Ocper, Inc. is currently using the peer-to-peer model as a means of networking on the office floor. The peer-to-peer model is a suitable option for companies that have few computers, ideally below 10. As Ocper, Inc. has 20 computers a better option for them would be to switch to the client-server network model. Adding on, as the company is considering expansion as part of their future plan, the peer-to-peer model will cause performance and administrative problems (Posey, 2000). In the peer-to-peer all computers have an equal amount of authorization power, and the network is inflexible. Along with this, peer-to-peer lacks security as the data can be accessed by unauthorized users. If documents need to be shared then they would have to be stored to an external source and physically transferred to other systems. For all these reasons the peer-to-peer network model is not the best option for the firm.
One option for Ocper, Inc. is to switch to the client-server network model through star configuration. One computer would have act as a central unit providing communication and resource sharing between all connected systems. All connected clients may be able to share data, storage spaces, and external devices. The data can either be stored to personal computers or the server, this provides greater security compared to peer-to-peer (Dean, 2009). Clients will have access to only those applications which they require. A LAN that is created by a star configuration node allows direct communication with relevant nodes. Every department can process data which is relevant to their arena. The greatest advantage of this method is that data is routed only to areas where it is required, and if one node is breaks down the entire system is not affected. Even though, this method will have a high initial cost, but this cost will be insignificant in the long run as it will provide better speed, efficiency, and less down time spent in repairs.
Twisted cable pairs are not only relatively cheap, but they are also easier to install and flexible compared to coax wires. Coax wiring is difficult to install because of wire sizes and is expensive. Twisted cable pairs are able to handle the fast rate of networks (Dean, 2009). The cost of three-feet of coax wire can be $7; whereas, twisted cable pair is $2. Another option available to Ocper, Inc is of fiber optic cables. These cables are reliable as their resistance to noise is very high, are more secure, and are able to carry signals to longer distance. Because of its advantages fiber optic cable is expensive than twisted cable pairs. A 500 ft. roll of RG58A cable would cost approximately $96, 1000 ft. UTP Cat 5e 350 MHz $80, and 1000 ft. multimode fiber optic cable $368. The data shows that the UTP cable is the least costly and most suitable to be used in a star network LAN. As the owner is reluctant to have a major change, fiber optic cable would be cost prohibitive.
A star LAN network would be the best option for Ocper, Inc. This model would help the company achieve the efficiency which they require. Undoubtedly, there are costs attached with the required equipment, but the cabling costs will negate its effect. The star LAN network and UTP cable would help reverse the mistake of connecting 20 computers via a peer-to-peer networking system. The star LAN network would also allow expansion with ease and the network will provide optimal benefits by using time, money, and resource efficiently.
Works Cited
Dean, T. (2010). Network + Guide to networks. Mason, Ohio: Cengage Learning.
Posey, Brien. "Security on a peer-to-peer network." TechRepublic. N.p., 17 Aug. 2000. Web. 15 Feb. 2014. <http://www.techrepublic.com/article/security-on-a-peer-to-peer-network/5033516>.
