Question(s): Respond to a minimum of two classmates’ posts analyzing their plans

Question(s): Respond to a minimum of two classmates’ posts analyzing their plans, and provide additional follow-up comments or questions.
PEER POST # 1
When connecting two locations that are several miles apart, we have limited options for WAN creation. Ethernet cabling is not an option, and MMF is incredibly expensive to install. I would suggest an IPSec site to site VPN tunnel in this situation. A VPN tunnel creates a secure, encrypted network connection that encrypts data packets as they enter the tunnel and decrypts them as they arrive. This method is favorable for companies connecting locations because it connects one entire network to another instead of individual clients (Palo Alto Networks. 2024). This functions similarly to a leased line but at reduced costs (CompTIA Network+). The VPN can be configured with split tunneling to reduce bandwidth usage, and transport mode will fully encapsulate the data packets while providing a new IP header that provides source and destination information. IPSec allows VPN data to be transmitted over an unsecured network while still adhering to the CIA principals. Furthermore, company applications do not need any integration or configuration for IPSec (CompTIA Network+). One of the drawbacks of the site-to-site VPN tunnel is the need for data to pass through a central location as additional locations are added. This can lead to slower network speeds as the company scales (Palo Alto Networks. 2024).
PEER POST # 2
In order to join these two networks together from separate locations, I would establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This will safely link the two networks together across the internet as if they were on a single local area network. Security is very important for any business and with VPN, there will be strong encryption protocols so that data in transit is protected and there will also be some type of authentication to prevent unauthorized access from unknown users. For reliability, I would say there should be some type of tool for network monitoring to notify IT personnel of any VPN or connectivity problems. There should also be a help desk through the VPN in case users need help or assist with any connectivity issues. This is also another way that IT personnel will be able to know if the VPN is having problems. For network speeds, I would configure QoS (Quality of Service) on the routers to give priority to traffic that is more important than less important business applications.Having the VPN, there will be constant updates and reviews to see if it is running smoothly and if there aren’t any problems for the growing business.