Designing, Installing, and Configuring a New Network

Transforming a Network Across Two Buildings: My Ubiquiti-Powered Overhaul Project

When I identified the need to overhaul an outdated network across two buildings, I saw it as an exciting opportunity to enhance connectivity, improve security, and design a system tailored to both current and future needs. After much research, I chose Ubiquiti for its reputation for providing a clean, centralized, and user-friendly interface to manage all devices efficiently. While my initial proposal for an "ideal" rack-mounted Ubiquiti network exceeded the available budget, I adapted by developing a cost-effective alternative that still delivered significant improvements. Here’s how I approached and completed this network transformation.

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Assessing the Needs and Laying the Foundation

The existing network was a patchwork of aging devices and inadequate configurations, resulting in bottlenecks in productivity and reliability. During my assessment, I identified several key issues:

• Staff PCs and printers were relying on unreliable Wi-Fi, leading to inconsistent performance.

• The network operated as a single flat network, lacking segmentation and posing significant security risks.

• Building B had limited connectivity, with no structured cabling or reliable wireless, and was unnecessarily burdened with a separate ISP connection, increasing costs without added value.

My goal was clear: Design and implement a scalable network infrastructure that not only addressed these issues but also eliminated the extra ISP connection by bridging the network between the two buildings, all while staying within budget.

Planning and Running the Cables

To maximize reliability, I prioritized transitioning key devices from WiFi to hardwired connections. Working with a coworker, I led the cable installation process, ensuring clear communication and proper execution throughout the project.

Together, we ran five Cat6 cables.

• Ran cables through attic space and walls, carefully planning routes to maintain a clean and professional look.

• Cut and drilled drop ceiling tiles to create pathways for the cables while minimizing disruption to the workspace.

• Installed cables for:

  • Two access points to ensure strong wireless coverage.

  • Two PCs in the showroom.

  • One printer in the showroom, eliminating its dependency on Wi-Fi.

This meticulous effort in cable installation provided a solid foundation for the next stages of network configuration.

Configuring the Network Backbone

To minimize downtime, I configured the backbone of the network before deploying it. The process included:

• UCG Router Setup: I configured the Ubiquiti UCG router and adopted devices into the network to streamline the transition.

• VLANs and Firewall Rules:

  • Created dedicated VLANs such as Guest and IoT, ensuring these devices couldn’t access sensitive internal resources.

  • Additionally a separate VLAN solely for the credit card processing machine, adhering to best practices for payment security.

This segmentation improved both security and performance by isolating network traffic.

Switch Installation and Device Migration

After completing the initial setup, I transitioned devices to the new infrastructure:

• Connected all devices to a Unifi 16-port switch in the main building.

• Re-purposed the old switch for the service department, which, while not a Ubiquiti switch, sufficed for their immediate needs. I informed the business that the topology wouldn’t display accurately in the Ubiquiti interface until more Unifi switches were added.

This phased approach minimized disruption to daily operations, as most of the work was conducted during business hours.

Optimizing Internet and Connectivity for the Second Building

The second building posed unique challenges, as it lacked a direct network connection. To address this:

1. ISP Modem in Bridge Mode: I switched the ISP modem to bridge mode, effectively disabling its router functionality to ensure the UCG router managed the entire network.

2. Building-to-Building Bridge:

   A wireless bridge was installed between the two buildings to extend the network seamlessly.

3. Second Building Setup:

   • Installed a 5-port switch (already on hand) for additional connectivity.

   • Ran cables to the downstairs office, connecting a PC and printer.

   • Deployed an access point for wireless coverage throughout the building.

   
   
   

   

   

   
   
   
   
   

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Results and Lessons Learned

By the end of the project, the network was transformed into a robust and scalable system that effectively addressed the business's pain points. The new setup included:

• Hardwired connections for critical devices, significantly improving speed and reliability.

• VLANs for enhanced security and traffic management, ensuring a secure and efficient network.

• Comprehensive wireless coverage across both buildings to meet the demands of modern connectivity.

In addition to the technical upgrades, I ensured the infrastructure was clean and organized. I tidied up all the cables, cutting them to the proper lengths and securing them neatly with Velcro straps. To further simplify maintenance, I labeled every connection for easy identification and troubleshooting. While the project didn’t include every feature of my original design due to budget constraints, the final implementation balanced cost and functionality effectively. This experience highlighted the value of adaptability, attention to detail, and collaboration when working within limitations.

Future Considerations

Looking ahead, I recommended investing in additional Ubiquiti switches for improved topology mapping and centralized management. As the business grows, this infrastructure will easily accommodate new devices and advanced configurations. This project exemplifies how thoughtful planning, strategic compromises, and teamwork can deliver impactful results, even when working with budgetary constraints.