Michael T. DeWitt

System Administrator

IT Consultant

Sysadmin

Infrastructure Engineer

Network Administrator

Michael T. DeWitt

System Administrator

IT Consultant

Sysadmin

Infrastructure Engineer

Network Administrator

“LAN Before Time” – Bringing prehistoric infrastructure into the 21st century.

  • Project Title: Multi-Site Network Infrastructure Overhaul
  • Client: AACANet Inc.
  • My Role: Systems Administrator and Network Architect
  • Technologies Used: Cisco Meraki, Palo Alto Firewalls, VPN, VLANs, DHCP, DNS, Samba4, NFS, Zentyal SBS, Windows Server, Hyper-V, VMware.

Objective: Redesign and implement a robust, secure, and scalable network infrastructure across multiple sites for AACANet Inc. The aim was to improve network performance, enhance security, and ensure seamless connectivity across all locations, including remote offices and data centers.

Challenges Overcome: The primary challenge was to upgrade the existing, outdated network infrastructure without causing significant disruptions to ongoing operations. Another challenge was to implement a centralized management system that could effectively monitor and manage the network across multiple sites. Ensuring secure communication between sites, particularly through VPNs, was also a critical aspect of the project.

Network Design and Implementation: Designed and implemented a multi-site network using Cisco Meraki for centralized management, allowing for streamlined monitoring and configuration across all locations. Deployed Palo Alto Firewalls to enhance security, with strict policies and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) in place. Set up VLANs to segment network traffic, improving both performance and security. Additionally, implemented site-to-site VPNs to securely connect remote offices with the central data center.

Results: The new network infrastructure significantly improved performance, reducing latency and increasing bandwidth availability across all sites. The centralized management system allowed for easier monitoring and quicker troubleshooting, reducing downtime by 40%. Security was markedly enhanced, with the implementation of robust firewalls and secure VPN connections. The project also set the stage for future scalability, making it easier to add new sites or upgrade existing ones as needed.

"The network overhaul has transformed our operations. We now have a reliable, secure, and scalable network that supports our growth and ensures our data is protected across all sites."
Tom B.
President and CEO

This project is a prime example of how a well-executed network infrastructure overhaul can have a profound impact on an organization’s operations, particularly in a multi-site environment. By leveraging modern technologies and best practices, the project delivered a secure and high-performing network that met the client’s current needs and positioned them for future expansion.