Module 7: Networking Devices
An Overview of Modern Networking
1 Purpose
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to computer networking, starting with the physical devices and media, moving up to the logical IP addressing and segmentation that organizes traffic, exploring the critical background services that make networks function, and finally equipping you with the skills to troubleshoot common connectivity problems.
2 What You’ll Learn
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Identify core networking devices and their roles within the OSI model.
- Differentiate between various types of copper and fiber optic cabling.
- Explain how IP addresses, subnet masks, and VLANs are used to segment networks.
- Describe the function of essential network services like DHCP, DNS, and NAT.
- Follow a systematic process to troubleshoot common network connectivity issues using command-line tools.
This module maps to the following program and course learning outcomes:
- Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
- 3. Apply terminology and numeric or system concepts: This module is foundational for networking, covering the specific terminology for hardware, protocols, and services.
- 6. Maintain environment: The troubleshooting section is a direct application of network maintenance and problem resolution.
- Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs):
- 1. Identify hardware and basic network components: This module focuses on identifying, selecting, and understanding the function of various networking devices and media.
- 3. Troubleshoot hardware and basic network components: This module provides a practical framework for diagnosing and resolving network-related issues.
This module will help you develop the following skills and knowledge, which align with the O*NET SOC Code 15-1232.00 for Computer User Support Specialists.
| Learning Objective | O*NET KSAs | Technologies Used |
|---|---|---|
| Identify network hardware and its function. | Knowledge: Telecommunications, Computers & Electronics Abilities: Information Ordering |
Switch, Router, NIC |
| Explain logical network segmentation. | Knowledge: Telecommunications Skills: Systems Analysis, Critical Thinking |
IP Addressing, VLANs |
| Troubleshoot common network connectivity issues. | Knowledge: Telecommunications Skills: Troubleshooting Abilities: Problem Sensitivity |
ping, ipconfig, tracert |
3 Module Content
This module is divided into the following sections, which build upon one another from physical hardware to logical services and practical troubleshooting:
Foundations of Modern Networking Devices: An introduction to the essential physical networking components, their roles in a network, and how they map to the layers of the OSI model.
Connecting the Network: An exploration of the physical media used to connect network devices, including twisted pair and fiber optic cables, their connectors, and the fundamentals of wireless networking.
Routing and Network Segmentation: An exploration of how networks are logically divided for efficiency and security using IP addressing, subnet masks, and Virtual LANs (VLANs).
Core Network Services: An overview of the essential background services that make networks easy to use, including automatic IP configuration (DHCP), name resolution (DNS), and private-to-public address translation (NAT).
Troubleshooting Network Connectivity: A practical guide to diagnosing and resolving common network problems, from physical connection issues to logical configuration errors, using standard command-line tools.