Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand the basic concepts and importance of networking in the digital age.
- Explain the OSI model and TCP/IP protocol suite and their roles in network communication.
- Identify network devices, components, and topologies, and describe their functions and characteristics.
- Learn IP addressing, subnetting, and the fundamentals of network security.
- Develop skills to troubleshoot common network issues and understand wireless networking technologies.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 869: Networking Fundamentals
1. What is Networking?
- Definition of Networking
- Importance of Networking in the Digital Age
- Types of Networks
- Local Area Network (LAN)
- Wide Area Network (WAN)
- Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- Personal Area Network (PAN)
- Other emerging network types
2. OSI Model Overview
- Introduction to OSI Model
- The Seven Layers of OSI Model
- Layer 1: Physical Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 2: Data Link Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 3: Network Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 4: Transport Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 5: Session Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 6: Presentation Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 7: Application Layer
- Function and examples
- Layer 1: Physical Layer
- Importance of OSI Model in Network Communication
3. TCP/IP Protocol Suite
- Introduction to TCP/IP
- Role of TCP/IP in Networking
- Layers of TCP/IP Model
- Network Interface Layer
- Internet Layer
- Transport Layer
- Application Layer
- Key Protocols
- IP (Internet Protocol)
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
- HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, DNS
- Data Transmission over the Internet Using TCP/IP
4. Network Devices and Components
- Overview of Network Devices
- Routers
- Functionality and usage
- Switches
- Functionality and usage
- Hubs
- Functionality and usage
- Modems
- Functionality and usage
- Network Interface Cards (NICs)
- Cables and Connectors
- Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.)
- Fiber optic cables
- Coaxial cables
5. Network Topologies
- Introduction to Network Topologies
- Bus Topology
- Structure
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Star Topology
- Structure
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Ring Topology
- Structure
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Mesh Topology
- Structure
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Hybrid Topology
- Structure
- Advantages and Disadvantages
6. IP Addressing and Subnetting
- Basics of IP Addressing
- IPv4 Addressing Scheme
- Structure and classes
- Public vs. Private IP addresses
- IPv6 Addressing Scheme
- Structure and necessity
- Introduction to Subnetting
- Purpose and benefits
- Subnet masks
- Calculating subnets
- Assigning and Managing IP Addresses
7. Network Security Fundamentals
- Importance of Network Security
- Firewalls
- Types and functions
- Encryption
- Basic concepts and methods
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
- Purpose and implementation
- Authentication
- Methods and protocols
- Common Security Threats
- Malware, phishing, spoofing, DoS attacks
- Best Practices for Securing Networks
8. Wireless Networking
- Wireless Networking Technologies
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
- Cellular Networks (3G, 4G, 5G)
- Wireless Protocols and Standards
- Security Considerations in Wireless Networks
- WPA, WPA2, WPA3
- Risks and mitigation
- Applications of Wireless Networking
9. Network Troubleshooting
- Common Network Issues
- Connectivity problems
- Performance issues
- Hardware failures
- Troubleshooting Methodologies
- Identify, Diagnose, Resolve, Verify
- Tools for Network Troubleshooting
- Ping, Traceroute, IPConfig/Ifconfig
- Network analyzers and sniffers
- Diagnostic software
- Best Practices for Effective Troubleshooting
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