Network Design is the planning work that happens before equipment goes in: choosing the firewall, switches, access point count, and segmentation for a new office, expansion, or remodel.
Getting this right before equipment is purchased avoids the most expensive mistake in networking: buying gear that doesn't fit the space, then replacing it a year later once real usage patterns show up. A proper design accounts for device density, growth, and how the space will actually be used, not just square footage.
What this service includes
- Network topology and segmentation planning (staff, guest, cameras, phones)
- Firewall, switch, and access point selection sized to the space
- Capacity planning for current headcount and near-term growth
- Documentation handed off before installation begins
Common problems this solves
- Networks designed for headcount from years ago
- No segmentation between staff, guest, and device traffic
- Equipment bought before anyone planned how it fits together
- A move or remodel with no network plan until the last minute
Platforms and environments
Firewalls (Cisco, pfSense, Fortinet, HPE Aruba), switches, UniFi and enterprise Wi-Fi platforms, VLAN design, and structured cabling coordination.
Frequently asked questions
We already have equipment — do we need a full redesign?
Not necessarily. Existing equipment is evaluated first; a design project can mean reconfiguring what's already there rather than replacing it outright.
How far in advance should this start before a move or buildout?
As early as possible — ideally before signing a lease or finalizing a remodel, since cabling and rack space decisions are much cheaper to make on paper than after construction.
Does this include Wi-Fi, or just wired network design?
Both. A network design engagement covers wired infrastructure, wireless coverage, and how the two work together as one system.
Example service scenarios
- Planning the network for a new office before the lease starts
- Redesigning segmentation as the business adds cameras, POS, or IoT devices
- Sizing a network for growth instead of replacing it again in a year
Network design should match the building, users, and future plan.
A reliable network is built from the internet handoff outward: firewall, switches, cabling, Wi-Fi, VLANs, remote access, monitoring, and documentation all matter.
- Review current internet, firewall, switches, access points, cabling, racks, UPS power, and support history.
- Design around users, devices, cameras, phones, cloud tools, guest access, and future growth.
- Document the environment so support is easier and future changes are safer.
When was your router’s firmware last updated?
Unpatched routers and access points are one of the most common ways attackers get into business networks — known vulnerabilities stay open for years on equipment nobody maintains. Every A&G installation includes firmware updates and security hardening, and we keep your network patched after we leave.
Recommended next step
The Blueprint or a focused network assessment helps decide what should be cleaned up, replaced, or monitored.