ITN_01_NetworkingToday

Module 1: Networking Today

1. Module Objectives

• Describe state and trends in modern technologies.

• Topic Objectives:

  • Networks Affect Our Lives: Impact of networks on daily life.

  • Network Components: Role of host and network devices.

  • Network Representations and Topologies: Explanation of network diagrams.

  • Common Types of Networks: Characteristics of various networks.

  • Internet Connections: How LANs and WANs connect to the internet.

  • Reliable Networks: Four basic requirements of a reliable network.

  • Network Trends: Trends like BYOD, online collaboration, video, and cloud computing.

  • Network Security: Basic security threats and solutions.

  • The IT Professional: Employment opportunities in networking.

2. Introduction to Packet Tracer

• Getting Started with Packet Tracer:

  • Install Packet Tracer (version 8.2.2).

  • Use ITN 1.0.5 Packet Tracer Activity for exploration.

• Installation Guidance: Instruction for Windows users on launching and using Packet Tracer.

3. Networks Affect Our Lives

• Importance of Communication: Networks are vital for connectivity.

• Impact of the Internet: Reflection on how life is changed by the internet.

4. Network Components

• Host Roles:

  • Hosts: End devices that send/receive messages.

  • Servers: Provide information (email, web, file servers).

  • Clients: Request data from servers.

• Peer-to-Peer vs Client-Server Networks:

  • P2P: Devices act as both clients and servers, suitable for small networks.

  • Client-Server: Centralized administration, better for larger networks.

• End Devices & Intermediary Devices:

  • End Devices: Originate and receive messages.

  • Intermediary Devices: Manage data delivery (switches, routers).

• Network Media Types:

  • Metal wires (electrical voltages)

  • Fiber optics (light pulses)

  • Wireless transmission (electromagnetic waves)

5. Network Representations and Topologies

• Network Diagrams: Use of symbols in topology diagrams.

• Physical vs Logical Topologies: Physical refers to actual locations; logical refers to data flow and addressing.

6. Common Types of Networks

• Small Home Networks: Few computers connecting locally.

• Medium to Large Networks: Extensive connections across locations.

• LAN vs WAN:

  • LAN: Limited geographical area, administered by one entity.

  • WAN: Spans large geographical areas, administered by multiple service providers.

• The Internet: Global network of interconnected LANs and WANs.

• Intranets and Extranets: Private networks accessible to specific users.

7. Internet Connections

• Access Technologies: Different options for users and businesses (cable, DSL, wireless).

• Home Connections: Various types including cable, DSL, cellular, satellite, and dial-up.

• Business Connections: Higher bandwidth options and dedicated connections for corporate needs.

• Converging Networks: Integration of data, voice, and video on one network, simplifying infrastructure.

8. Reliable Networks

• Network Characteristics:

  • Fault Tolerance: Redundant paths to limit failure impact.

  • Scalability: Flexibility to grow without performance loss.

  • Quality of Service (QoS): Ensuring reliable content delivery.

  • Security: Protecting information and maintaining integrity.

9. Network Trends

• Current Trends Influencing Networking:

  • BYOD: User flexibility with personal devices.

  • Collaboration Tools: Enhancing teamwork through technologies.

  • Video Communications: Essential for effective interaction.

  • Cloud Computing: Store and access data via the internet.

10. Network Security

• Security Importance: Protecting networks from threats (external and internal).

• Common Threats: Viruses, denial of service attacks, etc.

• Preventative Solutions: Antivirus, firewalls, intrusion prevention, etc.

11. The IT Professional

• CCNA Certification: Validating foundational knowledge in networking.

• Career Opportunities: Resources to find jobs in networking.

12. Module Review

• Key concepts learned include:

  • Importance of networks in connectivity, network architecture, different network types, and security solutions.