Windows 7: Network structure..

Hi guys,

I need some basic info about network structuring. This may be out of windows 7 scope, but I need help. Hope, I am getting it too.

Ok here we go..

We are in the process of relocating to a new location, where I have to structure the network from scratch.

My existing setup is,
Modem - Firewall - Switch - Server, desktop, laptops
Desktop and laptops are connected using domain in the server.



My new setup,
Modem - Firewall - Wifi Modem/Router - Switch - Server. All these components are physically connected using lan cables.
Desktops and laptops should connect using wifi. This should serve 2 purposes,
1. Internet through wifi modem/router
2. Domain through server (No cables, through wifi)

Is this possible?

Is anything else needed?

Please help.

Thanks in Advance.

Yes, that should work just fine.

this is just a preference of mine: I would put the wifi router after the switch. either way it still woks.

Thanks for the response

So, desktop and laptops can connect and work with a domain only through wifi..am I right?? As a reminder, only the network peripherals will connect through a cable. Rest all are only through wifi. Please confirm this.

Also need some advice on the below,
This setup is for a total of 51 computers/laptops. Each grouped into 13 and assembled in separate enclosures or cabins. As a precautionary measure, from the switch one ethernet cable will be provided in each of the cabin. So, a total of 5 cables will come out of the switch. So, thinking of getting a 8 port switch. And in each cabin, we will put another 8 port hub, which can connect to the single ethernet cable and distribute it to 8 other nodes. Is this a wise method?

EDIT::
that sounds correct, but if you going "all wifi" why do you still need the switch?

umm i dont think i am understanding something correctly? each group has 13 computer in a cabin? correct? if so you will need a 14+ switch per cabin, not an 8 port switch.

Ok, let me clarify.
For us wifi will be the primary connectivity. Connectivity through LAN is only for emergency purposes. This is the reason, we get a switch(4 cabin(so 4 cables needed), so 8 port is enuf) and provide one ethernet cable in each cabin consisting of 13 computers. This one cable will then connect to a hub(again 8 port) kept in each cabin and can be distributed to 8 more desktops/laptops in case of an emergency. Fact is, not every laptop/desktop goes down on wifi.

okay now i understand. i though you wanted all computers in a cabin to use a port(ETHERNET). also dont use hubs!! very important, that will cause a botle neck and your network security will be vurnible becouse when a hub recieves a packet it "relays" that packet on all ports!! other than that i see no other issue.

Point noted. But what is the alternate then? I need a cost effective solution. The reason why we are going to wifi is to cut the cost in purchasing ethernet cables.

well your method sounds good, with wifi and then ethernet for backup, but please stay away from hubs. instead of hubs just use switches, but that will be more expensive. the reason i bring up not using hubs is becouse lets say you have sensitive information being transfered on the network / over the internet. now when a hub reads those packets it gets relayed evry where in your network, so if you have a wifi acess point functional at that time those packets might end-up being transmitted, and you never know who may be ease-dropping on your wifi even with wpa2

Agreed..So, should I go for a managed switch?