Network and Server Administration Fundamentals

This unit builds foundational skills for administering networked systems, covering server and client configuration, resource sharing, and core network components (switches, IP addressing, wireless). Students will also learn practical strategies for backup, business continuity, cloud/hybrid integration, VPNs, security tools, and user training to maintain reliable, secure environments.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze network components, IP addressing schemes, and wireless standards to identify single points of failure and recommend redundancy or connectivity improvements
• Configure server roles, virtual disks, shared folders, user accounts, and group policy settings (including Mac domain join and client network settings) to centralize resource management
• Develop and document a backup and business continuity plan that incorporates cloud/hybrid options, VPNs, remote access, and secondary internet connectivity for disaster recovery
• Implement and evaluate security and management controls—including antivirus/antispam, device enrollment, identity integration, remote desktop policies, and end-user training—to reduce risk and enforce safe computing practices