Member Avatar for juliormr

i pretty much know how to do all the hook ups but want to make sure i get it all in order before i go to my job interview tomorrow what all products do i need? and how do i do all the i.p. address things? I have done it once before but really need to know how to do step 1 and on.

  • 2 Contributors
  • 2 Replies
  • 59 Views
  • 16 Hours Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by juliormr

Dani AI

Generated

For a small office of ~20 PCs with one admin, think simple and reliable: ISP modem -> firewall/router -> 24-port gigabit switch -> client PCs and access points. You typically do not need a proxy unless you want caching or strict web filtering; a decent firewall/router with NAT and DHCP is enough for day one. Gear checklist: firewall/router (with DHCP, VLAN and logging), 24-port gigabit switch, Cat6 patch cords, 1-2 APs (if Wi‑Fi), a UPS for the router/switch, and labels.

IP plan (keep it clean and predictable):

  • Pick one private IPv4 /24, e.g., 192.168.10.0/24, as defined by RFC 1918 RFC 1918 private addressing.
  • Router LAN IP: 192.168.10.1. DHCP pool: 192.168.10.100-200. Reserve a few statics (e.g., .10-.20) for printer/NAS/management.
  • DNS: point clients to the router, and have the router forward to your ISP or reputable public resolvers.
  • Default firewall: deny unsolicited inbound, allow outbound. Do not expose services until you have a reason and a rule.

Quick setup steps you can talk through in an interview:

  1. WAN: plug router into ISP modem; get an IP via DHCP.
  2. LAN: set 192.168.10.1/24 on the router; enable DHCP scope and DNS forwarder.
  3. Connect the switch to the router LAN; plug in clients.
  4. Test on a client:
ipconfig /all
ping 192.168.10.1
ping 8.8.8.8

As hinted, decide Workgroup vs Domain. For 20 users, a workgroup is fine if you only share files and printers. If you need centralized logons, Group Policy, and easier privilege control, stand up a Windows Server and create an AD domain; then join PCs to it .

Tip: document the IP plan, DHCP reservations, and firewall rules. Disable UPnP, change all defaults, and keep a simple network diagram for handoff.

Member Avatar for arshadibl

Which type of networking you want to make?
Workgroup or Domain base

Member Avatar for juliormr

hey thanks for the reply. I would like to get networking down first

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.