Characterizing the Existing Network

1. Characterizing the Existing Network Designing and Supporting Computer Networks – Chapter 3

2. Objectives • Diagram and document an existing network to identify strengths and weaknesses in the design. • Use CCO to determine the appropriate IOS version to support network requirements and download and install the appropriate IOS • Use CCO to determine the appropriate hardware features and install the upgrades using safe practices and procedures • Perform a wireless site survey • Organize collected data into a new network design

3. Diagram a Physical Network and Document the Existing Network Network documentation: • Logical and physical diagrams • Floor plans • Inventory lists for equipment and applications • Current network configuration files

4. Diagram a Physical Network and Document the Existing Network • Log in to network devices • Use Cisco IOS software commands to gain information on routers and switches

5. Diagram a Physical Network and Document the Existing Network • Create a logical network diagram showing existing addressing, routing, and network segmentation • Illustrate how information flows through the network

6. Diagram a Physical Network and Document the Existing Network • Create a modular block diagram • Simplify the network to show major functions

7. Diagram a Physical Network and Document the Existing Network • Identify and document the strengths and weaknesses of the existing network • Focus on finding ways to overcome weaknesses

8. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate IOS Version to Support Network Requirements Cisco CCO features and navigation: • Documentation • Tools • Downloads • Communities and training • News

9. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate IOS Version to Support Network Requirements • Use the show version command • Verify that the inventory list is correct • Obtain missing information

10. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate IOS Version to Support Network Requirements • Select the correct IOS image using the CCO IOS Feature Navigator

11. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate IOS Version to Support Network Requirements • Download the correct IOS • Store new IOS image on TFTP server • Transfer the file to the Cisco router or switch

12. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate IOS Version to Support Network Requirements Three stages of the router bootup process: • Perform the POST and load the bootstrap program • Locate and load the IOS software • Locate and execute the startup configuration, or enter setup mode

13. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate Hardware Features and Install the Upgrades • Use datasheets to see what modules and interfaces are available • Determine the technologies and media a given device will support

14. Use CCO to Determine the Appropriate Hardware Features and Install the Upgrades Installing a new hardware option on a Cisco router or switch: • Turn off power • Remove blank faceplace • Install option module • Turn on power and check the new configuration

15. Perform a Wireless Site Survey • Preparation • Site survey • Security • Safety guidelines

16. Perform a Wireless Site Survey • Identify possible sources of signal interference • Identify physical infrastructure issues

17. Perform a Wireless Site Survey • Define customer requirements • Identify coverage areas • Determine preliminary access point locations • Measure signal strength

18. Organize Collected Data into a New Network Design Design requirements document: • Overall project goal • Project scope • Network requirements • Current state of the network

19. Organize Collected Data into a New Network Design • Identify and record the overall goal of the proposed network design

20. Organize Collected Data into a New Network Design • Identify and record the scope of the proposed network upgrade

21. Organize Collected Data into a New Network Design • Identify and record the business goals and technical requirements of the proposed network design

22. Organize Collected Data into a New Network Design • Characterize the existing network in relation to the identified business goals and technical requirements

23. Summary • Ensure that network documentation is accurate and complete before designing an upgrade • Gather information using tools like Cisco Network Assistant • Organize the current network into a modular block diagram to identify where the network needs to be improved. • The Cisco CCO site provides valuable tools and documentation for the design process. • Before producing a wireless network design, it is usually necessary to do a wireless site survey.