Creating a Secure Wireless Network at International Plastics, Inc.

Creating a Secure Wireless Network at International Plastics, Inc.

Design Requirements

In order to meet the requirements set by the director, the following design considerations must be addressed when implementing the wireless network at International Plastics, Inc.:

1. Coverage: The wireless network should provide seamless coverage across the entire corporate campus, ensuring there is no loss of connectivity when moving from one area to another. This can be achieved by strategically placing access points (APs) throughout the premises, taking into account potential obstacles such as walls and floors.
2. Compliance: The wireless network must adhere to all Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations. This includes operating within allowable frequency bands and power limits, as well as implementing appropriate security measures to protect against unauthorized access.
3. Performance: The network should be fast enough to support employees in completing normal business activities while using wireless connectivity. This requires selecting wireless standards that offer high data transfer rates and minimal latency.
4. Cost-effectiveness: The organization desires a cost-effective solution that minimizes expenses while still meeting the other requirements. This can be achieved by carefully planning the number and placement of APs, considering budget-friendly equipment options, and optimizing network performance without unnecessary overprovisioning.
5. Security: Due to client contractual terms, the wireless network must be secure and prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. This necessitates implementing robust encryption protocols such as WPA2 with AES, utilizing strong authentication mechanisms like 802.1X, and regularly updating and patching network devices to address potential vulnerabilities.

Justification for Different Frequencies, Channels, and Antennae

Using different frequencies, channels, and antennae in the installation can help optimize the performance and coverage of the wireless network. Here are some justifications for these choices:

1. Frequencies: Utilizing both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands can provide flexibility in balancing coverage and capacity. The 2.4 GHz band offers better signal penetration through obstacles but is more susceptible to interference due to its popularity. On the other hand, the 5 GHz band provides higher data transfer rates and less interference but has slightly reduced signal range.
2. Channels: Selecting non-overlapping channels is crucial to avoid interference between APs. In the 2.4 GHz band, there are only three non-overlapping channels (1, 6, and 11), so careful planning is required to minimize channel overlap. In the 5 GHz band, there are more channels available, allowing for better channel allocation and reduced interference.
3. Antennae: Different types of antennae can be utilized to optimize coverage and directionality based on specific areas within the corporate offices. Omnidirectional antennae can provide 360-degree coverage, suitable for open spaces, while directional antennae can focus the signal in specific directions, ideal for long corridors or large conference rooms.

Regulatory Requirements

When implementing the wireless network, it is essential to consider the following regulatory requirements:

1. FCC Regulations: Adhering to FCC regulations ensures compliance with legal requirements regarding radio frequency usage and transmission power limits. These regulations help prevent interference with other wireless devices and protect against potential legal consequences.
2. Industry Standards: Following industry standards such as Wi-Fi Alliance certifications ensures compatibility, interoperability, and security of wireless devices deployed within the network. Standards like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) offer improved performance and efficiency compared to older standards.

Security Requirements

To meet the security requirements for the wireless network, the following measures should be implemented:

1. Encryption: Utilize WPA2 or WPA3 encryption protocols with AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to secure wireless communications and prevent unauthorized access.
2. Authentication: Implement strong authentication mechanisms such as 802.1X/EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol), which requires users to provide unique credentials to access the network.
3. Access Control: Utilize MAC address filtering or a centralized authentication server (such as RADIUS) to control access based on user identities and device characteristics.
4. Regular Updates: Ensure that all network devices, including APs and controllers, are regularly updated with the latest firmware patches to address security vulnerabilities.

Table summarizing possible frequency choices

Frequency Band	Strengths	Weaknesses
2.4 GHz	Better signal penetration through obstacles	More susceptible to interference due to popularity
	Availability of numerous compatible devices	Limited number of non-overlapping channels
	Longer signal range	Slower data transfer rates
5 GHz	Higher data transfer rates	Slightly reduced signal range
	Less susceptible to interference	Fewer compatible devices compared to 2.4 GHz
	More non-overlapping channels for reduced interference	Reduced signal penetration through obstacles

In conclusion, when implementing a secure wireless network at International Plastics, Inc., it is essential to address design requirements such as coverage, compliance with FCC regulations, performance, cost-effectiveness, and security. Utilizing different frequencies, channels, and antennae can optimize network performance and coverage. Regulatory requirements should also be considered to ensure compliance with FCC regulations and industry standards. Finally, implementing encryption, strong authentication, access control measures, and regular updates will help meet the security requirements of the wireless network.

References:

• Wi-Fi Alliance
• Federal Communications Commission