Objective 3
3. Identify networking misconfigurations and determine solutions to achieve optimal performance.
Project 1 - ARP Inspection and DHCP Snooping Assignment
Class - NTW:275 - Network Infrastructure Design
Professor - Sarah Bunce
Assignment - Assignment 9.1: ARP Inspection and DHCP Snooping
Summary -
In this assignment, I explored various security features, including DHCP Snooping, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard, and 802.1X. I demonstrated how DHCP Snooping works by creating a binding table that identifies trusted devices and prevents rogue DHCP servers from assigning IP addresses. The write-up explains how DAI protects against ARP poisoning by validating ARP packets against the records from DHCP Snooping. Additionally, I discussed methods such as IP Source Guard and 802.1X as layered defenses against man-in-the-middle attacks.explains how DAI protects against ARP poisoning by validating ARP packets against DHCP Snooping records. Additional methods such as IP Source Guard and 802.1X were discussed as layered defenses against man-in-the-middle attacks.​
Why This Project Meets Objective 3 -
This assignment aligns with Objective 3 by identifying common misconfigurations and vulnerabilities in network design, specifically focusing on unauthorized IP assignments and ARP-based attacks. It demonstrates how to configure network devices to detect and prevent these issues using built-in security features, thereby enhancing performance and establishing trust in network operations.
Project 2 - The hands on Final - The NetBroke
Class - NTW:103 - Foundation of Network Security
Professor - Jeremy Bunce
Assignment - The Hands-On Final: The Netbroke
Summary -
In this final exam project, I was presented with a broken business network in Cisco Packet Tracer. My task was to diagnose and fix various issues across all layers of the OSI model. This included resolving a major network outage, restoring internet connectivity for specific users, fixing VoIP phone service, configuring a new subnet for the Business Intelligence team, securing the router with proper password protection, and setting up a secure wireless network for managers.
Why This Project Meets Objective 3 -
This assignment directly supports Objective 3 by requiring me to identify various networking misconfigurations and systematically correct them to restore optimal network performance. I addressed issues such as IP misassignments, VLAN problems, DNS failures, and missing security configurations. By using tools like ping, ipconfig, and router show commands, I practiced diagnosing these problems. Successfully resolving each issue reinforced my ability to work efficiently under pressure in real-world networking environments.
Project 3 - Network Design Evaluation - Final Project
Class - NTW:275 - Network Infrastructure Design
Professor - Sarah Bunce
Assignment - Assignment 15.1: Network Design Evaluation and Final Project
Summary -
In this final project, I revisited a small doctor's office network design that I created earlier in the course and conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its performance, scalability, security, and redundancy. Based on my findings, I proposed several improvements, including upgrading to enterprise-level hardware, implementing a Zero Trust security model, integrating cloud services through AWS, and establishing redundancy with dual ISPs and cloud backups. I also considered the cost implications and developed a phased implementation plan to ensure minimal disruption to operations. The project included updated network diagrams that reflect the enhanced design.
Why This Project Meets Objective 3 -
This project is aligned with Objective 3, as it involves a critical analysis of a previously designed network. I identified areas where the network did not meet organizational needs or industry standards and proposed detailed technical solutions to address these shortcomings. Through this evaluation, I demonstrated my ability to diagnose weaknesses such as limited scalability, insufficient security layers, and a lack of disaster recovery planning. I then designed an improved network architecture that optimizes performance, enhances reliability, and meets modern security expectations.