Course Title: Introduction to Computer Networking

Course Description:

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to computer networking, covering the fundamental concepts, technologies, and protocols essential for designing, implementing, and managing modern networks. Ideal for beginners and those seeking to expand their IT skills, this course provides the foundational knowledge required to understand how computer networks operate and how to troubleshoot common networking issues.

Course Objectives:

• Understand the basic concepts and terminology of computer networking.
• Learn the OSI and TCP/IP models and their respective layers.
• Gain proficiency in configuring and managing network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
• Develop skills in IP addressing, subnetting, and network addressing translation (NAT).
• Explore various networking protocols, including TCP, UDP, HTTP, and DNS.
• Understand wireless networking and network security principles.
• Learn to design and implement local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
• Develop troubleshooting techniques for common network problems.
• Apply networking skills in practical, real-world scenarios.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Networking:
   • Overview of computer networks and their importance
   • Key concepts and terminology
   • Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
2. Networking Models:
   • OSI model: layers and functions
   • TCP/IP model: layers and functions
   • Comparison between OSI and TCP/IP models
3. Network Devices:
   • Overview of network devices (routers, switches, hubs, access points)
   • Functions and configurations of each device
   • Introduction to firewalls and network security appliances
4. IP Addressing and Subnetting:
   • Understanding IPv4 and IPv6 addressing
   • Public vs. private IP addresses
   • Subnetting and subnet masks
   • Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM)
5. Networking Protocols:
   • Transport layer protocols (TCP, UDP)
   • Application layer protocols (HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, DNS)
   • Network layer protocols (IP, ICMP, ARP)
6. Wireless Networking:
   • Introduction to wireless networking concepts
   • Wi-Fi standards and security (WPA, WPA2, WPA3)
   • Configuring and managing wireless networks
7. Network Security:
   • Basic principles of network security
   • Common threats and vulnerabilities
   • Security measures and best practices (firewalls, encryption, VPNs)
8. Designing and Implementing Networks:
   • Planning and designing LANs and WANs
   • Network topology and architecture
   • Configuring network devices and cabling
   • Introduction to virtual networks and VLANs
9. Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
   • Common network issues and troubleshooting steps
   • Tools for network troubleshooting (ping, traceroute, Wireshark)
   • Network monitoring and management
10. Capstone Project:
    • Designing and implementing a small-scale network
    • Configuring devices and ensuring connectivity
    • Troubleshooting and resolving network issues
    • Documenting the network design and configuration

Course Duration:

• 10 weeks, with weekly sessions comprising lectures, hands-on exercises, and project work.

Assessment and Certification:

• Regular quizzes and assignments to reinforce learning
• Final project demonstrating practical application of course concepts
• Certificate of completion awarded to participants who successfully complete the course

Prerequisites:

• Basic understanding of computer concepts is recommended. A willingness to learn and explore new technologies is essential.

By the end of this course, you will have a solid foundation in computer networking, enabling you to design, implement, and manage networks effectively, and paving the way for more advanced studies or professional certifications in networking.