The Baypoint Group (TBG) needs your help with a WLAN proposal.

For Section 2.0 Overview of WLAN fundamentals, security threats, and issues (company-wide standpoint):

• Objective: Educate GHS on the basics of WLANs, highlighting common security vulnerabilities and potential operational challenges relevant to a multi-store retail environment.
• Information Needed:
  • WLAN Fundamentals:
    • Basic WLAN components (access points, controllers, client devices).
    • Common WLAN standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax) and their implications for speed and range.
    • Deployment models (centralized vs. distributed).
  • Security Threats:
    • Unauthorized access (rogue APs, weak authentication).
    • Eavesdropping and data interception.
    • Denial of Service (DoS) attacks.
    • Malware propagation.
    • Insider threats.
  • Issues (Company-wide):
    • Interference (internal and external).
    • Scalability challenges across nine stores.
    • Management overhead for a distributed network.
    • Integration with existing wired infrastructure.
    • Regulatory compliance (if any specific to retail or data handling).
• Method:
  • Literature Review: Research reputable sources on WLAN fundamentals and common security threats in enterprise environments. Focus on retail-specific considerations if available.
  • Best Practices Research: Look for industry best practices for securing WLANs in multi-location businesses.
  • Current Trends: Briefly touch upon the latest Wi-Fi standards and their benefits for future-proofing.

For Section 3.0 Detailed WLAN Recommendations:

• Objective: Provide specific, actionable recommendations for GHS's WLAN implementation, covering hardware, software, security, management, and network design.
• Information Needed:
  • Network Design:
    • Centralized vs. Distributed architecture: Which is more suitable for 9 stores? (Likely centralized for easier management and security).
    • Broadband service integration: How will the wireless broadband link the stores? (VPN over public internet, dedicated fiber, etc.).
    • Inter-store connectivity: How will data flow between stores and a central HQ (if applicable)?
    • In-store coverage: How many APs per store, placement considerations (heat mapping considerations).
    • VLAN segmentation: Separate networks for employees (PDAs), guests (if offered), and point-of-sale systems.
    • QoS (Quality of Service) for PDA applications.
  • Hardware Recommendations:
    • Access Point (AP) selection: Enterprise-grade APs (e.g., Cisco Meraki, Aruba, Ubiquiti UniFi) capable of 802.11ac/ax, with good coverage and reliable performance. Consider features like PoE, mesh capabilities (if needed).
    • Wireless Controllers: Centralized management for all APs across all nine stores.
    • Routers/Firewalls: Enterprise-grade devices for each store and central location, capable of VPN.
    • Switches: PoE switches to power APs.
    • PDAs: Compatibility with chosen WLAN standards and security protocols.
  • Security Recommendations:
    • Strong authentication: WPA3 (if supported by devices) or WPA2-Enterprise with 802.1X and RADIUS server.
    • Network Access Control (NAC): To control which devices can connect to the network.
    • Firewall rules and intrusion prevention/detection systems (IPS/IDS).
    • VPN for inter-store communication and remote access.
    • Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
    • Employee security awareness training.
    • Guest Wi-Fi considerations (isolation, splash page).
  • Management and Monitoring:
    • Centralized management platform (from chosen vendor or third-party).
    • Remote monitoring tools.
    • Reporting capabilities for network performance and security events.
    • Maintenance and upgrade strategies.
  • Broadband Service:
    • Discuss options for wireless broadband (e.g., 4G/5G LTE, fixed wireless, satellite) considering speed, latency, reliability, and cost for linking stores.
    • Recommendations for a primary and backup broadband service at each store.
  • Implementation Plan Considerations:
    • Phased rollout (e.g., pilot store).
    • Professional installation services.
    • Training for GHS employees.
• Method:
  • Vendor Research: Explore leading enterprise WLAN vendors (Cisco, Aruba, Ubiquiti, Fortinet, Ruckus) and their product offerings relevant to multi-store retail.
  • Case Studies: Look for similar retail WLAN deployments to identify common solutions and challenges.
  • Hypothetical Sizing: Estimate the number of APs per store based on typical retail layouts (e.g., 2-4 APs per store, depending on size and layout).
  • Security Frameworks: Refer to established security frameworks (e.g., NIST Cybersecurity Framework basics) for comprehensive recommendations.
  • Broadband Provider Research: Investigate wireless broadband options available in the Kisumu area and generally for multi-location businesses.

For Section 4.0 Summary:

• Objective: Recap the key findings and recommendations, emphasizing the benefits of implementing the proposed WLAN solution for GHS.
• Information Needed: Synthesize the most important points from sections 2 and 3.
• Method: This section will be written after completing the other sections, serving as a concise conclusion.

Timeline (30-day engagement):

• Days 1-5: Initial research on WLAN fundamentals, security threats, and issues (Section 2.0).
• Days 6-15: Detailed research on WLAN recommendations (hardware, software, security, management, broadband integration) for Section 3.0. This will involve significant vendor and solution comparison.
• Days 16-20: Draft Section 2.0 and Section 3.0.
• Days 21-25: Review and refine Section 2.0 and Section 3.0. Begin drafting Section 1.0 and Section 4.0.
• Days 26-28: Integrate all sections, ensure consistency, proofread, and format the report.
• Days 29-30: Final review and delivery of the report.

This structured approach will ensure all required information is gathered and presented in a clear, concise, and professional manner within the 4-6 page limit.

Here's the initial draft of the report, following the outlined structure. I will fill in the details based on the information gathering plan.

The Baypoint Group (TBG)

WLAN Proposal for GHS Sporting Goods Stores

Date: May 29, 2025

Prepared for: The Baypoint Group (TBG) Prepared by: [Your Name/Consultant Title] Engagement Period: 30 Days

1.0 Introduction

GHS, a rapidly expanding chain of nine sporting goods stores specializing in soccer merchandise, is at a pivotal point in its growth trajectory. The increased popularity has highlighted the need for a robust and integrated technological infrastructure to support current operations and future expansion. Currently, GHS is exploring the implementation of a comprehensive wireless technology solution. This initiative aims to establish a wireless broadband service that will seamlessly link all nine stores, thereby fostering enhanced connectivity and operational efficiency across the entire chain.

To deliver a comprehensive WLAN proposal for GHS, I need to cover several key areas within the 30-day engagement. Here's a plan to gather the necessary information for each section of the report:

Information Gathering Plan:

For Section 1.0 Introduction:

• Objective: Clearly state the purpose of the report and GHS's need for a WLAN solution.
• Information Needed: Confirm the primary goals of GHS in implementing wireless technology (e.g., linking stores, enhancing customer service via PDAs, improving operational efficiency).
• Method: This section will be based on the initial problem statement provided by TBG. No external research is needed for this.