Notes on Networking Infrastructure

Breakdown Of Questions

  • 30 questions on general network terminology and concepts

  • 15 questions on network operating system concepts

  • 15 questions on network security

  • 15 questions on equipment for network access (Wi-Fi, wireless)

  • 10 questions on OSI model functionality

  • 15 questions on network topologies and connectivity

General Network Terminology and Concepts

  • Purposes of installing a network include communication, resource sharing, centralized management, remote access, and data backup.

  • Benefits of installing a network include automation, cost reduction, collaboration, scalability, and instant access to information.

  • Risks of installing a network involve security threats, data privacy issues, and downtime impacts.

Types of Networks

  • Local Area Network (LAN) is limited to a small area and used for communication and resource sharing.

  • Wide Area Network (WAN) covers a larger geographic area and connects multiple branches.

  • Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a city or metropolitan area and is used for high-speed internet access.

Basic Networking Terminology and Concepts

  • Definitions of network, node, protocol, IP address, router, switch, gateway, bandwidth, firewall, and DNS.

Network Operating Systems

  • Novell NetWare, Linux, and Apple macOS Server are examples of network operating systems.

Relationship Between Computer Networks and Communications Networks

  • Integration of digital technologies like VoIP for data and voice communication.

  • Shared infrastructure, interoperability standards, and security measures for seamless communication.

Network Environments

  • Peer-to-peer, client-server, thin client, n-tier, internetworks, intranets, and extranets.

  • Characteristics and applications of each network environment.

Peer-to-Peer and Client-Server Networks

  • Advantages and disadvantages of P2P and client-server networks in terms of decentralization, security, scalability, and reliability.

Services Delivered by a Server

  • Application server, communication server, domain/directory server, fax server, file and print server, mail server, and web server.

  • Functions and examples of each type of server.

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  • Microsoft Active Directory, LDAP servers, Novell eDirectory

    • Examples of directory services used for user authentication and authorization.

  • Fax Server

    • Facilitates sending and receiving fax messages over a network.

    • Converts digital documents to fax format and vice versa.

    • Examples include software-based and hardware-based fax servers.

  • File and Print Server

    • Stores and manages shared files and folders.

    • Provides centralized file storage and access control for users and applications.

    • Examples include Windows File Server, NFS servers, and CUPS print servers.

  • Mail Server

    • Handles email services for users and domains.

    • Examples include SMTP servers for outgoing email and IMAP/POP3 servers for incoming email.

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  • Web Server

    • Hosts and serves web pages, applications, and content over the internet.

    • Examples include Apache HTTP Server, Nginx, and Microsoft IIS.

  • Printer Service

    • Utilizes Print Management Software for managing printers and print jobs.

    • Print Server is responsible for managing and processing print requests.

  • DNS Service

    • DNS Server Software implements the DNS protocol for translating domain names into IP addresses.

    • DNS Server resolves domain names to IP addresses and vice versa.

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  • DHCP Service

    • DHCP Server Software automates the assignment of IP addresses and network configuration parameters.

    • DHCP Server dynamically assigns IP addresses and network settings to client devices.

  • Internet Services

    • Web Server Software hosts web pages and handles HTTP requests.

    • Internet Server hosts and serves web content and applications over the internet.

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  • Incident Tracking System

    • Used to log, track, and manage incidents reported by users.

    • Key features include ticket creation, assignment, status tracking, and escalation procedures.

  • Knowledge Database

    • Repository of information, solutions, articles, and troubleshooting steps.

    • Features include search capabilities, version control, collaboration, and self-service portal.

  • Staffing and Resource Allocation

    • Involves allocating help desk staff, technicians, and resources to manage incidents and provide support services.

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  • ISP Role

    • Provides internet connectivity, network infrastructure, data transmission, IP address allocation, internet access plans, email and web hosting, technical support, security services, and compliance with regulations.

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  • DNS, DHCP, WINS, and Host Files

    • DNS (Domain Name System)

      • Translates domain names into IP addresses and vice versa.

      • Facilitates routing of network traffic between devices.

    • DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

      • Dynamically assigns IP addresses and network settings to client devices.

      • Automates IP address allocation and simplifies network administration.

    • WINS (Windows Internet Name Service)

      • Legacy service for resolving NetBIOS computer names to IP addresses in Windows networks.

    • Host Files

      • Maps IP addresses to hostnames or specifies local network configurations.

      • Provides a local DNS-like mechanism for mapping hostnames to IP addresses.

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  • Current Protocols

    • AppleTalk, TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, NETBEUI, DHCP

      • Different protocols used for network communication and addressing.

Network Protocols and Standards

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  • AppleTalk:

    • Legacy networking protocol by Apple for Macintosh computers.

    • Facilitated communication and file sharing in early Macintosh networks.

    • Key Points:

      • Used in older Macintosh networks.

      • Provided file sharing, printer sharing, and network communication.

      • Replaced by modern protocols like TCP/IP.

  • TCP/IP:

    • Standard networking protocol suite for internet and modern networks.

    • Includes TCP, IP, UDP, ICMP, and others.

    • Key Points:

      • Widely used in today's internet.

      • Provides reliable communication and network functions.

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  • IPX/SPX:

    • Networking protocol suite by Novell for NetWare networks.

    • Used in older Novell NetWare networks.

    • Provided file sharing, print sharing, and network communication.

  • NETBEUI:

    • Legacy protocol by IBM and Microsoft for Windows-based LANs.

    • Used in older Windows-based LANs for file and printer sharing.

  • DHCP:

    • Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol for automated IP address assignment.

    • Key Points:

      • Widely used in modern networks.

      • Simplifies network administration.

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  • IEEE:

    • Develops standards for networking and communications.

    • Standards like Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth ensure interoperability.

  • RFCs:

    • Documents by Internet Engineering Task Force for internet standards.

    • Cover TCP/IP protocols, security protocols, and more.

  • ISO:

    • Develops standards for networking and telecommunications globally.

    • Provides guidelines for reliable and secure networking solutions.

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  • NIC:

    • Establishes physical connection between device and network.

    • Manages network protocols and communication processes.

  • MAC Address:

    • Unique identifier for network interfaces.

    • Used for addressing and identifying devices in networks.

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  • MAC Address Uses:

    • Addressing and identifying devices at the data link layer.

    • Used in network security and troubleshooting.

Network Media Terminology

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  • Shielding:

    • Protects network cables from electromagnetic interference.

  • Crosstalk:

    • Unwanted interference between adjacent conductors.

  • Attenuation:

    • Reduction in signal strength during transmission.

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  • Broadband:

    • High-speed internet access with faster data rates.

  • ISDN:

    • Digital network for voice, video, and data transmission.

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SMDS (Switched Multimegabit Data Service)

  • High-speed data transmission service

  • Speeds from 1.544 Mbps to 44.736 Mbps

  • Used for transmitting large data volumes over WANs

  • Key Features:

    • High-speed data transmission (up to T3 speeds)

    • Connects LANs over WAN for data replication, file transfer, multimedia streaming

    • Replaced by technologies like MPLS

ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode)

  • High-speed networking technology

  • Uses fixed-size cells for data transmission

  • Provides high bandwidth and low latency

  • Key Features:

    • Data transfer rates up to 622 Mbps and beyond

    • Supports voice, video, and data services with Quality of Service

    • Used in telecommunications networks, backbone networks, and high-performance computing

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FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface)

  • High-speed LAN technology using fiber-optic cables

  • Provides high reliability and fault tolerance

  • Data rates up to 100 Mbps (DAS) or 200 Mbps (SAS)

  • Ring topology for fault tolerance

  • Commonly used in mission-critical environments and backbone networks

Network Connectors

  • RJ45 and RJ11 for different purposes

  • ST/SC/LC connectors for fiber-optic networking

  • MT-RJ for high-density fiber-optic installations

  • USB connectors for various peripherals and devices

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Network Connectors (cont.)

  • RJ45 for Ethernet, RJ11 for telephones

  • ST uses twist lock, SC uses push-pull, LC has latch mechanism

  • MT-RJ combines two fibers into a single connector

  • USB Type-A, Type-B, and Type-C for different devices

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Network Tools

  • Network Monitoring Tools like Wireshark, Nagios

  • Ping and Traceroute for network connectivity

  • Network Protocol Analyzers for packet analysis

  • Command-Line Tools for diagnostics and troubleshooting

  • Network Testing Tools for performance measurement

  • Remote Access and Management Tools for device management

  • Documentation and Configuration Management for network documentation

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Network Tools (cont.)

  • Ping measures round-trip time

  • Traceroute displays network path

  • Protocol Analyzers capture and decode packets

  • Command-Line Tools display network configuration

  • Network Testing Tools measure bandwidth and latency

  • Remote Access Tools manage devices remotely

  • Documentation Management maintains network documentation

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Network Operating Systems

  • Windows NT for user-friendly interface and centralized management

  • Linux for open-source flexibility and stability

  • Linux known for robust security features and cost-effectiveness

Tools, Functions, and Components of Major Operating Systems

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  • UNIX

    • Supports many networking protocols for diverse environments.

    • Highly scalable for large-scale networks with multiple users and devices.

    • Multi-user environment with concurrent access, security, and stability.

    • Powerful command-line interface for system administration.

    • High customization and flexibility for tailoring to specific network needs.

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  • Windows OS

    • Describes major system files like NTOSKRNL.EXE, HAL.DLL, WINLOAD.EXE, NTDLL.DLL, KERNEL32.DLL.

  • macOS

    • Highlights components like Mach Kernel, launchd, System.framework, IOKit.framework, CoreServices.framework, and BSD subsystem.

  • Linux

    • Discusses the Linux Kernel (vmlinuz) and directories like /etc, /bin, /sbin, /usr/bin, /usr/sbin, /lib, /lib64.

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  • Unix (e.g., FreeBSD, OpenBSD, Solaris)

    • Mentions the Kernel, /etc, /bin, /sbin, /usr/bin, /usr/sbin, /lib, /lib64 directories.

  • **Identifies the init/systemd, GNU C Library (glibc), and X Window System (X11) for Linux.

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  • Windows OS - System Utilities

    • Control Panel, Settings app, and Task Manager functionalities.

  • Windows OS - System Administrative Tools

    • Computer Management, Local Group Policy Editor.

  • Windows OS - File-Structure Tools

    • File Explorer, Command Prompt, and PowerShell.

  • Windows OS - Hardware-Management Tools

    • Device Manager, Disk Management.

  • macOS - System Utilities

    • System Preferences, Activity Monitor.

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  • macOS - System Administrative Tools

    • Terminal, Disk Utility.

  • macOS - File-Structure Tools

    • Finder, Terminal.

  • macOS - Hardware-Management Tools

    • System Information, Disk Utility.

  • Linux - System Utilities

    • Settings Manager, System Monitor.

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  • Linux - System Administrative Tools

    • Terminal commands for system administration.

  • Linux - File-Structure Tools

    • File manager and Terminal commands.

  • Linux - Hardware-Management Tools

    • Tools for system information and disk management.

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  • Linux - System Administrative Tools

    • Terminal commands for system administration.

  • Linux - File-Structure Tools

    • File manager and Terminal commands.

  • Linux - Hardware-Management Tools

    • Tools for system information and disk management.

Tools, Diagnostic Procedures, and Troubleshooting Techniques

  • Identify tools, diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting techniques for operating systems.

System Diagnostic Tools

  • Windows

    • Event Viewer: Analyze system and application logs for errors, warnings, and critical events.

    • Reliability Monitor: Provides a timeline of system events like crashes and software installations.

    • Performance Monitor: Monitors system performance metrics such as CPU and memory usage.

  • macOS

    • Console: View system logs and application logs to identify errors.

    • Activity Monitor: Monitor system resource usage and running processes.

    • Disk Utility: Check disk health and manage disk partitions.

  • Linux

    • System Log Viewer: View system logs to troubleshoot errors.

    • Top, Htop: Monitor system resource usage and processes.

    • Fsck: Check and repair filesystem errors.

Diagnostic Procedures

  • Identify Symptoms

    • Determine specific issues like slow performance or error messages.

  • Isolate the Problem

    • Differentiate between hardware and software issues.

  • Check System Resources

    • Monitor CPU, memory, disk, and network usage.

  • Review Error Messages

    • Analyze logs and alerts to find the root cause.

Troubleshooting Techniques

  • Restart the System

  • Check for Updates

  • Uninstall Problematic Software

  • Boot into Safe Mode

  • Use System Restore (Windows)

  • Perform Clean Boot (Windows)

  • Check Disk Integrity

  • Scan for Malware

Network Operating System Setup

  • Network Protocols

    • TCP/IP Protocol Suite

    • Subnetting

    • Default Gateway

    • DNS Configuration

  • Network Clients

    • Windows Clients: Configure TCP/IP settings, join domain, install network services.

    • Linux Clients: Configure network interfaces, join domain, install services.

  • Network Adapters and Interfaces

    • Physical and Virtual Network Adapters

    • Interface Configuration

    • Network Bonding/Teaming

Additional Considerations

  • Network Security

  • Quality of Service (QoS)

  • Monitoring and Management

Major Considerations for Installing a Network Operating System

  • Hardware Compatibility

  • Network Infrastructure

  • Software Compatibility

  • Storage Configuration

  • Security Considerations

Network Security Measures

  • Implement strong security measures like firewalls, IDS/IPS, ACLs, and encryption protocols.

    • Use SSL/TLS for data protection.

  • Configure user authentication, authorization, and accounting mechanisms for secure access.

  • Enable secure remote access solutions such as VPN and SSH.

  • Plan user and group management policies for access permissions based on roles.

  • Develop a backup and recovery strategy for critical network components.

  • Test backup procedures regularly and document recovery processes.

Performance Optimization and Scalability

  • Optimize network performance by tuning settings and monitoring metrics.

  • Consider scalability requirements for future growth in network capacity and services.

  • Design network architecture to accommodate scalability without compromising security.

Documentation, Training, and Network Security

  • Document network configurations, security policies, and installation procedures.

  • Provide training for network administrators, IT staff, and end-users.

  • Identify security requirements, develop, and implement a network security plan.

  • Understand physical and logical security issues and solutions.

Equipment for Network Access and OSI Model Functionality

  • Explain functions of network communications equipment and network adapters.

  • Install necessary hardware and software for a basic network installation.

  • Understand OSI model functionality and the primary function of each layer.

Network Topologies, Connectivity, and Network Components

  • Explain network topologies, advantages, and disadvantages.

  • Identify wireless network media types and network cabling.

  • Install and configure network cards and connectivity methods.

  • Understand the operation of network components like hubs, switches, and routers.

Network Components and Connectivity

  • Differentiate between switches and hubs in network segmentation.

  • Use DHCP for easier administration of IP addresses.

  • Utilize switches for both Layer 2 and Layer 3 services in the OSI model.

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  • Load balancer sends packets to machines behind a single IP address

    • Modern load-balancing routers use different rules for routing traffic

  • "A" record in DNS server translates human names to IP addresses

  • Web proxy's common use is web cache and content filtering in corporate environments

  • Network segmentation advantages include boosting performance

  • Switches create separate collision domains and a single broadcast domain

  • Routers do not forward broadcast or multicast packets by default

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  • DNS server uses pointer and A records

  • Proxy server limits access to non-work related sites and controls traffic

  • Windows NT was developed from the VMS platform

  • Novell NetWare is a network operating system

  • Protocol is the language for networked computers

  • Routers do not forward broadcast or multicast packets by default

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  • Novell developed IPX for its network operating system

  • Disk Duplexing involves using multiple disk controllers

  • OSI model does not include Data Transmission layer

  • RJ-45 is not a common networking medium

  • Full Duplex allows data to travel in both directions on a cable

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  • Peer-to-Peer network has no dedicated server

  • Gateway is used to translate between networks

  • Repeater extends signal distance in networking

  • DMA enables direct device access to memory without CPU intervention

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  • EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

  • Switching Hub enables full bandwidth for each device

  • Routing table uses the route with fewest hops

  • Dynamic routers can be configured with static routes

  • Default gateway must be specified for network communication

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  • LMHOSTS file resolves NetBIOS names

  • ARP translates IP address to MAC address

  • Netstat displays TCP/IP protocol and interface statistics

  • FTP facilitates file transfers between hosts

  • Ping verifies network connectivity of a remote host

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  • NSLOOKUP verifies DNS database

  • Point-to-Point Protocol includes network control and link control protocols

  • Firewall provides secure communication between internal and public networks

  • EINS resolves Windows computer names to TCP/IP addresses

  • Replication service updates network operating systems

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  • Service Packs update network operating systems

  • InoculateT scans local or mapped network drives

  • Knowledge Base contains fixes, Resource Kit contains educational material

  • Time domain reflectometer determines cable breaks

  • MSBACKU.EXE is the executable for Microsoft Backup for DOS

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  • PGP verifies e-mail sender authenticity and encrypts data

  • Proxy Server acts as intermediary between client and server

  • 802.11n specifies a net bit rate of 6000 Mbit/s

  • ipconfig /registerdns forces DNS registration from command prompt

  • OS/2 was a joint venture between IBM and Microsoft

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  • Appletalk is a protocol suite historically used by Macintosh

  • Terminal Adapter is a specialized gateway for ISDN

  • WINS is Microsoft's implementation for NetBIOS Name Service

  • NetBIOS Host Files map host names to IP addresses

  • AppleTalk is a suite of networking protocols developed by Apple Inc.

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  • TCP/IP is a protocol for communication between computers

  • IPX/SPX are networking protocols used on Novell NetWare

  • NETBEUI is a network protocol

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  • NetBIOS Extended User Interface allows communication within a local area network

  • IEEE is a global association for technology development

  • ISO is an international standard-setting body

  • NIC is a network interface card.

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  • Network Interface Card (NIC)

    • Contains electronic circuitry for wired or wireless communication

  • MAC Media Access Control

    • Responsible for data packet transmission to/from NIC and shared channels

  • Shielding

    • Reduces interference to network signals

  • Crosstalk

    • Occurs in microcircuits in computers, audio equipment, and network circuits

  • Attenuation

    • Refers to signal strength reduction

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  • Broadband

    • High-speed, always-on internet faster than dial-up

  • ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network

    • Standards for digital transmission of voice, video, data

  • SMDS Switched Multimegabit Data Service

    • Public, packet-switched service for data exchange

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  • ATM Asynchronous Transfer Mode

    • Uses time-division multiplexing for data encoding

  • RJ45 & RJ11

    • RJ11 for two lines, RJ45 for computer networking

  • ST Straight Tip Connector

    • Fiber-optic connector with bayonet plug

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  • SC Standard Connector

    • Fiber-optic connector with push-pull latching

  • LC Lucent Connector

    • Miniaturized version of SC connector

  • MT-RJ

    • Popular fiber-optic connector for small devices

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  • USB Universal Serial Bus

    • Interface for device communication with PCs

  • Modems

    • Transmit data over telephone or cable lines

  • DSL/CSU Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit

    • Connects data terminal equipment to digital circuits

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  • Bridge

    • Connects LANs using the same protocol

  • Switch

    • Connects devices on a network using packet switching

  • RAID Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks

    • Uses multiple disks for fault tolerance and performance

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  • Blades

    • Blade servers in enclosures for services like power and networking

  • SMP Symmetric Multiprocessing

    • Multiple processors connected to shared memory

  • SCSI

    • Parallel interface standards for peripherals

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  • Wi-Fi

    • Wireless networking technology using radio waves

  • WiMax Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access

    • Advances IEEE 802.16 standards for BWA networks

  • GSM Global System for Mobile Communications

    • Standard for second-generation digital cellular networks

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  • **

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