Networking

Knowing how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network is a highly marketable and exciting skill. This course first introduces the fundamental building blocks that form a modern network, such as hardware, topologies, and protocols, along with an introduction to the OSI model. It then provides indepth coverage of the most important concepts in contemporary networking, including TCP/IP, Ethernet, wireless transmission, virtual networks, cloud computing, segmentation, security, performance optimization, and troubleshooting. After reading the modules and completing the exercises, you will be prepared to select the network design, hardware, and software that best fit your environment. You will also have the skills to build a network from scratch and maintain, upgrade, troubleshoot, and manage an existing network. Finally, you will be well-prepared to take CompTIA’s Network+ N10-008 certification exam.

This course explains technical concepts logically and in a clear, approachable style. In addition, concepts are reinforced by real-world examples of networking issues from a professional’s standpoint. Each module opens with an “On the Job” story from a network engineer, technician, or administrator. These insightful stories of actual events, along with Applying Concepts activities, Hands-On Projects, and Capstone Projects in each module, make this text a practical learning tool. The numerous tables and color illustrations, along with the glossary, appendices, and study questions, provide a valuable reference for any networking professional.

1. Introduction to Networking
• Distinguish between peer-to-peer and client-server networks identify types of applications and protocols used on a network
• Describe various networking hardware devices and the most common physical topologies
• Describe the seven layers of the OSI model
• Explain best practices for safety when working with networks and computers
• Describe the seven-step troubleshooting model for troubleshooting network problems
2. Infrastructure and Documentation
• Describe the roles of various network and cabling equipment in commercial buildings and work areas
• Maintain network documentation
• Manage changes made to a network
3. Addressing
• Work with MAC addresses
• Configure TCP/IP settings on a computer, including IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers
• Identify the ports of several common network protocols
• Describe domain names and the name resolution process
• Use command-line tools to troubleshoot common network problems
4. Protocols
• Describe the functions of core TCP/IP protocols
• Identify how each protocol’s information is formatted in a TCP/IP message
• Secure network connections using encryption protocols
• Configure remote access connections between devices
• Employ various TCP/IP utilities for network discovery and troubleshooting
5. Cabling
• Explain basic data transmission concepts, including frequency, bandwidth, throughput, multiplexing, and common transmission flaws
• Describe the physical characteristics of and official standards for coaxial cable, twinaxial cable, twisted-pair cable, fiber-optic cable, and their related connectors
• Compare the benefits and limitations of various networking media
• Select and use the appropriate tool to troubleshoot common cable problems
6. Wireless Networking
• Describe characteristics of wireless transmissions
• Explain 802.11 standards and innovations
• Plan a Wi-Fi network
• Secure a Wi-Fi network
• Troubleshoot a Wi-Fi network