Networking Report
The network diagram comprises three departments, each with a single computer station accessing the Local Area Network (LAN). The setup is ideal for medium and small companies that require centralized servers for easy data sharing and storage. Identified components and associated roles in the configuration include:
Computers
Provide the user interface, which allows the user to send to access files from the server, work on the data and store it in required formats. Each computer is representative of a different work department.
Internet/Cloud
The Ethernet cable illustrates the component and represents the media through which data is transferred from one point in the network to the other. Data can come from one or several internet service provider (ISPs). The Ethernet provides connectivity to the entire network and is the most extensively installed component.
Router/Firewall
The router is a device responsible for determining the next destination point for data packets transmitted over the network. The router determines which packets will be relayed per the status of the network. According to the image, the router also contains firewall software, which provides basic security against unwarranted cyber access. The firewall acts as a point of defense between two or more networks, using encryption to protect data in public networks.
Server
The server is computer hardware and software responsible for providing the network user with service. The dedicated machine runs a server program that inputs and fulfills user requests. The three departments will use the centralized server to access shared data and digital resources.
Printer
The printer is responsible for outputting data requested by the client in a paper format. Printers facilitate the conversion of data from digital files to paper-based records for alternative storage.
Missing Components
Network Switch and Bridges
Switches are critical in segmenting a network while facilitating multiple node connections. A switch is configured to offer communication pathways between different stations for better traffic management. If the network had two or more hosts, a bridge would be included to establish a single aggregate network. Switches and bridges are essential for identifying network errors and malevolent traffic targeting the server.
Modem
A modem is a device used to convert data between analog and digital in telephone lines connected to computers. The inclusion of the device would allow the network to be accessed remotely. Users of the technology would benefit from time and cost reductions.
Database Report
The first project milestone instructs that the system upgrades should begin in April and run in intervals. The Milestone Two database comprises four table stores:
- Computer Information: Contains information on the computer ID, user and whether it has advanced software.
- Employee Information: In regular view, the store contains data on employee name, job title, contact details, location, and employee ID. In the design view, change the mobile data type to number format.
- Job Title: Contains all the different job positions assigned to workers.
- Upgrade Information: Includes information on the operating system, upgrade date and computer ID. In the design view, the user can allocate upgrade date and time in number format. Below is the broken-down process for upgrading the operating system:
- Open Microsoft Access database and select the preferred data store
- Open the upgrade information store in the design view
- Alter the date and time data type from text and save
- Close and reopen the table store
- Select the upgrade date column and input the desired date for advancing the operating system.
- Save data and close the data store.
- In the upper left column of the interface, select RUN.
- Select ‘upgrade group’ and arrange the data tables alphabetically.
Once the new dates have been entered into the table, the query is ready to run to input the introduced data. The new information is equally stored in tables. The client can view the data in different configurations using Microsoft Access Database.