1. Mr C Johnston ICT Teacher www.computechedu.co.uk
BTEC IT Unit 09 - Lesson 08 Network Design
Mr C Johnston
ICT Teacher

2. Session Objectives
Understand the difference between a physical and logical network diagram,
Know the equipment and other components which are shown on each type of diagram,
Be able to draw diagrams appropriate physical and logical diagrams for given scenarios.

3. Network Design Decisions
When designing a network there are a number of decisions which need to be made so it fully meets the needs of the user
the way the computers will be connected together -the topology,
the cables, connectors and transmission methods to be used,
a suitable network interface card,
the connecting equipment required,
the technologies to be used,
network client software,
protocols suite to be used,
network hardware and servers,
the services to be provided and the hardware, including servers, needed to provide those services.
When designing a network we often use a diagram to help us plan what equipment is needed and how it will be connected.

4. Types of Diagram
There are two different types of diagram which can be drawn when designing networks:
Logical diagrams
Diagram which shows the layout of the network but is much more simplified. Doesn’t show the room layout or cables runs or patch panels – just shows what equipment is connected together.
Physical diagrams
Shows the exact location of computers, servers, cable runs, connection boxes and other equipment. Drawn on a room plan so installers can see exactly what goes where.

5. Logical Diagram Example 1

6. Logical Diagram Example 2

7. Physical Diagram Physical diagrams should include:
Computers, servers, printers
Connecting equipment - switches / wireless / routers
Patch Panels,
Drop Cables,
Wall Jacks,
Patch Cables.

8. Types of Diagram
There are two different types of diagram which can be drawn when designing networks:
Logical diagrams
Diagram which shows the layout of the network but is much more simplified. Doesn’t show the room layout or cables runs or patch panels – just shows what equipment is connected together.
Physical diagrams
Shows the exact location of computers, servers, cable runs, connection boxes and other equipment. Drawn on a room plan so installers can see exactly what goes where.

9. Evidencing M2 / D1
M2 requires you to design a network for the scenario given within the assignment,
Your design should have 3 things:
List of network requirements
Annotated logical network design diagram
Annotated physical diagram
Supporting notes / table which clearly state all the components needed
D1 requires you to justify every design choice made including the advantages and disadvantages.
Detailed annotation could be added to your diagrams or extra supporting notes could be added.

10. Programming Constructs
M2 – Design a networked solution to meet a particular situation with
specific requirements
D1 – Justify the design and choice of components used in a particular
networked solution
Programming Constructs
M2 is the design of a network and you will need be supplied with a specific scenario to develop a solution. Evidence could be diagrammatic with explanatory notes.
D1 is a justification of the design developed for M2. Pros and cons should be included.