Comprehensive network infrastructure and VPN between warehouse branches

A two-location electrical wholesaler needed stable and secure communication between branches and a central sales system. I designed and implemented a complete network infrastructure – from VPN and LAN, through device configuration, to the integration of scanners, cash registers, and network printers.

Project Description

As part of the technical support for an electrical wholesaler based in Sobótka and a branch in Wrocław, I designed and implemented a complete network infrastructure enabling the secure and stable operation of the sales system at two locations.

My work included:

1. Network architecture and configuration (LAN + WAN)

  • Analysis of the business needs and technical constraints of both points of sale.
  • Design of a coherent network environment spanning two branches.
  • Segmentation and configuration of the LAN network – computers, warehouse, and sales stations.
  • Ensuring stable communication with the central sales system database.

2. VPN network construction and setup (location ↔ location)

  • Launching a permanent VPN tunnel (VPN server in Sobótka, VPN clients in Wrocław).
  • Configuring encryption, routing, and access policies.
  • Optimization for performance and reliability to ensure smooth system operation in multi-site mode.

3. Integration of sales devices and systems

  • Connection with the warehouse/sales system operating in Sobótka.
  • Integration of:
    – laser barcode scanners,
    – cash registers,
    – network printers,
    – LAN workstation computers in both locations.
  • Configuring ports, drivers, resource sharing, and print queues.

4. Stabilization and security

  • Monitoring VPN tunnel traffic and load.
  • Access security (firewall, rules, restrictions).
  • Configuration backups and post-implementation procedures.
  • Performance and load testing of the sales application.

Business Impact

  1. Both locations were able to operate as one cohesive system – shared database, shared sales, and current inventory.
  2. Employees in Wrocław received immediate access to data from Sobótka, without manually transferring data.
  3. Scanners, printers, and cash registers operated without delays, despite operating over a VPN tunnel.
  4. Increased security, operational stability, and simplified daily operations.

Technologies and Tools

  • Computer Networks: Routing, VLAN/LAN, Network Device Configuration
  • VPN: OpenVPN / IPSec (depending on the device), persistent server-client tunnel
  • Windows Server: Domain, User, and Permission Configuration
  • MSSQL Express: Database Hosted on Localhost
  • Hardware Integration: Barcode Scanners, Cash Registers, Network Printers
  • Systems Administration: Windows, LAN, Remote Access, Policies
  • Security: Firewall, Access Policies, Monitoring
  • Systems Engineering: Network Design, Documentation, Post-Implementation Procedures

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