Course Experience: IT 315 – Introduction to Networking & Security
Preview of my Ethernet Network Design Project showing layout planning, redundancy choices, and security segmentation decisions.
Context
This experience comes from my IT 315 course, where I completed a comprehensive Ethernet Network Design Project. The project took place during the Spring semester and required designing a secure, scalable network for a multi-floor academic building. This experience was significant because it moved beyond basic networking theory and required applying concepts in a realistic, real-world scenario.
Artifact
This artifact includes the full network design, cabling layout, redundancy planning, security controls, and written justification for all technical decisions.
Reflection
What role did you play, and what actions did you take?
I independently designed a complete Ethernet network by determining the appropriate cabling standards, switch placement, bandwidth requirements, and security mechanisms, including VLAN segmentation and firewall deployment. I also documented and justified each design decision based on performance, reliability, and security considerations.
What challenges did you face, and how did you respond?
One challenge was balancing security, cost, and scalability while maintaining reliable network performance. I addressed this by evaluating multiple design options and selecting solutions that supported redundancy and future growth without unnecessary complexity.
What did you learn about yourself, your discipline, or your future goals?
This project showed me that effective cybersecurity work requires systems-level thinking and careful planning, not just technical configuration. I realized that I enjoy evaluating infrastructure holistically and considering how design decisions impact long-term security.
How does this experience relate to your broader professional development?
This experience strengthened my ability to analyze network environments from both a performance and security perspective. It directly supports my professional goal of working in cybersecurity by reinforcing how foundational network design decisions influence risk, resilience, and operational security.
Connection to Skills & Competencies
This course experience connects directly to my Critical Thinking and Technical Skills competencies, where I discuss applying analytical reasoning and technical knowledge to solve complex infrastructure problems.