When designing a Local Area Network (LAN), I would start off my physical diagram with the layout of the physical space (office, home, etc…) that the network connectivity devices would exist within. At each workstation or server, I would include the Network Interface Card (NIC) associated with the system. I would then identify the type of network connection (cable type or wireless connection) that NIC has to other network equipment, and the ports into which any physical cables were connected. Stemming out from there would be the actual switches, hubs, modems, or routers providing us with the ultimate connection out to the internet. Also included would be firewalls and DHCP servers. Including all of these details will help understand the physical and logical design of the network and in troubleshooting any issues that arise during its use.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is becoming more common in the corporate world and brings with it some advantages and disadvantages to any organization. Allowing employees to use their personal devices can enhance communication and productivity particularly with employees who do not spend the majority of their time at a desk at the corporate headquarters. Personnel tend to be more comfortable with their own devices and there is an added benefit of the organization not having to pay for these devices. The disadvantages tend to come in the form of security and access to employee data. Personnel who use their own devices outside of the workplace are more likely to introduce malware and other security vulnerabilities that those under the regular control of the organization. Examining data logs will be more difficult in the event of a security incident. Additionally, if an employee leaves the company, any corporate data they house on their own device may be difficult to retrieve and to secure from unauthorize release to third parties.

Lammle, T. (2012). CompTIA Network+ Study Guide, Second Edition. Sybex

Melo, S. (2020, March 5). Advantages and Disadvantages of BYOD. (DataScope). https://datascope.io/en/blog/advantages-and-disadv…