Unit 847: Fundamentals of Computer Networks

1. Introduction to Computer Networks

• Definition of Computer Networks
• Types of Networks
  • Local Area Network (LAN)
  • Wide Area Network (WAN)
  • Personal Area Network (PAN)
  • Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Network Components
  • Network Interface Cards (NICs)
  • Switches and Routers
  • Hubs and Repeaters
  • Cables and Connectors
• Importance of Computer Networks in Modern Society
  • Communication and Collaboration
  • Resource Sharing
  • Internet and Cloud Computing

2. Network Topologies

• Overview of Network Topologies
• Bus Topology
  • Structure and Operation
  • Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Typical Applications
• Star Topology
  • Structure and Operation
  • Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Typical Applications
• Ring Topology
  • Structure and Operation
  • Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Typical Applications
• Mesh Topology
  • Structure and Operation
  • Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Typical Applications
• Hybrid Topology
  • Combining Multiple Topologies
  • Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Use Cases

3. Network Protocols

• Introduction to Network Protocols
• TCP/IP Protocol Suite
  • Overview and Layers
  • IP, TCP, UDP Roles
• HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)
  • Functionality and Use in Web Communication
• FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
  • Purpose and Operation
• SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)
  • Role in Email Transmission
• Standards and Importance of Protocols in Data Communication

4. OSI Model

• Overview of the OSI Model
• Seven Layers of the OSI Model
  1. Physical Layer
     • Transmission of raw bits
  2. Data Link Layer
     • Framing, MAC addresses
  3. Network Layer
     • Routing, IP addressing
  4. Transport Layer
     • End-to-end communication, TCP/UDP
  5. Session Layer
     • Session management
  6. Presentation Layer
     • Data translation, encryption
  7. Application Layer
     • Network services to applications
• Data Flow Through OSI Layers
• Comparison with TCP/IP Model

5. IP Addressing and Subnetting

• Introduction to IP Addressing
• IPv4 vs. IPv6
  • Format and Address Space
• Classes of IP Addresses (A, B, C, D, E)
• Public vs. Private IP Addresses
• Subnetting Concepts
  • Subnet Masks
  • Calculating Subnets and Hosts
• Assigning IP Addresses to Devices
• Role of DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

6. Network Security Fundamentals

• Importance of Network Security
• Common Security Threats
  • Malware (Viruses, Worms, Trojan Horses)
  • Phishing Attacks
  • Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed DoS (DDoS)
• Security Measures
  • Firewalls
  • Encryption Techniques
  • Authentication Protocols (e.g., WPA, SSL/TLS)
• Best Practices for Securing Networks
  • Regular Updates and Patching
  • Strong Password Policies
  • Network Monitoring

7. Wireless Networks

• Overview of Wireless Networking
• Wireless Standards
  • Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11)
  • Bluetooth
  • LTE and Cellular Networks
• Wireless Network Components
• Wireless Security Considerations
  • WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3
  • Risks and Mitigation Strategies
• Advantages and Challenges of Wireless Networks
  • Mobility and Convenience
  • Interference and Security Issues
  • Range and Bandwidth Limitations

8. Network Troubleshooting

• Common Network Issues
  • Connectivity Problems
  • IP Conflicts
  • Slow Network Performance
• Troubleshooting Techniques
  • Identifying the Problem
  • Isolating the Fault
• Diagnostic Tools
  • Ping
  • Traceroute
  • ipconfig / ifconfig
  • Network Analyzers
• Steps to Resolve Network Issues
  • Restarting Devices
  • Checking Configurations
  • Updating Firmware and Drivers
  • Escalating to Advanced Support