Network Fundamentals

Goal:

Build practical knowledge of how computer networks operate, how to configure them, and how to secure them.

Module 1 – Introduction to Networking (4 hrs)

• What is a network?
• Network types (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
• Network topologies and devices (router, switch, AP, firewall)
• Hands-on: Identify and map network components

Module 2 – Network Models & Data Flow (4 hrs)

• OSI and TCP/IP models
• Encapsulation and packet flow
• Ports, protocols, and services (HTTP, FTP, DNS, etc.)
• Lab: Examine packets using Wireshark

Module 3 – IP Addressing and Subnetting (4 hrs)

• IPv4 vs IPv6
• Subnet masks and CIDR notation
• Private vs public IPs
• Lab: Subnetting and configuring IP addresses

Module 4 – Switching and VLANs (4 hrs)

• MAC addressing and ARP
• Switch operation and VLAN concepts
• Trunking and inter-VLAN routing
• Lab: Configure VLANs on a managed switch

Module 5 – Routing Fundamentals (4 hrs)

• Default gateway and static routing
• Intro to dynamic routing (RIP, OSPF concepts)
• Routing tables and path selection
• Lab: Configure routers using static routes

Module 6 – Wireless Networking (4 hrs)

• Wi-Fi standards (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
• SSIDs, channels, and frequency bands
• Wireless security (WPA3, encryption methods)
• Lab: Configure and secure a Wi-Fi network

Module 7 – Network Security & Troubleshooting (4 hrs)

• Firewalls, NAT, VPNs, ACLs
• Common network attacks (spoofing, sniffing, DoS)
• Troubleshooting tools: ping, tracert, nslookup, netstat
• Lab: Diagnose connectivity and DNS issues

•  Capstone Project: Design and configure a small business network (LAN, VLAN, DHCP, Wi-Fi, security)