Can you finish your 7‑2 project two submission on time and still make it look polished?
It’s a fair question. The deadline is looming, the network diagram needs to be crisp, and the rationale has to convince the grader that you actually understand the design. Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through every step, from sketching the first wireframe to polishing the final PDF. By the end, you’ll have a submission that looks like it was crafted by a seasoned network engineer, not a last‑minute student.
What Is the 7‑2 Project Two Submission?
The 7‑2 project two submission is a common assignment format in many networking courses. It usually asks students to design a small to medium‑sized network, create a diagram that illustrates the topology, and write a rationale explaining why each decision was made. The components are:
- Network Diagram – a visual representation of routers, switches, firewalls, servers, and end‑points.
- Rationale – a written justification that covers design choices, protocol selection, security measures, and future scalability.
The goal is to demonstrate both technical skill and the ability to communicate that skill clearly.
Why It’s Not Just a Drawing
You might think the diagram is the only thing that matters, but the rationale is where the real assessment happens. Graders look for evidence of critical thinking: Did you consider redundancy? Day to day, are you using the right protocols for the traffic? In real terms, have you planned for growth? The diagram is the canvas; the rationale is the caption that tells the story.
Why It Matters / Why People Care
If you’re aiming for a solid grade or a career in network design, mastering this assignment matters for a few reasons:
- Shows real‑world readiness – Employers want engineers who can translate requirements into a workable design.
- Builds communication skills – You’ll be writing technical documents, not just code.
- Prevents costly mistakes – A poor design can lead to bottlenecks, security holes, or unplanned downtime.
In practice, the same skills you use here will surface in network operations, consulting, or even startup product design.
How It Works (or How to Do It)
The process can feel overwhelming, but break it into three phases: planning, diagramming, and rationalizing.
Phase 1: Planning Your Network
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Gather Requirements
- Number of users, devices, and expected traffic volume.
- Security needs (DMZ, VPN, segmentation).
- Budget constraints and hardware preferences.
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Choose a Topology
- Star, mesh, hybrid?
- Consider redundancy: dual links, failover protocols.
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Select Core Components
- Routers – Do you need a single router or multiple with OSPF/BGP?
- Switches – Managed vs. unmanaged, PoE support.
- Firewalls – Inline, split‑horizon, or next‑gen?
- Servers – DHCP, DNS, authentication.
Phase 2: Drawing the Diagram
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Pick a Tool
- Free options: draw.io, Lucidchart (free tier), Visio Lite.
- Stick to a consistent icon set to avoid clutter.
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Layer the Design
- Physical Layer – Rack layout, cabling.
- Logical Layer – VLANs, subnets, routing protocols.
- Security Layer – Firewalls, access lists, IDS/IPS.
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Label Clearly
- Use device names, IP ranges, and protocol abbreviations.
- Keep the legend minimal but informative.
Phase 3: Writing the Rationale
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Structure Matters
- Introduction – Briefly restate requirements.
- Design Overview – High‑level diagram walk‑through.
- Component Justifications – One paragraph per key element.
- Security & Redundancy – Explain why you chose certain protocols.
- Scalability – How can the network grow?
- Conclusion – Summarize the benefits.
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Use Technical Language, but Stay Accessible
- Don’t over‑use jargon. Readers should understand the reasoning even if they’re not network pros.
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Include References
- Cite RFCs, vendor docs, or textbooks where you pulled standards.
Common Mistakes / What Most People Get Wrong
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Over‑complicating the diagram
Students often add every device they own, turning a simple design into a maze. Keep it just enough Turns out it matters.. -
Skipping the rationale
Some think the diagram speaks for itself. The rationale is where you show depth That's the part that actually makes a difference.. -
Ignoring security
A neat topology without firewalls or segmentation is a red flag. -
Not labeling IP ranges
Leaving subnets ambiguous can lead to confusion during review It's one of those things that adds up. But it adds up.. -
Using generic names
“Router1” and “SwitchA” don’t convey meaning. Use functional names like “Core‑Router” or “DMZ‑Switch”.
Practical Tips / What Actually Works
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Start with a Paper Sketch
Before jumping into software, doodle a quick layout. It helps catch layout issues early Worth keeping that in mind.. -
Use Templates
Most diagram tools have network templates. Pick one that matches your topology and tweak. -
Keep the Rationale Draft Short at First
Write a one‑paragraph justification for each component, then expand Not complicated — just consistent.. -
Ask a Peer to Review
A fresh set of eyes can spot missing links or confusing labels. -
Proofread for Consistency
Check that device names in the diagram match those in the rationale The details matter here.. -
Export to PDF with High Resolution
The grader will open it on a laptop; blurry icons look unprofessional. -
Time‑box Each Section
Allocate 30 min for planning, 1 hr for diagramming, 1 hr for writing. Stick to it And that's really what it comes down to..
FAQ
Q: Can I use a generic network diagram template?
A: Yes, but customize it to reflect your specific design. A generic template with no context doesn’t demonstrate understanding.
Q: Do I need to include every single device?
A: Only those relevant to the design. If a device isn’t part of the core topology or security strategy, leave it out That's the part that actually makes a difference..
Q: Is it okay to use placeholder IP addresses?
A: Use realistic ranges (e.g., 192.168.1.0/24). Placeholder like “x.x.x.x” looks unprofessional And that's really what it comes down to..
Q: How detailed should the rationale be?
A: Enough to justify each choice but not so verbose that it becomes a novel. Aim for 500–700 words.
Q: What if my diagram looks too simple?
A: Simplicity is good, but make sure all required elements (e.g., redundancy, security) are represented. If you’re missing them, add the necessary components.
Wrapping It Up
The 7‑2 project two submission is more than a test; it’s a chance to showcase how you translate theory into practice. In real terms, by planning carefully, diagramming cleanly, and writing a thoughtful rationale, you’ll turn a routine assignment into a portfolio piece. Think about it: remember: clarity beats complexity, and a well‑justified design speaks louder than a flashy diagram. Now go grab that laptop, fire up your diagram tool, and let your network design shine.
