Networks
The type of computer network that Target uses is called a WAN or Wide Area Network, it is a set of connected networks serving areas or buildings that are not in immediate proximity to each other. This allows multiple computers to be connected with each other and share information, software and processing power. Target Corporation uses a switch network device that connects computers and passes messages by repeating each computer’s transmission to the intended recipient. Therefore, several computers can have different conversations at the same time which is why it is used by Target because it allows orders to be submitted by customers immediately and also simultaneously, they are then able to send that order to the supplier or to their inventory system. Target uses the wireless communication media through satellites which is cost effective when moving large amounts of information, such as when there is a large number of receiving sites, allowing each Target store to transmit information to the customers and suppliers. Target connects to the internet through DS3, a high speed business network that runs at 44.736 Mbps. This connection type is important for a business like Target because of the necessity to have a fast and reliable system in order to better serve customers. Another reason this internet connection is crucial is that Target needs to be connected 24/7 to not only its customers but also to the suppliers and delivery services. The DS3 system not only allows all the stored across the country to be connected to an intranet, which is accessible only to employees and Target executives, but it also connects them to the extranet, where they can access the official Target website that customers access. Voice over IP is not used by Target.
Target’s Four Principles of Network Security:
Confidentiality: information can only be obtained by those authorized to access it. Target strives to keep customer, employee, and company information as safe as possible. They utilize an encryption system to protect the information shared among the different stores across the U.S.
Authenticity: Target encourages their new users to choose a secure and unique user name and a strong password to protect them from identity theft. Their system actually measures the strength of the password the new customer is setting up and advises of the strength or weakness of the password they chose.
Integrity: Target’s mission is to ensure the safety of customers while using the store website either to obtain information or to make purchases. The use of security enhancing systems allows customers to trust the website and also builds a reputation that Target is committed to the safe handling of their customers’ personal information.
Availability: Target Corporation’s IT department assures efficient network operations. If the server were to be unavailable for a period of time, Target could lose a large amount of sales, but more importantly the negative effect that being unavailable would have on Target’s reputation. It is a priority of Target to maintain and service the network.Target’s domain name is http://www.target.com