CompTIA Network+ and MIS Comprehensive Notes

Module 1: Introduction to Networking
  • Instructor: Jill West
  • Book: CompTIA Network+ Guide to Networks, Ninth Edition. © 2022 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly accessible website, in whole or in part.
Icebreaker: Interview Simulation
  • Students pair up to interview each other on interesting or unusual facts.
  • Each pair introduces one another to the class with a relevant story connected to the course topics.
Module Objectives

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

  1. Distinguish between peer-to-peer and client-server networks
  2. Identify types of applications and protocols used on a network
  3. Describe various networking hardware devices and the most common physical topologies
  4. Describe the seven layers of the OSI model
  5. Explain best practices for safety when working with networks and computers
  6. Describe the seven-step troubleshooting model for troubleshooting network problems
Network Models
  • A computer network is defined as a collection of interconnected computing devices (nodes) such as computers, servers, and printers that exchange data and share resources.
  • Networks can be either wired (using Ethernet or fiber optic cables) or wireless (using Wi-Fi).
  • They enable communication, internet access, and file sharing, from small home networks to the global Internet.
Network Models & Topology
  • Topology: Refers to how different parts of a network are arranged.
    • Physical Topology: Relates to the network's hardware layout (e.g., cables, devices).
    • Logical Topology: Describes how data flows within the network and how software controls access.
  • Network Operating System (NOS): Essential for client-server models, facilitating access to the network.
Client-Server Network Model
  1. Resources are managed by the NOS via a centralized directory database.
  2. Windows Domain: A logical group of computers managed by a Windows Server.
  3. Active Directory (AD): Centralized directory database containing user account details and security information.
  4. Users can access resources from any computer on the network managed by Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS).
  5. A computer requesting data or services is termed a client.
Responsibilities of the NOS
  • Managing client data and resources - Ensuring authorized user access
  • Controlling user file access
  • Restricting network access
  • Dictating communication rules
  • Supplying applications and data to clients
Requirements for Servers
  • Need more memory, processing power, and storage capacity
  • Generally equipped with special hardware for network management functions
Client-Server Applications
  • Network Services: Applications and data resources available to users.
  • Example: A web browser (client application) requests a web page from a web server (server application), and the server returns the requested data.
Peer-to-Peer Network Model
  • In peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, each computer's OS controls access to its resources without centralized control.
  • Nodes or Hosts: Each computer acts independently within the logical group.
Advantages and Disadvantages of P2P
  • Advantages:
    • Simple configuration
    • Less expensive to set up
  • Disadvantages:
    • Not scalable
    • Security issues
    • Not suitable for large installations
Network Services & Their Protocols
  • Protocols: Defined as methods and rules governing communication between devices on a network.
  • Two primary network protocols:
    • TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)
    • IP (Internet Protocol)
Examples of Client-Server Applications
  • Web services
  • Email services
  • DNS services
  • FTP services
  • Database services
  • Remote access services
Knowledge Check (Activity 1-1)
  • Question: Which protocol could not be used to access a server in a nearby building?
  • Options: Telnet, RDP, TLS, SSH
  • Answer: c. TLS (Transport Layer Security) does not provide remote access, only encryption underlying other protocols.
Network Hardware
  • LAN (Local Area Network): Typically covers a small area and includes components such as computers, printers, and switches, often using a star topology.
  • Switch: Receives incoming data from ports and redirects it to intended destinations.
Key Concepts of Switches
  • NIC (Network Interface Card): A network port for devices to connect to a network; also called a network adapter.
  • A LAN may contain multiple switches. A backbone connects network segments.
Role of Routers
  • Routers manage traffic between multiple networks.
  • Can determine the best path for traffic to travel between networks.
  • SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) networks: Use routers to connect to the internet.
  • Industrial-Grade Routers: May include multiple ports for various networks.
Comparison: Routers vs. Switches
  • A router connects different local networks (acting as a gateway), whereas a switch operates within a local network only.
MANs and WANs
  • WAN (Wide Area Network): Connects multiple LANs over broader geographic areas.
  • MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Connects LANs within a specific geographic area, sometimes referred to as a campus area network (CAN).
  • PAN (Personal Area Network): Represents local device networks like smartphones and computers.
  • Notable types of networks:
    • BAN (Body Area Network)
    • SAN (Storage Area Network)
    • WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)
The Seven-Layer OSI Model
  • Purpose: Describes how hardware, software, and protocols interact during communication.
  • Layer 7: Application Layer: Interfaces applications on different devices.
  • Layer 6: Presentation Layer: Responsible for data reformatting and encryption.
  • Layer 5: Session Layer: Manages sessions, including synchronization and recovery of data.
  • Layer 4: Transport Layer: Responsible for transferring application payloads. Uses two protocols:
    • TCP: Connection-oriented, checks for data receipt.
    • UDP: Connectionless, does not check for receipt.
  • Layer 3: Network Layer: Moves messages between nodes, primarily uses IP.
  • Layer 2: Data Link Layer: Interfaces with physical hardware. Data Link Layer messages are called frames.
  • Layer 1: Physical Layer: Sends raw bit streams over physical medium. Data is transmitted as voltage, light, or wavelengths.
Protocol Data Unit (PDU)
  • Defined as a group of bits as they move through the OSI layers.
Knowledge Check (Activity 1-2)
  • Question: Which OSI layer adds both header and trailer?
  • Options: Transport layer, Network layer, Data Link layer, Physical layer
  • Answer: c. Data Link Layer.
Safety Procedures and Policies
  • Technicians must know safety procedures to protect themselves and components.
Emergency Procedures
  • Familiarize with emergency exits and fire suppression systems.
  • Use portable fire extinguishers and understand security measures during system failures.
Safety Best Practices
  1. Electrical and Tool Safety: Adhere to OSHA guidelines.
  2. Lifting Heavy Objects: Maintain proper posture and techniques.
  3. Static Electricity Precautions: Ground yourself and protect against ESD (Electrostatic Discharge).
Troubleshooting Network Problems
Seven-Step Troubleshooting Model
  1. Identify the problem and its symptoms.
  2. Establish a probable cause theory.
  3. Test the theory to determine the cause.
  4. Create a problem resolution plan.
  5. Implement the solution or escalate.
  6. Verify functionality; implement preventative measures.
  7. Document findings and actions.
Summary of Module 1
  • You should now be able to distinguish between P2P and Client-Server networks, identify applications and protocols, describe networking hardware types and topologies, understand the OSI model layers, explain safety best practices, and execute the troubleshooting model.
Module 2: Infrastructure and Documentation
Module Objectives

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

  1. Describe roles of various network and cabling equipment in commercial settings.
  2. Maintain network documentation.
  3. Manage network changes.
Structured Cabling
  • Follow ANSI/TIA-568 standard aiming for optimal media installation to maximize performance.
  • The structured cabling hierarchy is built on a star topology for networking.
From Demarc to Workstation
  • Entrance Facility (EF): Where the network connects to the organization.
  • Demarc Point: Where the service provider's network meets the organization's network.
  • MDF (Main Distribution Frame): Central connection point for LAN or WAN.
  • Data Room: Holds networking equipment.
  • Rack Systems: Platforms for organizing network equipment; available in various configurations.
Cabling Types
  • Patch Cable: Short run with connectors for immediate connection.
  • Horizontal Cabling: Connects workstations to the nearest data room.
  • Backbone Cabling: Connects network segments.
  • Quality cable installation is critical for reducing network problems.
Cable Management
  • Proper techniques for termination and management are vital for network functionality.
  • Pay attention to grounding and electromagnetic interference (EMI) when routing cables.
Monitoring Environment and Security
  • Data rooms include HVAC systems to control temperature and humidity.
  • Access should be restricted to authorized IT personnel for security.
Network Documentation Importance
  • Ensures efficient communication and speeds up troubleshooting with updated documentation.
Network Diagrams
  • Graphical representations for physical and logical layouts of the network; essential for planning and changes.
Change Management
  • Manage system changes with thorough planning and documentation to prevent disruptions.
Summary of Module 2
  • You should be able to describe infrastructure roles, maintain documentation, and manage changes within networks.
Module 5: Cabling
Module Objectives

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

  1. Explain basic data transmission concepts.
  2. Describe physical characteristics and standards for cabling types.
  3. Compare benefits and limitations of various media.
  4. Select and use the appropriate tools for troubleshooting cable issues.
Transmission Basics
  • Frequency: Measured in MHz or GHz; indicates electrical signal changes.
  • Bandwidth: Data theoretically transmitted over time.
  • Throughput: Actual data transmitted over time.
Transmission Flaws
  • Noise disrupts signal integrity; sources include EMI and cross-talk.
  • Attenuation: Signal strength loss as it travels.
  • Latency: Delay between signal transmission and receipt affecting performance.
Duplex Communication
  • Full-Duplex: Signals travel in both directions simultaneously.
  • Half-Duplex: Signals travel in both directions but only one direction at a time.
  • Simplex: Signals travel in only one direction.
Multiplexing
  • Technique allowing multiple signals through a single medium using multiplexers and demultiplexers.
  • Types include Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM), and their optical equivalents (WDM).
Types of Cables
  • Coaxial Cable: Used in networks, structured with an inner conductor, insulation, shielding, and sheath.
  • Twinaxial Cable: Similar to coax but features two conducting cores for higher throughput.
  • Twisted-Pair Cable: Composed of color-coded pairs; common in Ethernet networks categorized by cable type (e.g., Cat 3, Cat 5e).
Cable Management and Best Practices
  • Follow defined standards for cable pinouts and ensure proper terminations for effective communication.
Knowledge Check (Activity 5-1)
  • Question: What is the typical maximum segment length for Ethernet networks?
  • Answer: 100 meters.
Fiber-Optic Characteristics
  • Advantages include high throughput, noise resistance, and security.
  • Fiber types: Single-Mode Fiber (SMF) and Multimode Fiber (MMF), with differing core diameters and optimal uses.
Troubleshooting Tools
  • Tools include continuity testers, multimeters, and cable performance testers for effective diagnosis and corrections of signaling issues.
Summary of Module 5
  • Consolidate knowledge of transmission concepts, cabling characteristics, comparison between networking media, and solutions for troubleshooting cable problems.
Module 2: Computers and Their Business Applications
Module Objectives

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

  1. Define a computer system and its components.
  2. Discuss the history of computer hardware and software.
  3. Analyze the impact of computing power factors.
  4. Summarize basic computer operations.
  5. Discuss types of input, output, and memory devices.
  6. Discuss computers in business applications.
  7. Explain major types of software applications.
  8. List the generations of programming languages.
  9. Define object-oriented programming.
Defining a Computer
  • Computer Definition: A machine that accepts data, processes it, and outputs information.
  • Instructions: Programs written in a machine-understandable language.
Components of a Computer System
  1. Main Memory: Stores data and instructions.
  2. CPU (Central Processing Unit): Composed of:
    • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Executes arithmetic operations.
    • Control Unit: Directs operations.
  3. Buses: Link devices, classified as internal (e.g., video cards) and external (e.g., USB).
  4. Processor Types: Single, Multi-core (dual, quad, hexa, octa-core).
Computer History
  1. Major advancements over the last 80 years.
  2. Evolution from silicon-based technology to gallium arsenide and carbon nanotubes for improved performance.
Factors Impacting Computing Power
  1. Speed: Measured in fractions of seconds (milliseconds to picoseconds).
  2. Accuracy: Digital systems exceed human error handling.
  3. Storage and Retrieval Capabilities: Bits as the fundamental unit; understanding binary encoding and ASCII.
Storage Area Networks and NAS
  1. SAN (Storage Area Network): Dedicated high-speed networks for managing shared storage devices.
  2. NAS (Network-Attached Storage): Provides file-based data storage services to other devices.
Classifications of Computers
  1. Types: Classified by cost, memory, speed, and sophistication including mainframes, supercomputers, servers, and personal computers.
  2. Top Supercomputers: List including Fugaku and Summit.
Software Overview
  1. Types of Software: System vs. Application software with control programs managing hardware resources.
  2. Commercial software examples: Word processors, spreadsheets.
Programming Languages
  1. Generations: Ranging from Machine languages (1GL) to High-level languages (4GL) and AI technologies (5GL).
  2. Popular languages: Python, Java, JavaScript among others.
Object-Oriented Programming
  • Concepts involving classes, objects, and modular design lead to effective problem-solving and code reuse.
Summary of Module 2
  • You should now be able to define computer systems, understand their components, analyze their historical impact, and articulate software usages in business applications.