INFRASTRUCTURE OF UTeM'S COMPUTER CENTRE

 

Figure 1: UTeM's Computer Centre Infrastructure

  

    The Computer Center proposed LAN network infrastructure includes a number of networking components that are essential to creating a stable and effective network environment. These gadgets include wireless access points (WAPs), switches, and routers.

Network Devices

    The networking devices such as routers, switches, and wireless access points (WAPs) are necessary networking components for this configuration. The LAN network must be connected to the internet and other networks via routers. To enable effective communication between the devices on the local network, switches will be utilised to connect them. Throughout the LAN, wireless access points (WAPs) will offer wireless connectivity for gadgets including computers, cellphones, and tablets. The Computer Center proposed LAN network infrastructure includes a number of networking components that are essential to creating a stable and effective network environment. These gadgets include wireless access points (WAPs), switches, and routers.

    For the LAN network to be connected to the internet and other networks, routers are a necessary component. They serve as gateways, allowing communication between the neighbourhood network and the global internet. Data packets are intelligently routed by routers, ensuring that information effectively reaches its intended destination. In the framework of the Computer Centre, routers will support user internet connectivity, enable contact with external networks, and facilitate easy access to online resources.

    On the other hand, switches are essential for tying together devices inside the local network. They function as communication hubs for numerous devices, including computers, servers, and printers. Switches ensure effective data transport within the LAN by accepting data packets from one device and selectively transmitting them to the desired location. Switches will be deployed in the Computer Centre at strategic locations on each floor to build local networks that connect various devices in each area.

    For the LAN to have wireless connectivity, wireless access points (WAPs) are necessary. Laptops, cellphones, and tablets can connect to the network without physical cable connections thanks to WAPs, which transmit and receive wireless signals. The Computer Centre will have these access points strategically positioned to provide dependable and seamless wireless connectivity within their coverage regions.

Topology

    The Computer Centre's physical layout will be based on a star topology, with a central network switch connecting various devices on each floor to other devices on other floors. With this configuration, communication between devices on each floor and the central switch is assured without the need for traffic to traverse through switches on other floors.

    To create a hierarchical and scalable structure, a logical topology will be implemented. The core switch will be the main network switch, which is on the ground floor. Network traffic from all floors is distributed centrally from this core switch. The switches on each floor will be linked to the main switch to create a structure that resembles a tree. This hierarchical method enhances data flow, lessens network sluggishness, and permits effective floor-to-floor communication.

Communication Media

    The choice of communication media will be made depending on variables including distance, needed bandwidth, and financial constraints. Ethernet cables will be used for wired connections. The high-speed communication offered by these cables guarantees quick data transfer between devices and switches. They will be used to establish connections between switches and to link devices on each floor to their corresponding switches.

    Fibre optic cables will be used for long-distance connections, particularly between the core switch and floor switches. Fibre optic cables are excellent for sending huge amounts of data over extended distances since they have high bandwidth capacities. The LAN network can accomplish quick and effective communication between floors thanks to the use of fibre optics for these connections.

    Wi-Fi technology will be used to implement wireless services in addition to standard connections. Within their coverage regions, wireless connectivity will be provided through wireless access points (WAPs) that have been positioned strategically on each floor. This eliminates the need for physical connections by enabling users to connect their wireless devices, such as laptops and cellphones, to the LAN network. The addition of wireless connectivity expands the Computer Centre flexibility and mobility by allowing customers to access network resources from a variety of locations.