Unit 611: Computer Networks and Security Fundamentals

1. Introduction to Computer Networks

1.1 Basics of Computer Networks

• Definition and purpose of computer networks
• Benefits of networking in modern computing

1.2 Types of Networks

• LAN (Local Area Network)
• WAN (Wide Area Network)
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
• PAN (Personal Area Network)
• Other emerging network types

1.3 Network Topologies

• Bus topology
• Star topology
• Ring topology
• Mesh topology
• Hybrid topology

1.4 Network Devices

• Routers
• Switches
• Hubs
• Bridges
• Access points

2. OSI Model and TCP/IP Protocol Suite

2.1 OSI Model Overview

• Purpose and significance
• Seven layers explained:
  • Physical
  • Data Link
  • Network
  • Transport
  • Session
  • Presentation
  • Application

2.2 TCP/IP Protocol Suite

• Overview and history
• Four layers explained:
  • Network Interface
  • Internet
  • Transport
  • Application
• Comparison of OSI and TCP/IP models

2.3 Protocol Examples and Functions

• IP, TCP, UDP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP, etc.

3. Network Security Fundamentals

3.1 Introduction to Network Security

• Importance and objectives (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)

3.2 Authentication

• Methods and protocols
• Passwords, biometrics, multi-factor authentication

3.3 Encryption

• Symmetric vs asymmetric encryption
• Common encryption algorithms

3.4 Firewalls

• Types (hardware, software)
• Functions and configurations

3.5 Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

• Types (Network-based, Host-based)
• Role in threat detection

3.6 Best Practices

• Security policies
• Patch management
• User education

4. Wireless Networks and Security

4.1 Wireless Networking Technologies

• Wi-Fi (802.11 standards)
• Bluetooth
• Cellular networks (3G, 4G, 5G)

4.2 Wireless Network Security Challenges

• Eavesdropping
• Unauthorized access
• Rogue access points

4.3 Encryption Protocols for Wireless

• WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3

4.4 Secure Authentication Methods

• 802.1X
• RADIUS
• VPNs over wireless

5. Network Architecture and Design

5.1 Network Protocols

• Role and examples

5.2 IP Addressing

• IPv4 addressing structure
• IPv6 overview
• Public vs private IPs

5.3 Subnetting

• Concepts and calculations
• Subnet masks

5.4 Routing

• Static vs dynamic routing
• Routing protocols (RIP, OSPF, BGP)

5.5 Switching

• Function of switches
• VLANs

5.6 Design Considerations

• Scalability
• Redundancy and fault tolerance
• Performance optimization

6. Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities

6.1 Common Cyber Threats

• Malware (viruses, worms, ransomware)
• Phishing attacks
• Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
• Social engineering

6.2 Vulnerabilities in Networks

• Software flaws
• Misconfigurations
• Unpatched systems

6.3 Mitigation Strategies

• Anti-malware tools
• User training
• Incident response planning

7. Cryptography and Secure Communication

7.1 Principles of Cryptography

• Confidentiality
• Integrity
• Authentication

7.2 Encryption Algorithms

• Symmetric key algorithms (AES, DES)
• Asymmetric key algorithms (RSA, ECC)

7.3 Hashing Functions

• Purpose and examples (SHA-2, MD5)

7.4 Digital Signatures

• Concept and use cases

7.5 Secure Communication Protocols

• SSL/TLS
• VPN protocols

8. Network Monitoring and Management

8.1 Network Monitoring Tools

• SNMP
• Wireshark
• Nagios

8.2 Performance Analysis

• Bandwidth monitoring
• Latency and packet loss

8.3 Security Incident Detection

• Log analysis
• Anomaly detection

8.4 Network Management Best Practices

• Configuration management
• Troubleshooting techniques
• Documentation