Chapter 2 Network Infrastructure Plan

The researchers used the Top-down Methodology for this study. Before, a data communications project even gets to the formal feasibility studies which are part of the development methodology that is proposed, it is useful to make a top-down, qualitative evaluation of a proposed data communications system. The Top-Down Methodology is a solution-oriented approach that focuses on particular business and technical objectives of an organization.

The top-down network design process includes exploring divisional and group structures to find the people for whom the network will provide services and from whom you should get valuable information to make the design succeed.

During the design project, several techniques and models can be used to characterize the existing system, new user requirements, and a structure for the future system. It is analogous to the methods utilized for the structured network design.

Figure 1 shows the network design methodology phases which include analyze requirements, develop logical design, develop physical layer, test, optimize and document, implement and test network, and monitor and optimize network performance.

In this phase, the researchers will interview users and technical personnel to gain an understanding of the business and technical goals for a new or enhanced system. Phase 2: Develop the logical design. This phase deals with a logical topology for the new or enhanced network, network layer addressing, naming, and switching and routing protocols. Logical design also includes security planning, network management design, and the initial investigation into which service providers can meet WAN and remote access requirements.

In this phase the researchers will also be conducting interview to the assigned IT personnel of PWU. And to further understand to the current network logical design The researchers will be studying documents such as the current configurations the devices of the current network infrastructure of the PWU. Phase 3: Develop the physical design. During the physical design phase, specific technologies and products to realize the logical design are selected. Also, the investigation into service providers, which began during the logical design phase, must be completed during this phase.

Phase 4: Test, Optimize, and Document the Design. The final steps in top-down network design are to write and implement a test plan, build a prototype or pilot, optimize the network design, and document your work with a network design proposal. Phase 5: Implement and Test Network. The Designed and optimized network is implemented for use. Phase 6: Monitor and Optimize Network Performance. All day to day operation and maintenance are covered in this final phase. Data Gathering Techniques

In order to design a Network Infrastructure plan for Philippine Women’s University Direct interviews were used as data gathering techniques. Direct interview is a method of person to person exchange between the interviewer and the interviewee. The interview method provides consistent and more precise information since clarification may be given by the interviewee. Direct Interview. The researchers were able to talk directly to the assigned IT personnel. Ocular Inspection. The researchers will be conducting inspections to the current network infrastructure guided by the
assigned IT Personel. Source of Data

Direct interview are essential source of information and are primary instruments in gathering the needed data.
Direct Interview. The researchers were able to talk directly to the HR Assistant, BSHRM instructor, and the assigned IT personel of Philippines Women’s University. The following were the sources of data:

Position: Mr. Carlos Noel Tello. Give permission to conduct a study for their network infrastructure. Scope and Delimitation
The scope of this study is focused only on the extension of PWU located in Prudentialife Bldg. Assumption Rd., Baguio City composed of several offices only which also concentrate on the following: a. Physical network design.

b. Logical network design.
c. Network security.