GENBN401 - Basics of Networking-Summary
GENBN401 - Basics of Networking-Summary
Network Concepts:
A network is a system of interconnected devices (computers, printers, etc.) that
share resources.
Networks are classified based on size (LAN, WAN, PAN), purpose (data sharing,
communication), and architecture (client-server, peer-to-peer).
Benefits of Networks: Communication, resource sharing, centralized data
management, cost efficiency.
Disadvantages: Security risks, complexity, maintenance costs, bandwidth
limitations.
Applications: Telecommunications, healthcare, education, financial services,
entertainment.
Network Technologies:
Topologies: Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh, Tree.
Components: End devices (computers, printers), networking hardware (routers,
switches), infrastructure (cables, connectors), and software (protocols like
TCP/IP).
Cable Trunking:
Trunking organizes and protects cables. Materials include plastic, wood, and
stainless steel.
Importance: Organization, protection, safety, and ease of maintenance.
Cable Termination:
Attaching connectors to cables (e.g., RJ45 for Ethernet cables).
Types of cables: Twisted pair, fiber-optic, coaxial.
Network Design:
Creating a detailed plan for the physical and logical layout of the network.
Ensures efficient and secure network operation.
IP Address Basics:
An IP address is a unique identifier for devices on a network.
Types: Private (used within a network), Public (used on the internet), Static
(fixed), Dynamic (assigned by DHCP), Automatic (APIPA).
Versions: IPv4 (32-bit) and IPv6 (128-bit).
Classes: Class A (large networks), Class B (medium networks), Class C (small
networks), Class D (multicast), Class E (reserved).
Subnetting:
Dividing a network into smaller subnets to improve efficiency and security.
Subnet Mask: Determines the network and host portions of an IP address (e.g.,
255.255.255.0).
Types: Fixed-Length Subnet Mask (FLSM) and Variable-Length Subnet Mask
(VLSM).
Binary System: Used to calculate subnet masks and network addresses.
Logical Operators: AND (to find network address), OR (to find broadcast
address).
Static IP Assignment:
Manually assigning a fixed IP address to a device.
Used for servers, printers, and network devices.
Dynamic IP Assignment:
Automatically assigning IP addresses using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration
Protocol).
Used for client devices like computers and phones.
Automatic IP Assignment:
Devices assign themselves an IP address (e.g., APIPA) when DHCP is
unavailable.
2.4 Configuration of Basic Network Devices
Key Configurations:
Hostname: Assigning a unique name to a device (e.g., Router1).
Banner Message: Displaying a message when users log in (e.g., "Unauthorized
access prohibited").
Passwords: Securing access to devices (console, enable, VTY passwords).
Saving Configurations: Using commands like write memory or copy running-
config startup-config.
Reloading Devices: Restarting devices to apply configurations.
Physical Testing:
Checking cables, connectors, and hardware for faults.
Unit Testing:
o Testing individual devices (e.g., routers, switches) to ensure they function
correctly.
Integration Testing:
Testing the entire network to ensure all devices communicate effectively.
Hardware Maintenance:
Regular cleaning of devices (dust removal, port cleaning).
Checking environmental conditions (temperature, humidity).
Software Maintenance:
Updating firmware and software (e.g., security patches).
Changing network device credentials regularly.
Monitoring network performance using tools.
Troubleshooting Process:
1. Identify the problem.
2. Define the scope of the issue.
3. Establish a theory of probable cause.
4. Test the theory and implement a solution.
5. Verify the solution and document the process.
Common Problems:
Hardware failures (e.g., faulty cables, switches).
Software issues (e.g., outdated firmware, misconfigurations).
Connectivity problems (e.g., IP conflicts, DNS issues).