Foundations of Networking and Systems

This unit introduces core networking concepts, common infrastructure components, and the basic administration tasks needed to plan and build small-to-medium networks. Students will explore devices (switches, routers, wireless APs), addressing and name services (DHCP, DNS, ARP, binary), server and virtualization fundamentals, and introductory security, cloud, and productivity services to prepare for deeper configuration and management work in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze network requirements and design a basic small-business topology that specifies switches, routers, cabling, wireless access points, and Internet connectivity
• Apply addressing and name-resolution concepts (binary, DHCP, DNS, ARP) and use command-line and GUI tools on Windows, macOS, and Linux to configure and troubleshoot network connections
• Demonstrate planning for server deployments by evaluating server roles, virtualization options (Hyper-V, vSphere), disk and backup needs, and cloud service choices (Office 365, Exchange Online, Teams)
• Evaluate basic security and administration controls by implementing user accounts, permissions, group policy concepts, and fundamental data protection and backup practices