Planning a network from scratch.

[Stuefc]

I've been asked by my company to plan the layout of a network at a new office that we are in the process of building. This involves everything you can possibly think of - do I choose Fibre Optic over RadioWan and why, what considerations need to be taken into account for the electricians, what is the best layout, what backbone, fire, security, airflow and so on.

I've never done anything like this before....I'm just a little old (young) Network Admin sitting comfortably in his office ensuring that everything runs fine. But to do it all from scratch? Naturally, I'm a little worried and excited.

I'd simply like some advice as to how would be the best way to approach this. I'm no engineer/architect/electrician so I'm a little confused by where I start.

Any advice would be much appreciated.

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Nil Satis Nisi Optimum
"Nothing but the best will satisfy"

[diurnal]

Way to much info man. I dont think any here is equip for that type of question. I would try another forum. Go to google.com and try to find a networking forum. AS for the info, wait is this a joke. Well any way, why dont they get a mcse to do that job, its odd to put that pressure on you.
One thing is you need problably windows advanced server(or unix). Find some good networking security. ANd fiber optic , i heard is not all it s crack up to be. I heard that photonic fiber optic is the way to go. Also you need a hub, router(depends on how many cpus your hooking up), what kind of internet connection are they going to run.t1,t3.

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

[Stuefc]

Hang on.....I think I didn't explain myself properly. I don't need to know how to setup a network (software or hardware wise) but rather just need a little advice in what steps to address with respect to the electrical/building/other? side of things before physically installing the network.

And yes, I'm also looking elsewhere for advice, just thought that someone may have had experience in this.

Cheers.


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Nil Satis Nisi Optimum
"Nothing but the best will satisfy"

[diurnal]

Not sure, i think kenya, or kay of circles might be able to help you. I seen some of there post, and they know some info on networking.

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

[mjc]

Well speaking from running live audio and setting up a recording studio...how far along in the process is the building?

Have things like the computer room been decided?

How many servers/workstations are you looking at?

Do you have any idea of the layout of the electrical service? general area where things are supposed to go, like printers, workstations, etc?

It is usually easier to make these kind of choices if you have access to blueprints and engineering documents.....what kind of network is kind of determined by the area of the building, length of the runs (for cables, whether electrical of optical)...if you are talking multi-level building then what about going between floors..each level need to be tied to the others?


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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[Stuefc]

Thanks for the replies.

Ok, in answer to the questions.

1: The building will be a three story, strata titled property with an underground carpark. The base has been laid.

2: Computer room has been decided. It will be situated in the basement, with three server racks (currently will only be hosting my companies servers, of which there are 4). Workstations currently number about 30. Fireproof door plus extinguisher, air cond running at constant 23 degrees Celsius and keylock security.

3: Absolutely no idea of the layout...I know I need to see the plans but infortunately am unable to get a hold of them until next week. I just wanted to have an idea of what to look for before I open my big mouth and discuss something I'm unfamilar with!!!

4: As far as the levels, apparently the choice is up to me whether we go for the false floor or not. Each office will be zoned allowing different companies the opportunity to design their own network layout within their office.

Thanks for the assistance - every little bit helps!!!

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Nil Satis Nisi Optimum
"Nothing but the best will satisfy"

[mjc]

Sounds like a good start...get a hold of the prints and the electrical diagrams too...they should help with making some decisions...computer room sounds good.

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[diurnal]

Ok let me add mjc to that list
You just proved it to me!

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

[bassman]

OH BOY,
Something I live for. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif
Some of your primary conciderations need to be 1)Budget, 2)Budget, 3)Budget.
Fiber is extremly expensive, extremly fast, and extremly broad, did I mention extremly fast? With 4 servers and only 30 workstations, I would stay away from it unless you have money to burn.
Wireless is really nice but still in developmental stages. I think it may still have some problems dealing with steal construction in the building. If your company is willing to take the chance on some initial glitches, it could turn out to be a nice setup.
Right now, your strongest safest setup is going to be 10/100 Ethernet using STP or UTP Cat5 wiring. This wiring can travle upto 100 Meters without a signal amplifier. At a total of 4 stories (with basement) you are well within range. Implement switching hubs in areas where you have multipul machines grouped and possibly using Fiber from there to the servers.
You will need to understand local building codes on the necessity of particular wiring inside of false floors, ceilings, and wall chases. Your wiring contractor should know these things and should be able to explain it to you with confidance and clearity. If not, find another one!
Another suggestion, talk with the interior designer (if you have one) or whoever will be responsible for work area layout. If you use cableing, your moveability is reduced for obvious reasons.

Typical commercial construction over here is to use "T-Bar" drop ceilings allowing easy access to an area where all this stuff can be run in the future.
Hope this helps http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

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[bassman]

Dang server errors. Double post
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Please let us know if what we suggest helps. This helps us help you better.

[This message has been edited by bassman (edited 10-26-2001).]