NETWORKING THEORY
Prepared by Kwagala Peter (MSc. CS)
Module 1 – Networking Fundamentals
• Module Introduction and Learning Objectives
Computer Networks: Networking Hardware Devices
1. Introduction to Network Devices
Network devices, also known as networking hardware, are physical devices that enable
communication and interaction on a computer network. These devices include cables, servers,
desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The focus will be on
devices that connect or route, such as hubs, switches, routers, bridges, and gateways.
2. Network Devices and Their Functions
Network Device Function Significance
Server A powerful computer that stores Centralizes data storage and
files and applications, accessible by application access. Controls the level
other computers (clients). of access that clients have.
Client A node that accesses the network Enables users to access shared
through a server. resources on a network.
Node Any device that can send, receive, Key for network communication and
or create information on a network. resource sharing.
Hub Connects multiple devices and Simplest form of connecting devices
broadcasts data to all devices but inefficient, as data is sent to all
except the sender. devices.
Switch Similar to a hub but forwards data More efficient than a hub, as it
only to the intended recipient based reduces network traffic by targeting
on MAC addresses. the correct device.
Router Interconnects different networks Manages traffic between networks
and routes data packets to their and allows multiple devices to use
destination IP addresses. the same internet connection.
Modem Converts data into a format suitable Enables internet connectivity by
for transmission over a network. modulating and demodulating data.
Bridge Joins two separate networks to Expands the range of a network and
allow communication as a single reduces congestion by segmenting
network. traffic.
Gateway Allows data to flow from one Uses multiple protocols to connect
network to another, e.g., from a networks and manage
local network to the internet. communication.
Repeater Receives and retransmits signals to Extends the range of wireless
(Extender) extend network coverage. networks, especially in obstructed
areas.
Wireless Access Allows Wi-Fi devices to connect to Provides wireless connectivity to a
Point (WAP) a wired network. wired network, enabling internet
access for wireless devices.
Network Connects devices to a network, Essential for devices to send and
Interface Card either wired or wirelessly. receive network data.
(NIC)
Firewall Monitors and controls incoming Protects networks from unauthorized
and outgoing network traffic based access and malicious activities.
on security rules.
Proxy Server Acts as an intermediary between Hides IP addresses, saves bandwidth,
the local network and the internet and controls access.
to enhance security.
Intrusion Monitors and reports suspicious or Helps identify potential security
Detection malicious network activity. threats.
System (IDS)
Intrusion Inspects and takes action to prevent Proactively blocks harmful activities
Prevention malicious network traffic based on before they can compromise the
System (IPS) security rules. network.
3. Types of Networks
• Client-Server Networks: Common in businesses, where servers store files and
applications for clients to access. These networks ensure that files are up-to-date and easily
accessible from a central location.
Examples: File transfer protocol sites (FTP), web servers, web browsers.
• Peer-to-Peer Networks: Common in homes and on the internet, where devices can share
resources and information directly without a server.
Examples: File sharing sites, discussion forums, media streaming, and Voice over
IP (VOIP) services.
4. Key Points
• Network Devices: Range from hubs, switches, routers, bridges, gateways, and servers, all
enabling communication and managing data flow across networks.
• Routers and Modems: Facilitate data transmission and conversion to ensure that data
reaches its destination across networks.
• Security Measures: Firewalls, proxy servers, IDS, and IPS help keep networks secure and
prevent unauthorized access or malicious activity.
Models, Standards, Protocols, and Ports
After going through this content, you will be able to:
• Explain networking models and standards
• List the role of each protocol type
• Define common ports
Networking Models
A networking model describes the architecture, components, and design used to establish
communication between the source and destination systems. Data packets follow the protocols of
network models. There are two main types of networking models:
OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model
The OSI Model is a conceptual framework used to describe the functions of a networking system.
Data flows across these layers when communicating over a network.
Layer Function
Application Users and applications interact directly with the software application.
Presentation Ensures that data is in a usable format and is where data encryption occurs.
Session Controls the flow of information between computers, including authentication
and reconnections.
Transport Manages the delivery and error checking of data packets. Data is commonly
transported using Transmission Control Protocol (TCP).
Network Responsible for interpreting addresses and directing the path the data will take.
Data Link Defines the format of data on the network and corrects errors that may have
happened at the physical layer.
Physical Transmits raw, unstructured data over a physical medium.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) Model
The TCP/IP Model is a set of standards that allow computers to communicate on a network. It is
based on the OSI model but functions slightly differently. It travels through fewer layers, but the
background protocols are the same.
Networking Standards
Networking standards define the rules for data communications, ensuring the interoperability of
networking technologies and processes. These standards can be classified into two types:
Type Description Examples
De Jure (Formal) Developed by official industry or government bodies. HTTP, HTML, IP,
Standards Includes publicly available documentation. Ethernet (802.3d)
DeFacto (Informal) Accepted in practice but have not undergone formal Microsoft Windows,
Standards processes for consensus. QWERTY keyboard
Some key organizations responsible for creating network standards include:
• ISO (International Standards Organization): Established the OSI reference networking
model.
• ITU (International Telecommunication Union): Standardized international telecom and
radio frequency use.
• DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency): Established the TCP/IP
protocol suite.
• IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers): Established IEEE 802
standards.
• W3C (World Wide Web Consortium): Established the WWW standard.
• IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force): Maintains the TCP/IP protocol suites and
developed the RFC standard.
Network Protocols
A network protocol is a set of rules that determine how data is transmitted between different
devices in the same network. Network protocols perform one of three primary actions: security,
communication, and network management.
Key Internet Protocols
Protocol Function Applications
TCP Guarantees the delivery of sent data to the recipient but is File transfer, web browsing,
slower and requires more resources email
UDP Does not guarantee all packets will arrive but is faster and Live streaming, online
needs fewer resources gaming, VOIP
Internet of Things (IoT) Protocols
The IoT network model includes diverse protocols for communication, data collection, data
transfer, and data control. One of the most efficient and secure payment methods in IoT is the
Crypto Classic Protocol, which ensures privacy and transparency of payments directly between
two parties on the blockchain network.
Ports and Sockets
Ports are the first and last stop for information sent across a network. A port is a communication
endpoint, always associated with a protocol and an application. Ports allow data to travel to the
correct application.
Port Information Details
Port Range A network device can have up to 65,536 ports
Socket A two-way communication channel made up of the source IP, protocol, port
number, and destination IP
Sockets are used whenever you send data over your local network or the internet (e.g., web
browsing, sending emails, streaming videos).
Summary
• Networking Models: The OSI and TCP/IP models describe how data flows across layers
and enable communication.
• Networking Standards: Define the rules for data communication and ensure broader
compatibility.
• Network Protocols: Set the rules for data transmission, focusing on security,
communication, and network management.
• Sockets & Ports: Facilitate communication between network devices by using ports and
protocols.
Computer Networks: Wireless Networks and Standards
Wireless Networks and Standards
Wireless networks have become essential for enabling mobility, serving as alternatives to
traditional cable and fiber optic networks. These networks, including WPAN, WLAN, WMAN,
and WWAN, use radio waves for data transmission and reception instead of wires, following IEEE
wireless standards. Below is an overview of each wireless network type, their advantages and
disadvantages, and the relevant wireless networking standards.
Types of Wireless Networks
Network Definition IEEE Common Advantages Disadvantages
Type Standard Technologies
WPAN Connects IEEE Bluetooth, Flexible, Limited range,
(Wireless devices within 802.15 Zigbee, efficient, easy limited data
Personal the range of an Infrared, Ultra- setup, portable rates, expensive
Area individual wideband
Network) (approximately
10 meters).
WLAN Connects IEEE Wi-Fi Reliable, Low coverage
(Wireless devices within 802.11 versatile, high area, affected by
Local Area homes, offices, data rates, easy the number of
Network) or small to manage devices, less
businesses. secure
WMAN Covers larger IEEE WiMAX Covers multiple Requires special
(Wireless geographic 802.16 cities, easy to permissions,
Metropolitan areas (greater extend, less secure,
Area than 100 managed by an slower than
Network) meters). ISP wired
WWAN Provides IEEE 4G, 5G, LTE, Global Expensive,
(Wireless regional, 802.20, LoRaWAN coverage, better difficult to
Wide Area nationwide, or IEEE security, maintain,
Network) global wireless 802.22 centralized decreased
coverage. infrastructure coverage over
large areas
WANET Uses available No Wi-Fi Flexible, no Limited
(Wireless Ad- infrastructure to specific required bandwidth, not
Hoc connect devices standard infrastructure, robust, security
Network) instantly. instant setup risks
MANET A mobile No Wi-Fi, Mobile Flexible, quick Limited
(Mobile Ad- network used specific Communication setup, good for bandwidth, less
Hoc for applications standard temporary security
Network) scenarios
in moving
environments.
VANET A mobile No Wi-Fi, Vehicle Used for Limited
(Vehicular network used specific Communication vehicle-to- coverage,
Ad-Hoc specifically for standard vehicle and security
Network) vehicles. vehicle-to- concerns
infrastructure
communication
Evolution of Cellular Networks
Generation Speed Key Features Advantages Disadvantages
2G 64 kbps Digital voice, simple Low cost, basic voice Limited data, low
data services speed
3G 2 Mbps Mobile broadband, Improved internet access, Higher cost, coverage
GPS, media streaming better multimedia limitations
4G 100 Faster internet, HD High-speed internet, Expensive, limited
Mbps streaming efficient rural coverage
5G 1 Gbps Ultra-fast speeds, low Next-level internet, more High cost, coverage
latency connected devices challenges
Relevant IEEE Standards for Wireless Networks
• IEEE 802.15: Used for WPANs like Bluetooth and Zigbee for short-range
communications.
• IEEE 802.11: Used for WLANs (Wi-Fi), providing home and office connectivity.
• IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX): Used for WMANs, offering broadband connectivity in urban and
metropolitan areas.
• IEEE 802.20: Supports WWANs, particularly cellular networks, optimizing bandwidth
and coverage.
• IEEE 802.22: Utilizes TV frequency spectrum to provide broadband to rural areas.
Use Cases for Wireless Networks
Use Case Network Type Technologies
Emergency Mobile Operations WWAN, Cellular 4G, 5G
Internet on Airplanes WWAN 4G, LTE
Large-Scale Monitoring WWAN, MANET IoT, 4G, 5G
Rural Broadband Connectivity IEEE 802.22 TVWS (TV White Spaces)
In summary, wireless networks provide varying coverage and use cases depending on the type.
IEEE 802.15 (WPANs), 802.11 (WLANs), and 802.16 (WMANs) cater to different ranges and
capacities, while WWANs offer global coverage with evolving cellular technologies.
Standardization, through IEEE 802.20 and 802.22, helps optimize wireless communication across
various sectors.
Activity: Identifying Wireless Network Technologies
Protocol Table
Understanding Protocols, Ports, and Their Uses
A network protocol is an established set of rules that determine how data is transmitted between
different devices in the same network. These protocols are typically created according to industry
standards and serve three primary functions:
• Security
• Communication
• Network Management
Ports are the first and last stops for information sent across a network. A port is a communication
endpoint and always has an associated protocol and application. A network device can have up to
65,536 ports, and default port numbers remain constant.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) vs. User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
Protocol Characteristics Common Applications
TCP (Transmission Ensures that sent data reaches its intended File Transfer Protocol
Control Protocol) recipient. Slower and requires more (FTP), web browsing, email
resources.
UDP (User Datagram Does not guarantee packet delivery, but is Live streaming, online
Protocol) faster and requires fewer resources. gaming, internet calls
TCP (Transmission Ensures that sent data reaches its intended File Transfer Protocol
Control Protocol) recipient. Slower and requires more (FTP), web browsing, email
resources.
Ports send and receive data using TCP, UDP, or both.
Web Page Protocols
Protocol Function Default Port
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) Standard internet/webpage access 80
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Encrypted internet/webpage access 443
Secure) (for sensitive data)
File Transfer Protocols
Protocol Function Default Port
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) Transfers files between a client and a server 21
SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) Encrypted file transfer 22
Remote Access Protocols
Protocol Function Default Port
Telnet (Teletype Network) Remote device control via console (unencrypted) 23
SSH (Secure Shell) Secure remote device control via console (encrypted) 22
RDP (Remote Desktop Remote device control via graphical user interface 3389
Protocol) (GUI)
Email Protocols
Protocol Function Default Port
Downloads email to a single device and deletes it
POP3 (Post Office Protocol v3) 110
from the server
IMAP4 (Internet Message Synchronizes email across multiple devices while
143
Access Protocol v4) storing it on the server
SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer
Sends email messages 25
Protocol)
Network Protocols
Protocol Function Default Port
DHCP (Dynamic Host
Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices 67, 68
Configuration Protocol)
DNS (Domain Name System) Resolves domain names to IP addresses 53
SMB (Server Message Block) Enables file and printer sharing on a network 137-139
SNMP (Simple Network
Monitors network activity 161
Management Protocol)
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Manages and shares authentication details over a
389
Access Protocol) network
Summary
• Protocols determine how data flows on a network
• Ports serve as the entry and exit points for network communication
• Data transmission occurs via TCP, UDP, or both
• Web page protocols include HTTP and HTTPS
• File transfer protocols include FTP and SFTP
• Remote access protocols include Telnet, SSH, and RDP
• Email protocols include POP3, IMAP4, and SMTP
• Network management protocols include DHCP, DNS, SMB, SNMP, and LDAP
Hands-On-Lab: Exploring Networking Ports and Protocols
Estimated time needed: 20 minutes
In this lab, you will investigate local and online resources to see how they use protocols, and to
find public and private IP addresses.
Objectives
In this hands-on lab, you will:
• Identify the protocols used by the default web browser
• Identify the protocol used when visiting a website
• Determine the computer's public IP address
• Determine the computer's private IP address
Important Notices about This Lab
About Lab Sessons
Lab sessions are not persisted. This means that every time you connect to this lab, a new
environment is created for you. Any data or files you saved in a previous session are no longer
available. To avoid losing your data, plan to complete these tasks in a single session.
About the Lab Instructions and Solutions
In case you try to use your physical keyboard in the lab environment, it might not produce any
visible results. To avoid this issue, please use the On-Screen Keyboard (you can find it by
searching for On-Screen Keyboard in the search bar at the bottom of your screen). If search
functionality doesn't work, you can also click on the Windows icon, scroll down to find Windows
Ease of Access, click on it, and then select On-Screen Keyboard.
Microsoft Windows operating system features can vary based on the Windows edition. If
completing these exercises on your machine, your navigation and solutions may differ from what's
presented in this lab.
Exercise 1: Identify the Default Applications Used for The HTTP and HTTPS Protocols
1. Select Search.
2. Type the word protocol, then, select Choose a default app for each protocol.
3. Locate the protocols HTTP and HTTPS and identify the default application.
o The default application for HTTP and HTTPS is Google Chrome.
Practice Exercise
Problem: Determine the default application for LDAP.
Solution
Click Start. Type the word protocol in the search bar, then select Choose a default app for each
protocol. Locate LDAP and identify the default application.
1. The default application is: Windows Contacts.
Exercise 2: Identify the Protocol Used When Visting a website
1. Locate the Google Chrome application and double-click the application to open.
2. Within the search bar, type [Link], then press Enter.
Note: If you get any notification while opening the website please scroll down and chose "No
Thanks" and procced.
3. Once the website loads, click the Site Information [Link] might also get a Lock icon
instead of Site Information icon here.
4. Notice that the dropdown shows that the connection is secure. This means that the Google
Chrome browser is using the HTTPS protocol on port 443 to connect to [Link].
We know this information because HTTPS uses additional security measures to protect the
data transmitted on the webpage and because port 443 is used solely for secure traffic.
Note: Websites that use the HTTP protocol on port 80 are insecure. Insecure connections are far
more vulnerable to hackers and malware than secure connections.
Practice Exercise
Problem: Determine if the connection to [Link] is secure.
Locate the Google Chrome application and double-click to open. In the search bar,
type [Link] and then press Enter. Once on [Link], click the lock icon.
A security status dropdown appears.
1. The connection is secure.
Exercise 3: Determine the Computer's Public IP Address
A public IP address is the address used to access the internet. Public IP addresses are provided by
an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
1. Locate the Google Chrome application and double-click the application to open.
2. Within the search bar, type What is my ip, then press Enter.
3. Scroll down to see Chrome displays the computer's public IP address.
Exercise 4: Determine the Computer's Private IP Address
A private IP address is the address used to access LAN resources. A device's private IP address is
only used within a local network.
1. Search for Network Properties and select View your network properties
Note: You can also go to Settings, click Network & Internet, and then select Status->Advanced
Network Settings. Then select View hardware and Connection Properties
2. Review the left side of the screen.
3. Locate IPv4 address and then IPv6 address.
2. You have found the computer's private IPv4 and IPv6 IP addresses.
Congratulations! You have completed this lab and are ready for the next topic.
Reading: Designing a Basic Network Structure
Objectives
After completing this reading, you will be able to:
• List the benefits of network design
• Describe the consequences of skipping network design planning
• List popular network design tools
• Provide an overview of the steps used to design a basic network structure
Introduction
Network design is the process of planning a network infrastructure tailored to meet an
organization's specific needs. Good network design requires selecting the correct hardware,
software, protocols, and network architecture to deliver data efficiently and securely across the
organization.
The process of designing a network also includes evaluating current and future network
requirements, selecting network devices, and defining the overall network layout.
Let's begin by exploring the benefits of network design.
Benefits of network design
A well-thought-out network design provides several key benefits:
• Are scalable: Thoughtfully designed networks adapt to increased data loads and new
devices without significant overhauls.
• Are secure: Good network design includes security measures, such as firewalls,
encryption, and access controls.
• Provide long-term cost savings: Implementing network resources that are sized correctly
for network loads enables organizations to use their resources for more time without having
to continually upgrade network hardware. A well-designed network also minimizes costly
downtime because of overloaded hardware.
• Are efficient: A well-structured network delivers data and applications quickly so that that
employees can quickly access applications and data.
So, let's examine what can happen if network design planning is overlooked or skipped
Consequences of skipping network design planning
Skipping network planning can lead to the following significant problems:
• Slow performance and frequent network downtime
• Vulnerability to cybersecurity threats
• Overspending because of the initial purchase of unnecessary or incompatible equipment.
Next, check out some popular network design tools.
Popular network design tools
Professionals use a variety of tools to optimize network design. Here are some widely used network
design tools, including IBM solutions and other vendors:
• IBM Netcool Network Management offers comprehensive network management,
including real-time monitoring, fault detection, and performance analysis.
• IBM Cloud Pak for Network Automation automates network deployment and
management and tool integrates AI to enhance network decision-making and efficiency.
• IBM Spectrum Control primarily used for storage management, and provides valuable
insights into network performance and resource allocation, to optimize the network's data
flow and storage.
• IBM SevOne Network Performance Management focuses on performance monitoring
and analytics, which is essential during the design phase to ensure that the network meets
performance benchmarks and can handle projected loads.
And, consider some other vendor choices:
• Cisco Network Assistant is a tool for configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting
networks.
• SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper automatically maps out network devices and
connections.
• NetBrain provides network automation and real-time mapping capabilities.
• Microsoft Visio creates detailed network diagrams.
• GNS3This is an open-source tool for simulating complex networks,
• Wireshark is a network protocol analyzer for monitoring network traffic in real time.
Now that you know why network design is important, explore the steps needed to design a basic
network structure.
Steps to design a basic network structure
• Gather the business requirements
▪ Identify why the organization needs to install or update a network.
▪ Define the budget and infrastructure constraints
▪ Determine which legacy systems need support.
• Assess the state of the current network hardware and technologies
▪ Evaluate the existing network infrastructure.
▪ Diagram and document current network devices, cabling layouts, and
communication technologies.
▪ Decide which network hardware the organization can reuse and which hardware
the organization must replace.
• Define the new network's goals
▪ Document features for the new network, such as improved performance, enhanced
security, or simplified management.
• Select the devices and technologies
▪ Specify the necessary hardware and software, including servers, routers, firewalls,
network management and security software
• Design the physical network
▪ Plan for the servers, switches, firewalls, cabling, and more.
▪ Use diagrams to map the hardware connections for network structure compatibility
▪ Develop an implementation plan that specifies timelines and the resources (people)
needed for implementation.
• Document the network design
▪ Store the network documentation, including the diagrams, hardware configuration
information, and business requirements, in an accessible location. The company
will need this documentation for future modifications, troubleshooting, and disaster
recovery.
Recap
• Network design is the process of planning and creating a network infrastructure tailored to
meet an organization's specific needs, ensuring efficient and secure data flow.
• A well-designed network improves efficiency, scalability, security, cost-effectiveness, and
user experience.
• Skipping network design planning leads to inefficiencies, security vulnerabilities, higher
costs, and limited scalability.
• Essential steps and considerations to design a basic network structure include gathering
requirements, assessing the current state, defining network goals, selecting devices and
technologies, designing the physical network, creating an implemenation plan, and
documenting the network design.
• IBM's frequently used network design tools include Netcool Network Management, Cloud
Pak for Network Automation, Spectrum Control, and SevOne Network Performance
Management.
Hands-On-Lab: Designing a Basic Network Structure
Objective: This lab introduces you to designing a basic network structure for a small organization
using the drawing tool ([Link] tool). The focus will be on understanding and placing essential
network hardware components like routers, switches, and user devices.
Step 1: Introduction to basic network hardware
Task: Review the basic network components of a small organizational setup
Components:
1. Router: Connects the organization's network to the internet
2. Switch: Connects multiple devices within the local network
3. User Devices: Employees use desktops, laptops, or printers
Step 2: Getting started with [Link]:
Task 1: Open [Link] and start a new blank diagram
1. Open [Link] and select your workspace to save the file
2. Select Create New Diagram
3. Choose a blank template and name your file (Basic Network Design) and click Create
4. Save the file in your workspace (in this example, the selected workspace is the local
system).
5. Familiarize yourself with the interface, focusing on the shape library where you'll find
networking components.
Step 3: Designing the basic network layout
Task: Create a simple organizational network structure using basic network hardware
1. Adding the router
• Search for the router icon through the "Search Shape" option.
• Select the appropriate shape representing the router device and drag it to the drawing space.
• Place the router at the top, connecting the organization to the internet.
2. Adding the switch
• Search for the switch icon through the "Search Shape" option.
• Drag a switch icon following the router.
• Connect the router to the switch using the connector tool (line shapes in the general tab) to
represent the link between them.
3. Adding user devices
• Drag icons for desktops, laptops, or printers following the switch.
• Connect each device to the switch using the connector tool, showing how they share the
network.
Step 4: Labeling and finalizing the diagram
Task: Ensure that all components are correctly labeled and connected.
• Double-click the component icons and add a label for each component ( "Router,"
"Switch," "Employee PCs"). The text size and style can be adjusted with the options
available in the right pane.
• Add a text box to represent the router's internet connection.
• Review the layout to ensure all devices are properly connected.
Step 5: Saving and exporting the diagram
• Click File > Save As to save your diagram to your local machine or cloud storage (The
same options selected at the beginning of the project).
• Export the diagram as a PNG or PDF file for easy sharing or printing (File > Export As >
PNG/PDF).
Exercises
Exercise 1: Designing a simple wired network
Objective:
Use essential network hardware to create a basic wired network layout for a small office.
Instructions:
1. Open [Link] and start a new diagram.
2. Add the following components:
▪ 1 Router
▪ 1 Switch
▪ 3 Desktops
3. Connect the router to the switch using a straight line.
4. Connect each desktop to the switch using straight lines.
5. Label each component as follows:
▪ Router: "Office Router"
▪ Switch: "Main Switch"
▪ Desktops: "Employee PC 1," "Employee PC 2," and "Employee PC 3"
6. Save your diagram and export it as a PNG file.
Exercise 2: Adding wireless connectivity
Objective
Enhance the existing network design to include wireless connectivity for mobile devices.
Instructions
1. Open the diagram you created in Exercise 1.
2. Add the following components:
▪ 1 Wireless access point (WAP)
▪ 2 Laptops
3. Using a straight line, connect the wireless access point (WAP) to the switch.
4. Indicate that the laptops are connected wirelessly to the WAP by drawing dotted lines
between them.
5. Label the new components as follows:
o WAP: "Office WAP"
o Laptops: "Employee Laptop 1" and "Employee Laptop 2"
6. Save your updated diagram and export it as a PNG file.
Summary
In these exercises, you successfully designed a basic network layout for a small office
using [Link] starting with a simple wired setup and then expanding it to
wireless connectivity. These tasks helped reinforce the foundational concepts of network design,
such as connecting essential hardware components like routers, switches, and wireless access
points. By completing this lab, you have gained practical experience in visualizing and organizing
network structures, which is crucial for managing and scaling real-world network environments.
Practice Quiz: Networking Fundamentals
End of Module 1