Unit 4606: Data Networks Fundamentals

1. Introduction to Data Networks

1.1 Purpose of Networks

• Definition and importance of data networks
• Benefits of networking

1.2 Types of Networks

• Local Area Networks (LAN)
• Wide Area Networks (WAN)
• Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN)

1.3 Network Components

• Routers: Function and role
• Switches: Operation and types
• Hubs: Characteristics and limitations

1.4 The OSI Model

• Overview of the 7 layers
• Functions of each layer
• How the OSI model facilitates communication

2. Network Protocols

2.1 Role of Protocols in Networks

• Definition and importance
• Protocol suites vs individual protocols

2.2 Key Protocols

• TCP/IP: Structure and usage
• HTTP: Web communication
• FTP: File transfer
• Additional protocols: SMTP, DNS, DHCP

2.3 Protocol Operation

• Connection-oriented vs connectionless protocols
• Protocol stacks and encapsulation

3. Ethernet and Wireless Networks

3.1 Ethernet Networks

• Ethernet standards (e.g., 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, Gigabit Ethernet)
• Cable types (twisted pair, fiber optic, coaxial)
• Network configurations and topologies

3.2 Wireless Networks

• Wi-Fi standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
• Wireless access points and devices
• Security considerations (WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3)

3.3 Comparison: Ethernet vs Wireless

• Advantages and disadvantages
• Performance and reliability differences

4. IP Addressing and Subnetting

4.1 IP Address Structure

• IPv4 addressing format
• IPv6 addressing format and benefits

4.2 Subnet Masks

• Purpose and usage
• Default subnet masks by class (A, B, C)

4.3 Subnetting

• Concepts and calculation techniques
• CIDR notation
• Subnetting examples and exercises

4.4 Role of IP Addressing in Routing

• Address resolution
• Routing decisions using IP addresses

5. Routing and Switching

5.1 Routing Concepts

• Purpose of routing
• Routing algorithms (distance vector, link state)

5.2 Routing Protocols

• RIP (Routing Information Protocol)
• OSPF (Open Shortest Path First)
• BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) overview

5.3 Switching Concepts

• Role of switches in LANs
• MAC address tables
• Frame forwarding methods

6. Network Security

6.1 Network Threats and Vulnerabilities

• Types of attacks (DoS, phishing, man-in-the-middle)
• Common vulnerabilities

6.2 Security Countermeasures

• Encryption basics
• Firewalls and their types
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

6.3 Best Practices

• Network segmentation
• Access control
• Security policies and user education

7. Quality of Service (QoS) in Networks

7.1 Understanding QoS

• Definition and importance
• Impact on data transmission

7.2 QoS Mechanisms

• Traffic classification and prioritization
• Bandwidth management
• Latency, jitter, and packet loss considerations

7.3 Implementing QoS

• Examples in Ethernet and wireless networks
• QoS protocols and standards

8. Network Management and Monitoring

8.1 Network Management Overview

• Objectives and challenges
• Network management models

8.2 Network Management Protocols

• SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol)
• Other protocols and tools

8.3 Monitoring Tools

• Performance monitoring
• Troubleshooting strategies
• Alerts and reporting

8.4 Performance Optimization

• Network tuning
• Capacity planning