Objective 6
6. Demonstrate security principles within networking solutions based on industry standards.
Projects
Project 1 - 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 6 -
This project aligns strongly with Objective 6 by demonstrating modern security principles within a network solution based on industry standards. I applied Zero Trust principles, integrated MFA and RBAC for identity and access management, and incorporated cloud security services compliant with HIPAA regulations. Additionally, endpoint protection, secure network segmentation, web filtering, and user awareness training were included to address evolving cybersecurity threats. The final design showcases a layered, standards-driven approach to securing enterprise network environments.
Project 2 - Future Proofing - Network Design
Class - NTW:275 - Network Infrastructure Design
Professor - Sarah Bunce
Assignment - Assignment 10.1: Future-Proofing Network Design
Summary -
In this project, you explored how to future-proof network designs by integrating emerging technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI). You discussed real-world use cases like smart city traffic management using IoT sensors, scalable cloud deployments using Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Virtual Network Functions (VNF), and AI-driven network monitoring to predict and prevent performance bottlenecks. You also outlined how to build flexible, scalable, and modular networks that adapt to evolving technology demands while balancing performance, cost, and security. Practical strategies for risk management, phased implementation, and employee training were also included to ensure a smooth adoption of these advanced systems.
Why This Project Meets Objective 6 -
This project directly addresses network designs that incorporate IoT and mobile-friendly technologies alongside traditional networking infrastructure. You described the integration of IoT devices for real-time data collection, cloud-based resource expansion for scalable operations, and AI systems for adaptive management. You also tied it all together with modern networking techniques like SDN and edge computing. Your approach to blending traditional architecture (routers, switches) with IoT devices, mobile-friendly remote access, and cloud services clearly fulfills the requirement of creating networking solutions that unify traditional, IoT, and mobile elements into a future-ready network.
Project 3 - Organizational Requirements for Network Design
Class - NTW:275 - Network Infrastructure Design
Professor - Sarah Bunce
Assignment - Assignment 6.1: Analyzing Organizational Requirements for Network Design
Summary -
In this project, I designed a complete network architecture plan for TQL, a logistics company requiring 99.99% uptime and secure, scalable connectivity. My security strategy included deploying Cisco Firepower 3105 firewalls with intrusion prevention and URL filtering, implementing IPSec and SSL VPN solutions using Cisco AnyConnect for remote access, and creating VLAN segmentation to control traffic between internal departments. I incorporated proactive monitoring with SolarWinds and Syslog servers for real-time threat detection and log auditing, and emphasized encryption and strict access controls across WAN and remote access connections. The design also included redundancy at multiple levels to ensure availability even during security incidents or network failures.
Why This Project Meets Objective 6 -
This project demonstrates a strong application of security principles based on industry standards by integrating layered defenses into the network design. I showcase best practices such as securing remote access with encrypted VPN tunnels, segmenting the internal network with VLANs for access control, deploying next-generation firewalls for intrusion prevention, and using centralized logging for auditability and incident response. I selected enterprise-grade Cisco security products and configured them with recognized protocols like SSL, IPSec, and DMVPN, my design shows a deep understanding of how to build resilient, secure network environments that align with modern cybersecurity frameworks.