Branching Out
Objective
Describe WAN access technologies available to small-to-medium-sized business networks.
Scenario
Your medium-sized company is opening a new branch office to serve a wider, client-based network. This branch will focus on regular, day-to-day network operations, but will also provide TelePresence, web conferencing, IP telephony, video on demand, and wireless services.
Although you know that an ISP can provide WAN routers and switches to accommodate the branch office connectivity for the network, you prefer to use your own customer premises equipment (CPE). To ensure interoperability, Cisco devices have been used in all other branch-office WANs.
As the branch-office network administrator, it is your responsibility to research possible network devices for purchase and use over the WAN.
Resources
World Wide Web
Word processing software
Directions
Step 1: Visit the Cisco Branch-WAN Business Calculator site. Accept the agreement to use the calculator.
Step 2: Input information to help the calculator determine a preferred router or ISR option for your branch and WAN (both).
Note: There is a slider tool within the calculator window that allows the choice of more service options for your branch office and WAN.
Step 3: The calculator will suggest a possible router or ISR device solution for your branch office and WAN. Use the tabs at the top of the calculator window to view the output.
Step 4: Create a matrix with three column headings and list some information provided by the output in each category:
Return on investment (ROI)
Total cost of ownership (TCO)
Energy savings
Step 5: Discuss your research with a classmate, group, class, or your instructor. Include in your discussion:
Specifics on the requirements of your network as used for calculator input
Output information from your matrix
Additional factors you would consider before purchasing a router or ISR for your new branch office