Netplus9e_PPT_Mod 02 - Tagged

Module Overview

  • Title: CompTIA Network+ Guide to Networks, 9th Edition

  • Focus: Infrastructure and Documentation

Module Objectives

  • By the end of this module, students should be able to:

    • Describe the roles of various network and cabling equipment in commercial buildings and work areas.

    • Maintain network documentation.

    • Manage changes made to a network.

Components of Structured Cabling

  • ANSI/TIA-568 Commercial Building Wiring Standard:

    • Known as structured cabling.

    • Describes optimal installation of networking media to maximize performance and minimize upkeep.

    • Applies to all media types, transmission technologies, and networking speeds.

    • Based on hierarchical design, assumes star topology.

From the Demarc to a Workstation

Key Concepts

  • Entrance Facility (EF):

    • Point of connection between incoming network and organization’s network.

  • Demarc (Demarcation Point):

    • Marks the boundary between telecommunications provider’s network and organization’s network.

  • MDF (Main Distribution Frame):

    • Centralized point of interconnection for LAN/WAN.

    • Also called MC (Main Cross Connect).

  • Data Room:

    • Enclosed space housing network equipment (e.g., data closet).

  • Rack:

    • Holds various network devices.

  • Patch Panel:

    • Provides a central termination point for multiple patch cables.

Building Layouts

  • Diagrams illustrate structured cabling within campus networks.

VoIP Equipment

  • VoIP (Voice over IP):

    • Utilizes TCP/IP protocols to carry voice signals across networks.

    • May include:

      • VoIP Gateway

      • VoIP PBX

      • VoIP Endpoints

  • Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF):

    • Provides connection between MDF and end-user equipment.

Work Areas

  • Definition of work area includes workstations, printers, and other devices.

  • Wall Jacks:

    • Designated outlets must support voice and data connections.

Rack Systems

  • Types of Racks:

    • Available in two-post, four-post varieties; may also be wall-mounted, freestanding, or bolted.

  • Considerations:

    • Height measured in rack units (standard is 42U).

    • Width standard is 19 inches; depth varies.

  • Cooling Layout:

    • Hot aisle/cold aisle layout essential for data centers.

Cable Management

Key Practices

  • Termination:

    • Avoid overexposing twisted-pair cables beyond 1 inch before termination.

  • Bend Radius:

    • Maintain manufacturer's specified bend radius to preserve data integrity.

  • Continuity Testing:

    • Use cable testers to ensure segment reliability.

  • EMI Precautions:

    • Keep cables 3 feet away from fluorescent lights or EMI sources.

Best Practices for Documentation

  • Cable Plant Documentation:

    • Essential for efficient network management; includes labeling and inventory.

  • Grounding Requirements:

    • Vital for safe and effective cable management.

Security Measures for Data Rooms

  • Environment Monitoring:

    • Use specialized products to control temperature, humidity, and airflow.

  • Physical Security:

    • Lock data rooms; limited access for IT personnel, including security camera installation.

Network Documentation Importance

  • Benefits:

    • Efficient communication among coworkers.

    • Speeds up troubleshooting and information retrieval for future issues.

Network Diagrams

  • Provide visual representation of network structure, helping in planning and management.

  • Tools:

    • Nmap for device discovery; Cisco-standard symbols for diagrams.

    • Types of diagrams:

      • Wiring Schematics: Shows detailed wiring connections.

      • Rack Diagrams: Device arrangement in rack systems.

Change Management Principles

Types of Changes

  • Software Changes:

    • Installation, Patch, Upgrade, and Rollback (previous versions).

  • Hardware Changes:

    • Includes additions or upgrades of equipment like cameras or printers.

Documentation for Changes

  • Essential documentation practices include:

    • Change request documents, understanding approval processes, and documenting network configurations.

Essential Business Documents in Networking

  • RFP: Request for Proposal for purchasing proposals from vendors.

  • MOU: Memorandum of Understanding detailing agreements between parties.

  • SOW: Statement of Work detailing project tasks.

  • SLA: Service Level Agreement defining service criteria between provider and customer.

  • MSA: Master Service Agreement outlining future contract terms.

Conclusion

  • Knowledge of network and cabling equipment roles in commercial environments, network documentation maintenance, and effective change management is critical for success.