Technician: Networking School

Ideal for both beginners and individuals seeking to formalise and increase their IP (Internet Protocol) networking knowledge, this course will provide attendees with an understanding of IP. With the vast majority of subsystems now having the ability to be converged over an IP network, this is arguably the most important topic to ensure attendees have a solid foundation in.

Topics covered include:

• Understanding the 7 layer OSI Model and how it relates to networking (essential learning)
• Applying the OSI model to residential network structure and setup
• Recognising and understanding basic network hardware
• IP Addressing - using the right addresses for the right job
• Basic network troubleshooting
• Common network protocols including: TCP, UDP, IP, DHCP, DNS, and NAT
• Selecting and configuring consumer routers
• Creating system documentation for IP networks

This course compare wireless to other physical layer types and explores the behaviours of RF considering data speed, frequency, and coverage. Attendees will learn the importance and opportunities of wireless security, making sure customer networks are protected, and how to expand a wireless network to cover larger areas.

Topics covered include:

• Understanding Wireless as a physical media
• Radio Frequency transmission as part of the Electromagnetic spectrum
• Controlling and maximising wireless coverage using different Antenna types
• Protecting wireless networks with wireless security
• Expanding wireless networks with additional access points
• Controlling wireless networks with management systems

Attendees who have completed the Residential Networking course are now ideally placed to study this more advanced course which builds upon the knowledge and skills previously gained.

Once the basics of IP Networking are understood (hint: Can you confidently explain layers 1-3 of the OSI model?), this course will deliver attendees the knowledge and skills required to start building more complex networks.

Topics covered include:

• File sharing between IP connected devices
• Remote access with Dynamic DNS
• The Client - Server model
• 'Ports' and 'Services'
• Access to LAN devices from the WAN via Port Forwarding
• Securing external access using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks)
• Understanding basic subnets
• Dividing Networks using vLANs (Virtual LANs)

Course Overview

The IP network is the backbone of every modern custom installation and the number of connected devices is ever growing. With this in mind, it is now crucial that the fundamental design of any home network is robust and well conceived. It is no longer good enough to just ‘plug it in to any available socket’ come install time!

This course explores all aspects of modern network topology including traffic flow, infrastructure planning, connectivity options and planned redundancy. During the session, students will be work in groups to develop a robust network that will be stable for an initial and developing list   of connected host devices. Wired and wireless connectivity will be included as well as host devices from the AV, computing and mobile world.

Both wired and wireless networks will be considered with consideration for retro-fit and new build properties. Additional subject matter includes; power planning, equipment location and rack design, testing strategies, and upgradability.

Topics Included

• Relevant network topologies and their applications in an IP network
• How to evaluate network need by analysing occupant behaviours
• Predicting likely bandwidth needs for individual and groups of host devices
• Designing a wired network that meets the present and probable future needs of specific client
• Proposing a wireless network that meets the needs of likely host devices

Buy for £179 OR bolt-on to the school for £120