How do I design a network? With links to help!
Here is a tool that you can use that will assist you in setting a network up from the ground up. You will need some information about layer 2 / Layer 3 / layer 4 or Layer 7 switched.
Product Advisor
The interactive tool allows you to select the desired networking product and environment and provides a list of product recommendations based on your preferences. Once you've narrowed your search to a few products, you can compare the recommended products on a feature-by-feature basis. Products available for review include: Routers, Switches, Wireless, and Security.
http://www.ciscowebtools.com/productadvisor/
Security Policy Builder
The Cisco Security Policy Builder will help you create a custom security policy tailored to your organization's specific requirements. After completing a short interview that helps navigate through key security issues and concerns, a custom security policy in MS Word format will be emailed to an email address you provide.
http://www.ciscowebtools.com/spb/child/1.0/index.asp
The Cisco Solution Designer demonstrates how 'SMB Class Solutions' (e.g. Network Foundation, Security) and 'Industry-specific Solutions' (e.g. Banking, Healthcare) may be successfully deployed in organizations with 1000 or fewer network users.
DESIGN A CUSTOM SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS
The Cisco Solution Designer demonstrates how Cisco Smart Business Communications may be successfully deployed in organizations with up to 1000 network users.
After completing a short requirements interview, you will be presented with a custom network reference design tailored to your organization's specific needs. You will also learn the components that make up the complete, end-to-end solution you choose. You will then have the opportunity to contact a Cisco expert for an in-depth network design customized for your organization's specific requirements. Network Foundation
Learn how a network foundation can be deployed in your organization that will be secure and reliable, while enabling you to deploy advanced technologies for additional productivity gains.
http://www.ciscowebtools.com/sa2/child/1.0/wizard.asp?qid=2&langid=1&did=151700&rid=10000&sid=5
This should get you started. Cisco is the leader and they have so much information on their website. The links above do not take a loging id to access but many areas do.
good luck
sew