Networking Essentials

Course Description

Concepts for peer-to-peer and server-based network:International Organization for Standardization-Open Systems Interconnection (ISO-OSI) reference model, industry standards, troubleshooting, performance monitoring, and optimization. IST 226 Networking Essentials (3) IST 226 covers basic networking concepts such as network types, cable types, wireless technologies, and network adapters. It discusses network models, including the ISO-OSI reference model and all industry standard network architectures. Both peer-to-peer and server-based commercial network operating systems are introduced with hands-on laboratory experience provided. Basic network administration issues are introduced. Internetworking/enterprise networking devices and architectures are also covered, as are network troubleshooting, performance monitoring, and optimization. IST 226 is one of four courses required for the Networking Option in the Associate degree of Information Sciences and Technology (IST).Achievement of knowledge objectives will be evaluated by examinations. Ability to perform hands-on network administration and support activities will be evaluated by grading appropriate group and individual hands-on laboratory projects, scenarios, and case studies.Upon completion of this course, the students will be able to understand both cabled and wireless media types and be able to select appropriate media. The student will also understand the ISO-OSI and IEEE models and other industry standards, the roles of drivers and protocols and network architectures. The student will have experience with the installation, configuration and administration of basic server-based networking, as well as, an understanding of wide area/enterprise networking, performance monitoring and network troubleshooting. Most important, the student will learn how to foster communications, interpersonal, and group interaction skills through appropriate collaborative and active learning projects, laboratory exercises, and related experiences.The majoriety of campuses offering the Associate degree in Information Sciences and Technology will have 20-30 students enrolled in the course. The course will be offered one semester each academic year.