LAN network design and infrastructure of UTeM’s network connecting Computer Centre to the 10 subnetworks

Figure 1: Network Diagram

Figure 2: Overall Network Diagram

Networking devices 

The networking device used in this network diagram is a router. The router is used to help data travel across interconnected networks. The LAN network is connected to external networks, such as the Internet or other networks within UTeM. A router can forward data to the correct network in a way that is similar to a switch’s method. A router uses the most efficient path available to forward packets to their destination, which may be located across a great geographical distance.

Topology

The topology used in this network diagram is star topology as it allows for centralized management and control of the network. The router as a central hub allows the network traffic to be monitored easier. Besides managing the network traffic, it also allows troubleshooting issues to be managed easier and implement changes or updates. Overall, star topology improves the network efficiency in this network diagram. In addition, star topology provides scalability which allows easy expansion and addition of devices to the network. New devices can be connected to the central router without disturbing other networks. Thus, scalability allows the future network to be expanded in case the number of users keeps increasing year by year. Furthermore, in a star topology, if one link connecting a device to the central hub fails, the rest of the network will remain unaffected. However, the other devices that are connected to the router will remain uninterrupted. Each device maintains its connection to the hub independently, so the failure of one link does not disrupt the overall network.

Communication media

The communication media that we used in this network diagram is fiber optic cable.To transfer data as light pulses, fiber optic cables use tiny glass or plastic fiber strands. They provide low latency, high bandwidth, and insulation against electromagnetic interference. High-speed internet connections and long-distance communication both frequently use fiber optic lines. This is because they can carry a huge amount of data over a long distance without any significant loss in signal quality which makes it the best for data centers. Beside that, fiber optic cables also can transmit data at very high speeds. Hence, it can improve overall network performance. Moreover, fiber optic cable has a very wide range of distance where it is suitable to use for network in university.