CNSA 111: Introduction to Networking    (3 Credits)

Networking refers to connecting computers together to share computing resources and to perform work. Networking is a complex task, and as with any complex problem, the easiest way to understand and manage a complex task is to break it down into smaller, simpler tasks. That’s what the OSI model does for networking, and for that reason the OSI model and network topologies are covered in detail in this course.

 

Computers are most commonly networked together via Ethernet LANs, and this course will explore Ethernet LANs in detail. Ethernet topologies, frame types, collision domains, broadcast domains and evolution from the original CSMA/CD scheme is explored and then contrasted to today’s modern Ethernet switching LANs. Students design a switched Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN by researching equipment features and pricing from Internetworking vendors.

 

Many local area networks are connected to other local area networks across significant distances. Each network and device on a network needs a network identifier and a host identifier. These identifiers are commonly called IP addresses, and in this course IP addressing and IP subnetting are covered in extreme detail. Students will learn how a subnet mask defines the network portion and host portion of an IP address, how to subnet a class A, B or C network, and what registered and unregistered IP address space is. This course can be used as preparation for industry certification exams COMPTIA Network+ and Cisco’s CCNA exam though it is not an official exam preparation course. Prerequisite: CNSA 107

 

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