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My network is a mess!!

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by mezdor

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I just started a new job as admin, And the network is a mess, they have 2 internal networks, one is a closed network with static IPs, the other is connected to a T1 line, The T1 network seams to flow okay but the first one needs to have internet access, The previous Admin is gone. I recovered all admin passwords, It looks as though he was tring to setup a wireless internet connection, I do not know how he was going to do it. any suggestions (short of quiting) would help.
all sys use simple peer to peer. there is a cisco router connected, not sure how. the main server is win2000. the network has mixed OS's: 98,2000 pro, XP, and NT workstation.

6 replies

by road-dog

You need a "from the ground up" network survey. This will include:
Application flows
topology
equipment inventory
traffic analysis

I've done groups of these, in the era of mergers and layoffs, orphan networks are not uncommon.

Sub out thissurvey, or do the data capture on the network during work and chase out the cabling after hours. Buy a pad of graph paper and then transfer your notes and drawings to visio or like program.

by timwalsh

Probably one of the first things to determine (if possible) is "why two network segments?"

Did he run out of public IP address on the segment connected to the T1? Or is there some reason why the nodes connected to the private segment can't/shouldn't have Internet access?

Is there a valid need for a wireless Internet connection? Unless the T1 bandwidth is being maxxed (or is anticipated to be so by the additon of the private segment, I would stay away from multiple Internet connections.
If the reason for the two segments IS simple (i.e. he ran out of public IP addresses), you have a couple of potentially simple solutions:
1. Go back to the ISP and get more public IP addresses. This might be costly depending on your needs.
2.Keep the private segment private. Connect this segment through a SOHO router/firewall (like a Linksys box) to either one of your switches or directly to your Cisco router (if you have a spare LAN port, and if you have the capability of changing theconfiguration of the router - i.e. the router is managed by the ISP).
3. If you have control of the Cisco router, turn it into a NAT box (or create and insert a NAT box between the Cisco router nad the rest of the network) and turn your entire network into a private network (but one that can access the Internet.)

Obviously if the two segments exist for other reasons, other strategies will need to be developed.

Hope this helps.

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