Network Engineering Trainee

Task Objective: In this task, you will design a comprehensive network architecture for a hypothetical mid-sized enterprise. Your objective is to plan and document a network that supports various departmental requirements while ensuring scalability, reliability, and security.

Expected Deliverables: A well-organized network design document in PDF format that includes network topology diagrams, IP addressing schemes, routing protocols, hardware recommendations, and a justification for your design choices. The document should be created using any diagram software of your choice and should be accompanied by a detailed written report.

Key Steps:

1. Conduct an initial assessment of network requirements for departments such as HR, Finance, and IT.
2. Create a logical network diagram outlining inter-department connectivity and data flow.
3. Decide on the physical placement and redundancy of major network components.
4. Design IP addressing schemes including subnets and VLAN configurations.
5. Recommend suitable routers, switches, and firewall devices.
6. Provide a written explanation of the routing protocols and security measures proposed.
7. Compile your work into a final deliverable file and validate that all parts of the assignment are covered.

Evaluation Criteria: Your work will be evaluated on design completeness, practicality, innovation in addressing potential issues, clarity of documentation, and the overall professionalism of the final submission. The task is estimated to take approximately 30 to 35 hours, ensuring a thorough hands-on approach to network planning and design.

Task Objective: In this assignment, you are required to configure virtual network devices in a simulated environment. Your goal is to set up routers, switches, and other networking hardware using simulation software (such as Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3) and to demonstrate proper network configuration practices.

Expected Deliverables: A file containing the complete configuration scripts/code for the network devices along with a simulation file that demonstrates your network in action. Additionally, submit a detailed configuration document (in PDF format) explaining the commands used, their purpose, and how they contribute to network functionality.

Key Steps:

1. Choose a network simulation tool available publicly and familiarize yourself with its interface.
2. Create a simulated network topology based on a given scenario (e.g., a two-site company with a branch office).
3. Configure devices including setting up routing protocols, VLANs, and access control lists (ACLs).
4. Test the network configuration using simulated traffic and document the troubleshooting steps taken if issues arise.
5. Export the configuration commands and simulation file.
6. Compile all documentation and files into one final deliverable.

Evaluation Criteria: You will be assessed on the correctness and efficiency of the configuration scripts, the clarity of the documentation, the complexity of the network topology, and evidence of successful simulation and testing. This task is designed for a 30 to 35 hour practical engagement to sharpen your network configuration skills.

Task Objective: This week, you will simulate a network failure scenario and work through the troubleshooting process. The objective is to identify, diagnose, and resolve a series of network issues within a virtual environment. Through this practical task, you will gain experience in diagnosing network malfunctions and documenting resolutions.

Expected Deliverables: A detailed diagnostic report in PDF format, along with the simulation file showing both the faulty and corrected configurations. Your report should include screenshots, step-by-step troubleshooting logs, and an explanation of the corrective actions taken.

Key Steps:

1. Set up a simulated network with intentionally misconfigured components (e.g., incorrect routing entries, misassigned IP addresses, flawed VLAN configurations).
2. Engage in a systematic troubleshooting process using diagnostic tools such as ping, traceroute, and log analysis.
3. Document every step taken, from identification of the problem to final resolution.
4. Simulate various failure recovery scenarios to verify robustness in your solution.
5. Submit a comprehensive report that includes a description of the issue, the approach taken to resolve it, and lessons learned.

Evaluation Criteria: Your submission will be judged on the depth of analysis, clarity of the troubleshooting report, effectiveness of the resolution, and the demonstration of hands-on testing using the simulation tool. This exercise is designed to be completed in about 30 to 35 hours of focused work.

Task Objective: This assignment focuses on implementing and testing security measures within a virtual network setup. You will be required to integrate firewall configurations, intrusion detection systems, and secure routing protocols into your network design, demonstrating best practices in network security.

Expected Deliverables: A security implementation plan document in PDF format along with the configuration files (script files or simulation file) that were applied to secure the network. Your submission should detail specific security policies, firewall rules, and any changes to network architecture introduced to enhance security.

Key Steps:

1. Begin by researching current best practices in network security, including firewall configurations and segmentation techniques.
2. Configure your simulated network to include security components such as firewalls, VPN setups, and IDS/IPS systems.
3. Develop a detailed security plan that outlines the rationale behind each security measure implemented, with emphasis on potential vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.
4. Conduct tests to verify that security measures are working as intended, such as simulating an intrusion attempt.
5. Document these testing procedures and results comprehensively.
6. Submit both the configuration files and a detailed report summarizing your findings and modifications.

Evaluation Criteria: Your work will be reviewed on depth and clarity of the security plan, accuracy of configuration files, effectiveness of practical testing, and the detailed insights provided in the final report. This task should be completed within an estimated 30 to 35 hours and provides significant hands-on experience in network security.

Task Objective: In this task, you will analyze the performance of a virtual network and propose optimization measures to improve efficiency and scalability. You are expected to simulate network traffic and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as throughput, latency, and packet loss.

Expected Deliverables: A comprehensive performance analysis report in PDF format accompanied by a file (simulation or script file) that demonstrates the testing environment with simulated traffic. Include graphs, charts, and metrics that depict network performance benchmarks and the results of your optimization efforts.

Key Steps:

1. Develop a simulated network environment and generate realistic network traffic using available simulation tools.
2. Monitor and document key performance metrics using network monitoring tools or embedded diagnostic features in your simulation tool.
3. Identify potential performance bottlenecks and propose concrete optimization measures.
4. Apply these optimization measures and re-run your simulation tests to compare performance improvements.
5. Create visual representations of your findings (charts, graphs) and explain the rationale behind the changes made.
6. Compile your analysis, methodology, and results into a final deliverable file.

Evaluation Criteria: Your submission will be evaluated on the depth of performance analysis, clarity of data presentation, effectiveness of optimization steps, and thoroughness of the overall documentation. Ensure that your practical work is clearly demonstrated in the simulation file. This exercise is estimated to take approximately 30 to 35 hours to complete.

Task Objective: In your final week, you will simulate a comprehensive network maintenance plan that includes routine check-ups, network updates, backup strategies, and a roadmap for future network expansion. This task is designed to evaluate your understanding of long-term network sustainability and proactive management.

Expected Deliverables: A final maintenance and expansion plan document in PDF format featuring a detailed timeline, scheduled maintenance tasks, and planned network upgrades. Additionally, include a file (network simulation, diagram files, or configuration backups) that supports your strategic planning. Your deliverable should reflect both current network health and future scalability measures.

Key Steps:

1. Review the current network design and identify key maintenance challenges and potential risks over time.
2. Develop a detailed schedule for routine network maintenance tasks, including backups, firmware updates, and vulnerability assessments.
3. Create a roadmap for future expansions, detailing the integration of new technologies or additional network segments.
4. Design a network diagram that illustrates both current and proposed future states of the network.
5. Compile all findings, schedules, and plans into a clear, comprehensive document.
6. Ensure that your simulation or configuration backup files support the maintenance plan, offering concrete examples of routine tasks or potential upgrade modules.

Evaluation Criteria: Your final submission will be assessed based on the completeness and feasibility of the maintenance plan, the clarity of your future network expansion roadmap, and the overall quality and practicality of your documentation. This task, estimated to take between 30 and 35 hours, integrates all concepts learned during the internship and prepares you for real-world network maintenance challenges.