Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand fundamental concepts and components of computer networking.
- Explain different network topologies and their advantages and disadvantages.
- Describe the OSI and TCP/IP models and their role in data communication.
- Configure and manage IP addressing and subnetting effectively.
- Apply basic network security principles and troubleshooting techniques.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 164: Foundations of Computer Networking
1. Introduction to Computer Networking
- Definition and purpose of computer networking
- Types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN
- Key network components: hosts, nodes, links
- Importance of networking in modern computing and communication
2. Network Topologies
- Overview of network topology concept
- Bus topology
- Structure and device connection
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Star topology
- Structure and device connection
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Ring topology
- Structure and device connection
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Mesh topology
- Structure and device connection
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Hybrid topology
- Combining multiple topologies
- Use cases and benefits
3. OSI Model
- Introduction to the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model
- Seven layers overview:
- Physical Layer
- Data Link Layer
- Network Layer
- Transport Layer
- Session Layer
- Presentation Layer
- Application Layer
- Function and responsibilities of each layer
- Role of OSI model in standardizing communication protocols
4. TCP/IP Protocol Suite
- Overview of TCP/IP model layers
- Network Interface, Internet, Transport, Application
- Key protocols:
- IP (Internet Protocol): addressing & routing
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): connection-oriented communication
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol): connectionless communication
- How TCP/IP underpins the Internet and data transmission
5. Network Devices
- Routers: functions, routing decisions, configuration basics
- Switches: frame forwarding, VLAN support
- Hubs: basic operation and limitations
- Modems: role in network access and communication
- Access Points: wireless connectivity and configuration
- Comparative role of each device in network infrastructure
6. Subnetting and IP Addressing
- Introduction to IP addressing concepts
- IPv4 vs IPv6: differences and advantages
- Understanding subnet masks and their purpose
- Calculating subnets: CIDR notation, subnetting techniques
- Assigning IP addresses: static vs dynamic (DHCP)
- Best practices for efficient subnet design
7. Network Security
- Importance of network security
- Firewalls: types and functions
- Encryption fundamentals: securing data in transit
- VPNs (Virtual Private Networks): purpose and setup
- IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems)
- Best practices for securing networks and data
8. Wireless Networking
- Wireless networking basics
- Wi-Fi standards and 802.11 protocols overview
- Wireless security protocols: WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3
- Wireless network configuration and management
- Comparison between wired and wireless networking
9. Network Troubleshooting
- Common network problems: connectivity, latency, packet loss
- Troubleshooting tools: ping, traceroute, ipconfig/ifconfig, nslookup
- Systematic approach to diagnosing network issues
- Steps to resolve network connectivity problems
10. Network Management and Administration
- Role and responsibilities of network administrators
- Network management tools and software
- Network monitoring techniques and protocols (SNMP)
- Configuration management and documentation
- Best practices for network maintenance and scalability
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