About this Course

You will describe the major networking technologies, systems, skills, and tools in use in modern networks.

Audience Profile

This course is intended for entry-level computer support professionals with a basic knowledge of computer hardware, software, and operating systems to prepare for the CompTIA® Network+® (Exam N10-005), or who wish to increase their knowledge and understanding of networking concepts and acquire the required skills to prepare for a career in network support or administration. A typical student taking up the CompTIA® Network+® (Exam N10-005) course should have a minimum of nine months or more of professional computer support experience as a PC or help desk technician. Networking experience is helpful but not mandatory; A+ certification or equivalent skills and knowledge is helpful but not mandatory.

At Course Completion

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• identify the basic network theory concepts.
• identify the major network communications methods.
• describe network media and hardware components.
• identify the major types of network implementations.
• identify the components of a TCP/IP network implementation.
• identify TCP/IP addressing and data delivery methods.
• identify the major services deployed on TCP/IP networks.
• identify the components of a LAN implementation.
• identify the infrastructure of a WAN implementation.
• identify the components of a remote network implementation.
• identify the major issues and methods to secure systems on a network.
• identify the major issues and technologies in network security.
• identify network security threats and attacks.
• identify the tools, methods, and techniques used in managing a network.
• describe troubleshooting of issues on a network.

Prerequisites

To ensure your success, you will need basic Windows end-user computer skills. To meet this prerequisite, you can take any one or more of the following courses, or have equivalent experience:

• Introduction to Personal Computers: Using Windows XP
• Windows XP Professional: An Introduction
• Introduction to Personal Computers: Using Windows 7
• Microsoft® Windows® 7: Level 1
• Microsoft® Windows® 7: Level 2

Course Outline

1.0 Network architecture

• 1.1 Explain the functions and applications of various network devices
• 1.2 Compare and contrast the use of networking services and applications
• 1.3 Install and configure the following networking services/applications
• 1.4 Explain the characteristics and benefits of various WAN technologies
• 1.5 Install and properly terminate various cable types and connectors using appropriate tools
• 1.6 Differentiate between common network topologies
• 1.7 Differentiate between network infrastructure implementations
• 1.8 Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate addressing schema
• 1.9 Explain the basics of routing concepts and protocols
• 1.10 Identify the basics elements of unified communication technologies
• 1.11 Compare and contrast technologies that support cloud and virtualization
• 1.12 Given a set of requirements, implement a basic network

2.0 Network operations

• 2.1 Given a scenario, use appropriate monitoring tools
• 2.2 Given a scenario, analyze metrics and reports from monitoring and tracking performance tools
• 2.3 Given a scenario, use appropriate resources to support configuration management
• 2.4 Explain the importance of implementing network segmentation
• 2.5 Given a scenario, install and apply patches and updates
• 2.6 Given a scenario, configure a switch using proper features
• 2.7 Install and configure wireless LAN infrastructure and implement the appropriate technologies in support of wireless capable devices

3.0 Network security

• 3.1 Compare and contrast risk related concepts
• 3.2 Compare and contrast common network vulnerabilities and threats
• 3.3 Given a scenario, implement network hardening techniques
• 3.4 Compare and contrast physical security controls
• 3.5 Given a scenario, install and configure a basic firewall
• 3.6 Explain the purpose of various network access control models
• 3.7 Summarize basic forensic concepts

4.0 Troubleshooting

• 4.1 Given a scenario, implement the following network troubleshooting methodology
• 4.2 Given a scenario, analyze and interpret the output of troubleshooting tools
• 4.3 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common wireless issues
• 4.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common copper cable issues
• 4.5 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common fiber cable issues
• 4.6 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common network issues
• 4.7 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common security issues
• 4.8 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common WAN issues

5.0 Industry standards, practices, and network theory

• 5.1 Analyze a scenario and determine the corresponding OSI layer
• 5.2 Explain the basics of network theory and concepts
• 5.3 Given a scenario, deploy the appropriate wireless standard
• 5.4 Given a scenario, deploy the appropriate wired connectivity standard
• 5.5 Given a scenario, implement the appropriate policies or procedures
• 5.6 Summarize safety practices
• 5.7 Given a scenario, install and configure equipment in the appropriate location using best practices
• 5.8 Explain the basics of change management procedures
• 5.9 Compare and contrast the following ports and protocols
• 5.10 Given a scenario, configure and apply the appropriate ports and protocols