I have been asked to help implement a network for a school. They have a MC3800 router with two serial ports and one Ethernet port. Since funds are limited to buy another ethernet module, someone designed the network using what they have. Here's the proposed design:
10 Mb feed from Cox Cable goes directly into a server's E0. Server is running Windows Server 2003 and Websense web filtering software. Filtered output leaves server's E1 and goes to Catalyst 4507R. Access is through one 48 port Ethernet module in the 4507R plus two local and seven remote 3550s connected via fiber.
I have never heard of terminating the network feed in a device other than a router. Will the proposed design work? If so, do you foresee any problems from not using a router? Finally, if we want to set up VLANs, can the 4507's Supervisor Engine IV route between them?