Upgrading the Ocper Inc. Network, Essay Example

Choosing a network Operating System

Choosing an appropriate network operating system is critical to the proper functioning of a network. The kind of network operating system chosen affects all network protocols, server administration and user interaction with the network. The outlook of network environment is shaped by the type of network operating system chosen. Given that Ocper Inc is planning to expand, it is noteworthy that current needs are met with the future expansion in mind. There are several network operating systems available in the market; however, very few of them offer advanced features, high dependability and ease in set up and administration. Given that a network operating system is what is responsible for sharing of network resources, secure data transfer and management of simultaneous requests from users; a sophisticated network operating system is required for the growing Ocper Inc. network. The network operating system should be able to optimize performance, enable access control and ensure maximum network security. It should also come with configuration tools for network administrators and client computer utilities as well such as printing services.

Novell Netware is the most appropriate choice for Ocper Inc, as it will not only cater for their current needs but also scale as they grow. Developed in the early 80s, Novell Netware is a pioneer network operating system that up to date is still an industry leader. Novell networks are built on low level network protocols IPX and SPX, which work well with both Ethernet and token networks. Besides, almost all network equipments are supported under these protocols. Even though, IPX and SPX protocols do enjoy as much universal support as TCP/IP which has grown to be particularly dominant in local networks, IPX and SPX protocols are less susceptible to attacks from the internet. In implementing Novell Netware, IPX and SPX protocols can be used for printer and file sharing while TCP/IP is used for internet connections. The added advantage of Novell Netware is that it can run both IPX/SPX and TCP/IP. Another fundamental advantage of Novell Netware network operating system is the network directory system (NDS). The NDS organizes network resources in a hierarchal way, through it a network administrator has the capability to define what kind of network resources can be enjoyed by a particular user in the entire network.

Novell Netware network operating system has a reputation for reliability and stability; once it is set up it can operate for extremely long durations before it crashes. This makes a worthwhile investment for Ocper Inc for the moment and for their future growth prospects.

Adding New Servers into the Environment

Adding new servers to an existing environment can be challenging. This is true especially when cables are not labeled, and it is difficult to which cable goes where. Network operating systems such Novell Netware makes it easier to add new servers into the system; however, the challenge is the physical adding of a server into a network. In adding a new server into the Ocper Inc. network, I will take the patch panel approach. I will install a patch panel in each rack ensuring that there are enough ports for each device then trunk the links back to the central communication rack. The central communication is then patched into a switch. This kind of connection is the best as it makes it easy to connect any service in any rack to any device within the Ocper infrastructure. Patch panels also enable use of larger switches and better use of ports. The greatest challenge associated with patch panel approach is the extensive new cabling required. This might require for additional space in the data centre.

VPN Access

In order for employees of Ocper Inc to connect to the corporate network, a secure access 24/7 must be made available. Given this situation, the best option is to install SSL VPN (Secure Socket Layers Virtual Private Network). SSL is designed to create safe and secure connections between PCs and the application servers. SSL encrypts data end to end, and it is essential that this is not visible to firewalls and intrusion prevention systems. SSL also tends to overload servers and should be handled by the proxy server before traffic is routed to the corporate network.

SSL has become a leader in remote VPN access and most people are opting for it. The key benefit SSL VPN is the capability to offer clientless access since it is standard in most browsers. This relieves IT departments from managing complicated IPSec clients. SSL VPNs also enable access from a diverse range of devices from sorts of location. This is critical to Ocper Inc in terms of improving productivity and limiting IT department staff head count.

References

Hunter, P. (1995). Network Operating Systems, Addison-Wesley: Workingham.

Michael, H. and Monique, M. (2005). MPLS VPN Security, Indianapolis, Ind: CISCO.

Jeffrey, S. (2009). Networking, Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.