constraints of different and how protocols identify the topology
network types and enable the protocol selected for
standards. effectiveness of the efficient utilization
networked systems. of a networking
P2 Explain the impact system.
of network topology,
communication and
bandwidth
requirements.
LO2 P3 Discuss the M2 Explore a range of
operating principles of server types and
networking devices justify the selection of
and server types. a server, considering a
given scenario
P4 Discuss the inter- regarding cost and
dependence of performance
workstation hardware optimisation.
with relevant
networking software.

Table of Contents
Assignment Brief 1 (RQF) ................................................................................................................................ 1
Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Computing ..................................................................................... 1
P1.Discuss the benefits and constraints of different network types and standards. ........................................... 4
1.Networks and Their Types ......................................................................................................................... 4
2.Network Protocols and Standards............................................................................................................... 6
3.International Standard Organizations: ........................................................................................................ 7
P2.Explain the impact of network topology, communication and bandwidth requirements. ............................ 7
1.Network Topology...................................................................................................................................... 7
2.Network Communication and Bandwidth Requirements ........................................................................... 9
P3.Discuss the operating principles of networking devices and server types. ................................................ 10
1.Networking Devices: ................................................................................................................................ 10
2.Other Common Networking Devices: ...................................................................................................... 11
3.Common Types of Servers: ...................................................................................................................... 12
P4.Discuss the inter-dependence of workstation hardware with relevant networking software. .................... 13
Explain the meaning of the inter-dependence ................................................................................................. 13
Real example of Interdependence.................................................................................................................... 13

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Definition of workstation ................................................................................................................................ 13
Definition of Networking Software ................................................................................................................. 14
Discuss and explain the inter-dependencies of workstation hardware with networking software. ................. 14
Example of Inter-dependencies between Workstation Hardware and Networking Software ......................... 16
Reference: ........................................................................................................................................................ 16

P1.Discuss the benefits and constraints of different network types and

standards.

1.Networks and Their Types

Definition of Network:
A network is a collection of computers, servers, mainframes, network devices, or
other devices connected to one another to allow the sharing of data and resources.
Networks facilitate communication and collaboration by enabling data transfer and
resource sharing.
Types of Networks:
1. Local Area Network (LAN):
- Benefits:
- High data transfer rates due to limited distance.
- Easy to set up and manage.
- Cost-effective for small areas.
- Enhanced security as it is confined to a smaller physical area.
- Constraints:
- Limited to a small geographical area.
- Limited scalability without significant reconfiguration.
- Potentially higher maintenance for individual devices.
2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
- Benefits:
- Covers larger areas than LANs, such as cities or large campuses.
- Can connect multiple LANs, facilitating resource sharing across larger distances.
- More efficient and cost-effective for large urban areas.

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 - Constraints:
- More complex and expensive to set up and maintain than a LAN.
- Requires management of higher amounts of data traffic.
3. Wide Area Network (WAN):
- Benefits:
- Covers very large geographical areas, such as countries or continents.
- Connects multiple LANs and MANs, enabling long-distance communication and
resource sharing.
- Essential for large organizations with multiple locations.
- Constraints:
- Expensive to set up and maintain.
- Lower data transfer rates compared to LANs and MANs due to long distances.
- Higher latency and potential for data loss over vast distances.
4. Personal Area Network (PAN):
- Benefits:
- Typically involves short-range wireless communication, such as Bluetooth.
- Ideal for connecting personal devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Constraints:
- Limited range (a few meters).
- Limited number of devices can be connected simultaneously.
- Lower data transfer rates compared to LAN.
5. Storage Area Network (SAN):
- Benefits:
- High-speed network that provides access to consolidated block-level data
storage.
- Improves storage efficiency and performance.
- Centralized management of storage resources.
- Constraints:
- Expensive to implement and maintain.
- Requires specialized knowledge to manage.
- Potentially complex infrastructure.

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2.Network Protocols and Standards

Definition of Network Protocol:

A network protocol is a set of rules and conventions for communication between
network devices. These protocols ensure that data is transmitted accurately and
efficiently across networks.
Common Network Protocols:
1. TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol):
- Purpose: Provides end-to-end data communication specifying how data should be
packetized, addressed, transmitted, routed, and received.
- Benefits: Reliable, widely used, ensures data integrity and delivery.
- Constraints: Can be complex to manage and configure.
2. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol):
- Purpose: Used for transmitting hypertext over the internet, enabling web
browsing.
- Benefits: Foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web.
- Constraints: Stateless protocol; each request is independent, which can lead to
inefficiencies.
3. DNS (Domain Name System):
- Purpose: Translates human-friendly domain names to IP addresses.
- Benefits: Simplifies internet navigation for users.
- Constraints: DNS servers can be targets for attacks, such as DNS spoofing.
4. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol):
- Purpose: Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.
- Benefits: Simplifies network administration, reduces configuration errors.
- Constraints: Central point of failure; if the DHCP server goes down, new devices
cannot join the network.
5. ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol):
- Purpose: Used by network devices to send error messages and operational
information.
- Benefits: Helps diagnose network problems, such as unreachable hosts.
- Constraints: Can be used for malicious purposes, such as DDoS attacks.
International Standard Organizations and Networking Standards

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3.International Standard Organizations:

1. IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers):

- Standards:IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi).
2. ISO (International Organization for Standardization):
- Standards:ISO/IEC 7498-1 (OSI Model).
3. IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force):
- Standards: RFCs (Request for Comments), such as RFC 791 (IP), RFC 793
(TCP).
4. ITU (International Telecommunication Union):
- Standards:ITU-T G.992 (ADSL), ITU-T H.323 (VoIP).
These organizations develop and maintain standards to ensure interoperability,
reliability, and compatibility across various networking technologies and protocols.
They play a critical role in the evolution and implementation of network
technologies, ensuring that devices and systems from different manufacturers can
work together seamlessly.

P2.Explain the impact of network topology, communication and bandwidth

requirements.

1.Network Topology
Definition of Network Topology:
Network topology refers to the arrangement of various elements (links, nodes, etc.) in
a computer network. It describes how different nodes (like computers, printers, and
other devices) are physically or logically connected.
Physical Topology:
Physical topology describes the actual layout of the network, including the physical
connections (wires, cables, etc.) between the nodes.
Logical Topology:
Logical topology refers to the way data flows within a network, independent of its
physical design. It focuses on the path taken by data packets across the network.
Difference between Physical and Logical Topology:
Physical Topology: Deals with the physical layout of devices and cabling.
Logical Topology: Deals with how data moves across the network, which may differ
from the physical connections.
Popular Topologies:

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Mesh Topology:
Advantages:
-Highly reliable due to multiple paths for data transmission.
-Fault-tolerant; if one link fails, data can take another path.
Disadvantages:
-Expensive and complex to install and manage due to numerous connections.
-Requires more cables and configuration compared to other topologies.
Star Topology:
Advantages:
-Easy to install and manage.
-Failure of one node doesn’t affect the rest of the network.
Disadvantages:
-Central hub is a single point of failure; if it fails, the entire network goes down.
-Requires more cable than some other topologies (e.g., bus topology).
Bus Topology:
Advantages:
-Easy and inexpensive to set up for small networks.
-Requires less cable than star topology.
Disadvantages:
-Difficult to troubleshoot; a failure in the main cable stops all transmission.
-Limited cable length and number of nodes.
Ring Topology:
Advantages:
-Data packets travel in one direction, reducing the chance of data collisions.
-Can offer better performance than bus topology under heavy load.
Disadvantages:
-Failure of a single node or link can disrupt the entire network.
-More complex to install and manage than bus or star topologies.
Tree Topology:
Advantages:
-Hierarchical, easy to manage and scale.

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-Combines characteristics of star and bus topologies.
Disadvantages:
-If the backbone line breaks, the entire segment goes down.
-More cabling and more complex than bus topology.
Hybrid Topology:
Advantages:
-Combines the strengths of various topologies.
-Flexible and scalable.
Disadvantages:
-Can be complex and expensive to design and maintain.
-Troubleshooting can be difficult.
2.Network Communication and Bandwidth Requirements

Definition of Network Communication:

-Network communication refers to the exchange of data between devices in a
network. This involves sending and receiving data packets following specific rules
and protocols.
Rules in the Network:
-Network rules, also known as protocols, are essential to ensure proper
communication and data transfer between devices. These rules govern how data is
formatted, transmitted, received, and acknowledged.
Common Rules/Protocols:
-TCP/IP: Manages how data is packetized, addressed, transmitted, routed, and
received.
-HTTP: Governs the transmission of web pages.
-DNS: Translates domain names to IP addresses.
-DHCP: Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices.
Why These Rules are Needed:
-Ensure reliable data transmission.
-Facilitate communication between devices from different manufacturers.
-Prevent data collisions and errors.
-Manage network traffic efficiently.
Definition of Bandwidth:

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Bandwidth is the maximum rate of data transfer across a given path. It is usually
measured in bits per second (bps).
Importance of Bandwidth Requirements:
-Determines the capacity of a network to handle data traffic.
-Essential for ensuring smooth and efficient communication, especially for high-
demand applications like video streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.
-Helps in planning and scaling network infrastructure to meet current and future
demands.
Impact of Topology on Communication and Bandwidth:
-Mesh Topology: High reliability and redundancy, suitable for networks requiring
high availability, but requires significant bandwidth management due to multiple
redundant paths.
-Star Topology: Simplified bandwidth management due to central hub, but central
hub must handle high traffic load, which may necessitate high bandwidth capacity.
-Bus Topology: Limited by the capacity of the main cable; bandwidth is shared
among all devices, which can lead to congestion.
-Ring Topology: Offers dedicated bandwidth per connection, but a break in the ring
can severely impact network performance.
-Tree Topology: Easier to manage bandwidth in a hierarchical structure but relies
heavily on the backbone, which must support high bandwidth.
-Hybrid Topology: Flexible in managing bandwidth due to combined features of
various topologies, but requires careful planning to avoid bottlenecks.
Understanding these elements is crucial for designing efficient and robust networks
that can meet specific communication and bandwidth needs.

P3.Discuss the operating principles of networking devices and server types.

1.Networking Devices:
1. Switches:
Switches operate at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. They are used to
connect devices within a LAN (Local Area Network). A switch receives data packets,
processes them, and forwards them to the intended destination device based on MAC
(Media Access Control) addresses.
Operation:
Packet Switching: Switches use packet switching to receive, process, and forward
data packets.

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MAC Address Table: Switches maintain a MAC address table to keep track of the
MAC addresses associated with each port.
Collision Domains: Each port on a switch creates a separate collision domain,
reducing collisions and improving network efficiency.
Advantages:
-Enhances network performance by reducing collisions.
-Supports full-duplex communication, allowing simultaneous send and receive
operations.
2. Routers:
Routers operate at the Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. They are used to
connect multiple networks, such as connecting a LAN to a WAN (Wide Area
Network). Routers determine the best path for data packets to travel from the source
to the destination based on IP addresses.
Operation:
Routing Table: Routers use routing tables to determine the best path for data packets.
Routing Protocols: Routers utilize protocols like OSPF (Open Shortest Path First)
and BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) to communicate with other routers and update
routing tables.
Packet Forwarding: Routers examine the destination IP address of a packet, consult
the routing table, and forward the packet to the appropriate next hop.
Advantages:
-Connects different network architectures.
-Facilitates efficient data routing across large and complex networks.
2.Other Common Networking Devices:

1. Gateway:
A gateway operates at multiple layers of the OSI model and acts as a bridge between
different networks that use different protocols. It can translate data formats,
protocols, or both.
Use:
Connecting a company’s intranet to the internet.
Bridging different networking technologies, such as VoIP (Voice over IP) to
traditional phone networks.
2. Firewall:

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A firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing
network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It operates at the Network
layer (Layer 3) and sometimes at the Transport layer (Layer 4).
Use:
Protecting internal networks from unauthorized access.
Filtering traffic to prevent malicious activities, such as malware and hacking
attempts.
3.Common Types of Servers:

1. DHCP Server (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol Server):

A DHCP server automatically assigns IP addresses and other network configuration
parameters to devices in a network, allowing them to communicate efficiently.
Use: Simplifies network administration by automating IP address management.
Example: In a large corporate network, a DHCP server assigns IP addresses to
employees’ devices as they connect to the network.
2. DNS Server (Domain Name System Server):
A DNS server translates human-friendly domain names (like www.example.com)
into IP addresses (like 192.168.1.1) that computers use to identify each other on the
network.
Use: Essential for internet navigation and accessing websites.
Example: When a user types a web address in their browser, the DNS server
translates it into an IP address that the browser uses to fetch the web page.
3. Web Server:
A web server stores, processes, and delivers web pages to clients (browsers) using the
HTTP or HTTPS protocols.
Use: Hosts websites and web applications.
Example: A company’s website is hosted on a web server, making it accessible to
users via the internet.
4. File Server:
A file server provides a centralized location for storing and managing files, allowing
users to share files over a network.
Use: Facilitates file sharing and collaboration within an organization.
Example: Employees can access shared documents and files stored on a file server.
5. Mail Server:
A mail server handles the sending, receiving, and storage of email messages.

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Use: Manages email communications for organizations and individuals.
Example: An organization’s mail server ensures that emails are delivered to the
appropriate recipients and stores messages for later retrieval.
Understanding the roles and operations of these networking devices and server types
is crucial for designing and maintaining efficient, secure, and scalable networks. Each
device and server type serves specific functions that collectively ensure smooth and
reliable network operations.

P4.Discuss the inter-dependence of workstation hardware with relevant

networking software.

Explain the meaning of the inter-dependence

Interdependence refers to a relationship where the needs of one subject can be met by
the resources of another, with resource transfer occurring in both directions. This
means both parties rely on each other to satisfy their needs. Such relationships are
common in many areas, as humans often require the assistance of others to thrive. In
the business world, organizations depend on each other in various ways.

Real example of Interdependence

Take the flour industry as an example. One person focuses on growing crops, another
on milling, another on packing, distributing, and eventually selling the flour. They all
rely on each other to produce the final product. If the mill stops operating one day,
everyone in the chain is impacted. This illustrates their interdependence.

Definition of workstation

A computer network consists of multiple computers that share resources hosted on or

provided by network nodes. These computers communicate with each other using
standard communication protocols over digital connections.

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Definition of Networking Software

Network software is essential for any networking system, aiding administrators and
security personnel in reducing network complexities, and managing, monitoring, and
controlling network traffic more effectively. It plays a vital role in managing network
infrastructure and streamlining IT operations by enabling communication, security,
content, and data sharing.

Discuss and explain the inter-dependencies of workstation hardware with

networking software.

The inter-dependencies between workstation hardware and networking software refer

to the close relationship between a computer's physical components and the software
that facilitates network connectivity and communication. The performance and
capabilities of the workstation's hardware significantly influence the efficiency and
effectiveness of the networking software, which, in turn, depends on the hardware to

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operate correctly. Let's explore the main inter-dependencies, providing illustrations to
enhance the explanation.

Explain the figure : Hardware and software are mutually dependent in their
interaction. Computers can only produce useful results when both work together.
Using software necessitates the use of hardware. In software, users interact with
hardware similarly to how they do on a computer. Often, hardware and software are
closely linked, with each expected to collaborate to provide valuable results for the
computer. Any hardware device must be supported for a program to function; without
proper instructions, the hardware becomes inoperable (2022).

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Example of Inter-dependencies between Workstation Hardware and
Networking Software

Consider a software application built to operate on a personal computer. This

application is specifically designed to leverage the unique hardware components of
that computer, including the processor, memory, and graphics card. It is closely
integrated with the hardware, making direct calls to specific hardware features to
execute tasks efficiently.

Reference:

FZE, B.B. (2023) Explain the impact of network topology, communication and
bandwidth requirements, UKEssays. Available at:
https://www.ukessays.com/essays/information-systems/explain-the-impact-of-
network-topology-communication-and-bandwidth-requirements.php (Accessed: 04
June 2024).
A guide to network devices (no date) Restorepoint. Available at:
https://www.restorepoint.com/topics/a-guide-to-network-devices (Accessed: 04 June
2024).
Network devices (hub, repeater, Bridge, switch, router, gateways and Brouter) (2024)
GeeksforGeeks. Available at: https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/network-devices-hub-
repeater-bridge-switch-router-gateways/ (Accessed: 04 June 2024).
Siddharthjh (2023) Benefits and constraints of different network types, Desklib.
Available at: https://desklib.com/document/benefits-and-constraints-of-different-ne/
(Accessed: 04 June 2024).
Ballejos, L. et al. (2024) What is a workstation?: Definition & overview, NinjaOne.
Available at: https://www.ninjaone.com/it-hub/endpoint-management/what-is-a-
workstation/ (Accessed: 04 June 2024).

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