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

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.

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.