Network+

Introduction to Networks

This course is designed to provide a full overview of computer networking. Knowing how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network is a highly marketable and exciting skill. This course first introduces the fundamental building blocks that form a modern network, such as protocols, media, topologies, and hardware. It then provides in depth coverage of the most important concepts in contemporary networking, such as:

• TCP/IP
• Ethernet
• wireless transmission
• virtual networks
• security
• troubleshooting

After completing this course and completing the exercises, you will be prepared to select the best network design, hardware, and software for your environment. You will also have the skills to build a network from scratch and maintain, upgrade, troubleshoot, and manage an existing network. Finally, you will be well-prepared to pass CompTIA’s Network+ N10-007 certification exam.

Job Outlook

BLS Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.

Despite limited employment growth, about 24,900 openings for network and computer systems administrators are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

FAQs

What are the most common Network+ job titles?

• Systems administrator
• Systems technician
• Network engineer
• Network administrator
• IT consultant
• Computer technician
• Help desk technician
• System engineer
• Network support specialist
• Network analyst

Course Objectives

• Describe models such as the OSI seven-layer model and the TCP/IP four-layer model; explain the major functions of network hardware and software; and relate each function to the appropriate OSI and TCP/IP model layer.
• Explain the different types of network topologies; describe the different types of network cabling; and describe the IEEE networking standards.
• Define and describe Ethernet and explain early Ethernet implementations; describe ways to extend and enhance Ethernet networks.
• Distinguish among varieties of 100-megabit Ethernet; discuss copper- and fiber-based Gigabit Ethernet; and compare the competing varieties of 10-Gigabit Ethernet.
• Recognize and describe the functions of basic components in a structured cabling system; explain the process of installing structured cable; install a network interface card; and perform basic troubleshooting on a structured cable network.
• Describe how the Internet Protocol (IP) works; explain CIDR and subnetting; and describe the functions of static and dynamic IP addresses.
• Explain how routers work; describe dynamic routing technologies; and install and configure a router successfully.
• Describe common Transport layer protocols; explain the power of port numbers; and define common TCP/IP applications, such as HTTP, HTTPS, Telnet, e-mail (SMTP, POP3, and IMAP4), and FTP.
• Describe the function and capabilities of DNS; configure and troubleshoot WINS; and use common TCP/IP utilities to diagnose problems with DNS and WINS.
• Discuss the standard methods for securing TCP/IP networks; compare TCP/IP security standards; and implement secure TCP/IP applications.
• Discuss the four logical topologies as defined by CompTIA; configure and deploy VLANs; and implement advanced switch features.
• Discuss the fundamental concepts of IPv6; describe IPv6 practices; and implement IPv6 in a TCP/IP network.
• Describe WAN telephony technologies, such as SONET, T1, and T3; compare last-mile connections for connecting homes and businesses to the Internet; and discuss and implement various remote access connections.
• Explain wireless networking standards; describe the process for implementing Wi-Fi networks; and describe troubleshooting techniques for wireless networks.
• Describe the concepts of virtualization; explain why PC and network administrators have widely adopted virtualization; describe how virtualization manifests in modern networks; and describe the service layers and architectures that make up cloud computing.
• Explain the capabilities of different mobile networking technologies; describe common deployment schemes for mobile devices; and deal with sample security issues with mobile devices.
• Explain the concepts of basic network design; describe unified communication features and functions; and describe the function and major components of an ICS/SCADA network.
• Describe the industry standards for risk management; discuss contingency planning; and examine safety standards and actions.
• Discuss common security threats in network computing; discuss common vulnerabilities inherent in networking; describe methods for hardening a network against attacks; and explain how firewalls protect a network from threats.
• Explain how SNMP works, describe network monitoring tools, and discuss a scenario that uses management and monitoring tools.
• Describe appropriate troubleshooting tools and their functions; analyze and discuss the troubleshooting process; and resolve common network issues.

Prerequisites

CompTIA A+ certification or course equivalent recommended.

Curriculum

1. Introduction to Networking
2. Network Infrastructure and Documentation
3. Addressing on Networks
4. Network Protocols and Routing
5. Network Cabling
6. Wireless Networking
7. Virtualization and Cloud Computing
8. Subnets and VLANs
9. Network Risk Management
10. Security in Network Design
11. Network Performance and Recovery
12. Wide Area Networks

Note:

This class is delivered virtually via Zoom