concern since Outlook is particularly vulnerable to various malicious attacks found on the Internet. All e-mail and network access will be controlled through the Johannesburg office through a single gateway. While this will cause some slowdown in service, it will provide greater security.
Overall connectivity will be provided through a T1 or E1 service so that broadband capabilities and speed can be realized. This will enhance the company's productivity, but may also make it vulnerable to Internet attack since the network will be always connected to the Internet, unlike in dial-up settings where the network would be connected for short periods of time. However, given the size of drawings and other engineering documents that are likely to be transmitted over the network, having a broadband connection makes the most sense in this situation.
Security will be key to the success of the network implementation. The new laptops will require special cards to be inserted in order for them to be able to access the network, and biometric security will be implemented as well to ensure that the users are authenticated. All new employees will be required to undergo training in the use of network security issues, and no private Internet use will be allowed. Filters and related Internet blocking tools will be used to prevent employees from accessing unauthorized sites.
All laptops and PCs will also have firewalls installed designed to protect against attacks originating from the Internet, and to prevent infected machines from spreading their infections to others on the network. Norton will be the primary firewall, and will be used in combination with virus detecting and protecting software.
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