Networking Fundamentals

Did you know, nearly 85% of IT support roles require a good understanding of networking concepts? IT Professionals who are new to the industry need a strong foundational understanding of the fundamentals before moving on towards more challenging technology certifications. This book covers everything you need to know about understanding network infrastructures, hardware, protocols, and services. Written to the Networking Fundamentals MTA Certification, it is considered to be a recommended entry point into IT certification. This book covers the basics of networking. Each chapter closes with a quiz to make sure you can practice exam questions and test your knowledge before moving to the next section. We start by discussing LAN and WAN topologies, including examining area networks, devices and data transfer. There are sections dedicated to the following: Understanding wired and wireless networks, by recognizing wired networks and different media types. Identifying and working with fiber optic and twisted pair cables. Understanding internet protocol, by working and categorizing IPv4 Addresses. Working with and understanding networking services and area networks, by setting up common networking services and understanding routing. Defining network infrastructures and network security, by understanding networks outside of the LAN, defining internet, intranets, and extranets. We will also create a VPN using the create a VPN connection Wizard as well as Windows 10 settings. IT Professionals looking to understand more about networking will gain the knowledge to create a network diagram and explain basic networking concepts without any problems. Thanks to some troubleshooting tools and tips it will be easier to apply the skills in real world situations and feel confident when taking the certification.

A clear and concise resource on Windows networking, perfect for IT beginners

Did you know that nearly 85% of IT support roles require a good understanding of networking concepts? If you are looking to advance your IT career, you will need a foundational understanding of Windows networking. Network Fundamentals covers everything you need to know about network infrastructures, hardware, protocols, and services. You will learn everything you need to gain the highly in-demand Networking Fundamentals MTA Certification. This entry-level credential could be your first step into a rewarding, stable and lucrative IT career.

This new Sybex guide covers the basics of networking starting from the “ground level,” so no previous IT knowledge is required. Each chapter features approachable discussion of the latest networking technologies and concepts, closing with a quiz so you can test your knowledge before moving to the next section. Even if you are brand new to computers, Network Fundamentals will guide you to confidence and mastery.

• Understand wired and wireless networks in every detail
• Learn everything you need to attain the Networking Fundamentals MTA Certification
• Test your knowledge with end-of-chapter quiz questions
• Understand internet protocol (IP) and categorize IPv4 addresses
• Work with networking services and area networks
• Define network infrastructures and network security, including intranets, extranets, and VPNs

Beginning and established IT professionals looking to understand more about networking will gain the knowledge to create a network diagram and confidently explain basic networking concepts. Thanks to the features in this book, you will be able to apply your new networking skills in real world situations and feel confident when taking the certification test.

Cover 1 Networking Fundamentals 2 Copyright 3 Dedication 4 Acknowledgements 6 About the Author 8 Contents 10 Introduction 16 1 Understanding Local Area Networking 18 2 Defining Networks with the OSI Model 60 3 Understanding Wired and Wireless Networks 92 4 Understanding Internet Protocol 120 5 Implementing TCP/IP in the Command Line 164 6 Working with Networking Services 216 7 Understanding Wide Area Networks 248 8 Defining Network Infrastructures and Network Security 276 Appendix Answer Key 306 Index 322 Comprehensive Online Learning Environment 336 A clear and concise resource on Windows networking, perfect for IT beginners, this practical guide covers everything you need to know about network infrastructures, hardware, protocols, and services. -- Edited summary from book