COMPUTER NETWORK SETUP

Terminate Computer network cables

1.1 Selecting Network devices
1.1.1 Introduction to computer networks

A computer network is a system that connects two or more computing devices (such as
computers, servers, printers, or mobile devices) so they can share resources, exchange data, and
communicate efficiently. A computer network as a system of connected devices that share
resources and exchange information.

 What comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘network’?”
 “Where have you seen computers being connected?”

 Purpose of computer networks:

o Enable communication (email, messaging, video conferencing).
o Allow resource sharing (files, printers, applications).
o Provide data accessibility from different locations.
o Enhance collaboration in workplaces and learning institutions.
o Support internet access and global connectivity.

1.1.2 Types of network topologies

A network topology is the arrangement or layout of devices (nodes) and connections in a

computer network.

The main types include:

1. Bus Topology
o All devices share a single communication line (backbone).
o Cheap and easy to install.
o Failure in the main cable disrupts the whole network.
2. Star Topology
o All devices connect to a central hub or switch.
 o Easy to manage and troubleshoot.
o If the central hub fails, the whole network goes down.
3. Ring Topology
o Devices are connected in a closed loop (ring).
o Data travels in one direction (or both in dual ring).
o Failure of one device can affect the entire network unless fault-tolerance is built
in.
4. Mesh Topology
o Every device is connected to every other device.
o Provides high redundancy and reliability.
o Expensive due to many connections.
5. Tree (Hierarchical) Topology
o Combines star and bus topologies.
o Devices are grouped in star networks connected to a main backbone.
o Scalable but backbone failure affects the whole network.
6. Hybrid Topology
o A combination of two or more topologies (e.g., star-bus, star-ring).
o Flexible and scalable, but design and maintenance can be complex.

1.1.3 Types of network devices

1.1.4 Components of a computer networks
1.1.5 Types of network tools
1.1.6 Cable color coding

1.1.3 Types of Network Devices

Network devices are hardware used to build, connect, and manage computer networks. Common
devices include:

 Router – Connects different networks (e.g., LAN to the internet) and directs data
packets.
 Switch – Connects multiple devices in a LAN and forwards data to the correct device.
 Hub – A basic device that broadcasts data to all connected devices (less efficient than a
switch).
 Access Point (AP) – Provides wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi) for devices.
 Modem – Converts digital signals to analog (and vice versa) for internet access.
 Firewall – Protects networks from unauthorized access and threats.
 Server – Provides services such as file storage, printing, or hosting websites.

1.1.4 Components of a Computer Network

A computer network consists of hardware, software, and transmission media:

1. Hardware Components
o Computers, laptops, smartphones.
o Network devices (routers, switches, hubs, servers).
 oTransmission media (cables, radio waves).
2. Software Components
o Network Operating Systems (e.g., Windows Server, Linux).
o Network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP).
o Security software (antivirus, firewalls).
3. Transmission Media
o Wired: Twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, fiber optics.
o Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared, satellite.

1.1.5 Types of Network Tools

Network tools are instruments or software used for testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining
networks.

 Hardware Tools
o Crimping Tool – Fixes connectors (RJ45) to cables.
o Cable Tester – Checks cable connectivity and faults.
o Punch-Down Tool – Fixes wires into patch panels or keystone jacks.
o Toner Probe/Tracer – Identifies cables in a bundle.
 Software Tools
o Ping / Traceroute – Checks connectivity and path to a destination.
o Wireshark – Monitors and analyzes network traffic.
o Network Performance Monitors – Check speed, bandwidth usage.

1.1.6 Cable Color Coding

Color coding helps in wiring Ethernet cables (RJ45) correctly. There are two main standards:
T568A and T568B.

T568A Standard:
1. White/Green
2. Green
3. White/Orange
4. Blue
5. White/Blue
6. Orange
7. White/Brown
8. Brown

T568B Standard:
1. White/Orange
2. Orange
3. White/Green
4. Blue
5. White/Blue
6. Green
7. White/Brown
 8. Brown

 Straight-through cable: Both ends use the same standard (A-A or B-B).
 Crossover cable: One end T568A, the other T568B (used to connect devices directly
without a switch).

1.2 Network Cable trunking is performed as per work requirements

1.2.1 Definition cable trunking
1.2.2 Types of cable trunking
1.2.3 Tools used in cabling trunking
[Link] Measuring tape
[Link] Pencil
[Link] Cable ties
[Link] Wire cutters
[Link] Safety equipment
[Link] Spirit level
[Link] Drill
[Link] Screwdriver

1.2.1 Definition of Cable Trunking

Cable trunking is a method of housing and protecting electrical or network cables inside enclosed
channels (usually made of plastic, PVC, or metal) to provide a neat, safe, and organized cabling
system. It prevents damage to cables, reduces clutter, and makes future maintenance or
expansion easier.

1.2.2 Types of Cable Trunking

1. Standard Trunking – Simple rectangular channel with a removable cover.

2. Mini Trunking – Smaller in size, used for light cabling like telephone or data cables.
3. Perforated Trunking – Has slots or holes for ventilation and easy cable exit.
4. Circular Trunking (Conduit) – Round pipes (plastic or metallic) often used for single
or fewer cables.
5. Flexible Trunking – Bendable type for complex layouts.
6. Floor Trunking – Designed to run cables under floors, common in offices and data
centers.
7. Skirting Trunking – Installed at skirting (wall edges) combining cable routing with
decorative finishing.
8. Heavy-Duty/Industrial Trunking – Metallic, strong, and resistant to harsh
environments.

1.2.3 Tools Used in Cable Trunking

 Measuring tape – For accurate cable and trunking measurement.
 Marker/Pencil/Chalk line – To mark cutting or drilling points.
 Hacksaw or Trunking Cutter – To cut trunking to required lengths.
 Screwdriver/Drill – For fastening screws and fixing trunking to walls.
 Spirit Level – To ensure straight alignment of trunking.
  Hammer and Nails/Wall plugs – For fixing trunking in place.
 Cable stripper – For preparing cables before insertion.
 Pliers – For gripping and cutting smaller wires or fixing clips.
 File/Deburring Tool – To smooth sharp edges after cutting trunking.

1.3 Network cable termination

1.3.1 Definition of networking cable termination
1.3.2 Tools for cable termination

1.3 Network Cable Termination

Network cable termination is the process of connecting the ends of a network cable to a
connector, jack, or patch panel so that it can be used to establish a reliable connection between
devices in a computer network. Proper termination ensures efficient data transmission, reduces
signal loss, and minimizes network errors.

1.3.1 Definition of Networking Cable Termination

Networking cable termination refers to the method of preparing and attaching connectors (such
as RJ-45 connectors) or connecting cables to structured cabling systems (like patch panels or
wall jacks) to enable proper communication in a network. It involves stripping the cable,
arranging the wires in the correct color coding standard (T568A or T568B), and fixing them
securely into the connector.

1.3.2 Tools for Cable Termination

1. Crimping Tool – Used to attach connectors (e.g., RJ-45) to the cable ends.
2. Cable Stripper – Removes the outer insulation of the cable without damaging the wires
inside.
3. Punch Down Tool – Used to insert wires into patch panels or keystone jacks.
4. Cable Tester – Verifies the connectivity and correctness of the cable termination.
5. Scissors/Shears – Cuts cables neatly for termination.
6. Wire Cutter – Cuts wires to the required length.
7. RJ-45 Connectors – Standard connectors used for Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.).

[Link] RJ45 connectors

[Link] Crimping tool
[Link] Wire stripper
[Link] Cable cutter
1.3.2 Process of cable termination [Link] Cable stripping
[Link] Color coding
[Link] Cable crimping
1.3 Network Cable Termination
Network cable termination is the process of connecting the ends of a network cable to a
connector, jack, or patch panel so that it can be used to establish a reliable connection between
devices in a computer network. Proper termination ensures efficient data transmission, reduces
signal loss, and minimizes network errors.
1.3.1 Definition of Networking Cable Termination

Networking cable termination refers to the method of preparing and attaching connectors (such
as RJ-45 connectors) or connecting cables to structured cabling systems (like patch panels or
wall jacks) to enable proper communication in a network. It involves stripping the cable,
arranging the wires in the correct color coding standard (T568A or T568B), and fixing them
securely into the connector.

1.3.2 Tools for Cable Termination

1. Crimping Tool – Used to attach connectors (e.g., RJ-45) to the cable ends.
2. Cable Stripper – Removes the outer insulation of the cable without damaging the wires
inside.
3. Punch Down Tool – Used to insert wires into patch panels or keystone jacks.
4. Cable Tester – Verifies the connectivity and correctness of the cable termination.
5. Scissors/Shears – Cuts cables neatly for termination.
6. Wire Cutter – Cuts wires to the required length.
7. RJ-45 Connectors – Standard connectors used for Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.).

2.1.1 Computer Network Safety Measures

Before working on computer networks, safety precautions are essential to protect both the
technician and the equipment.

 [Link] Overall/Apron/Dust Coat – Protects the body and clothes from dust, dirt, and
accidental spills.
 [Link] Gloves – Used when handling cables or sharp tools to prevent cuts and injuries.
 [Link] Safety Boots – Protect the feet from electrical hazards, falling tools, or heavy
equipment.
 [Link] Ergonomics – Applying proper posture and workstation setup to reduce strain,
fatigue, and long-term injuries.
 [Link] First Aid Kit – Readily available for treating minor injuries such as cuts, burns,
or shocks.

2.3 Network Cable Testing

Testing ensures cables are functional, safe, and compliant with networking standards.
2.3.1 Cable Testing Methods
Different methods are used to check the integrity and performance of cables.

2.3.2 Continuity Testing – Ensures the cable conducts electricity properly from end to end.
Continuity testing in networking is the process of checking whether an electrical connection
(such as a network cable) is complete and unbroken from one end to the other. It ensures that
data signals can travel properly through the cable without interruption. The main purpose is to
verify that the cable conductors are properly connected and there are no breaks. Tools Used

1. Cable Tester / Network Cable Tester – checks pin-to-pin connections.

2. Multimeter – measures electrical continuity (used for simple checks).
  2.3.3 Wire Mapping – Checks correct pin-to-pin connections in structured cabling (e.g.,
T568A/T568B standards).
 2.3.4 Cable Length Testing – Measures cable length to detect breaks, shorts, or if the
cable exceeds maximum distance.
 2.3.5 Fault Detection – Identifies issues like open circuits, short circuits, split pairs, or
crosstalk.

2.3.6 Cable Testing Tools

Specialized tools are used to carry out the tests:
 [Link] Cable Tester – Verifies connectivity, wire mapping, and faults in network cables.
 [Link] Multimeter – Measures voltage, resistance, and continuity in cables.
 [Link] Crimping Tool – Used for attaching RJ45 connectors to cables.
 [Link] Wire Stripper and Cutter – Used for removing insulation and trimming network
cables to the right length.

2.3 Network Cable Testing

Testing network cables ensures they are properly connected, safe, and can transmit data without
errors.
2.3.1 Cable Testing Methods
These are techniques used to check whether a cable is working correctly. They include:
 Checking for continuity
 Verifying correct wiring (pin-to-pin mapping)
 Measuring cable length
 Detecting faults like shorts, opens, or crossovers

2.3.2 Continuity Testing

 Ensures that electrical signals can pass from one end of the cable to the other without
interruption.
 Confirms there are no breaks or loose connections in the wires.
 Done using a multimeter or basic cable tester.

2.3.3 Wire Mapping

 Verifies that each wire inside the cable is connected to the correct pin at both ends
(according to T568A or T568B standards).
 Detects issues such as open pairs, crossed wires, reversed pairs, or split pairs.
 Done using a cable tester with mapping function.

2.3.4 Cable Length Testing

 Measures the total length of a cable to ensure it doesn’t exceed the recommended
maximum (e.g., 100 meters for Ethernet).
 Helps identify cable breaks or damage by locating the fault position.
 Performed using a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) or advanced cable testers.
2.3.5 Fault Detection
 Identifies problems such as:
o Open circuit – wire not connected
o Short circuit – two wires touching each other
o Crossed pairs – wires connected to wrong pins
o Split pairs – pairs incorrectly separated, causing interference
 Helps in troubleshooting and repairing faulty cables.

2.4.1 Networking Standards

Networking standards are internationally agreed-upon rules and protocols that ensure
interoperability between devices, systems, and software across networks. They provide
guidelines for how data is transmitted, formatted, and managed.

[Link] HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the foundation of data communication on

the World Wide Web. It is a protocol used for transmitting hypertext (web pages) between a
client (like a web browser) and a server (where the website’s files are stored).

IEEE – Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

802.1 – Working group within the IEEE 802 committee focusing on network management and
internetworking.

 An application-layer protocol used for transmitting hypermedia documents (like web

pages).
 Operates on port 80 (HTTP) and port 443 (HTTPS).
 Defines how clients (browsers) and servers communicate.
 Stateless protocol, meaning each request is independent of the previous one.

[Link] IEEE 802.1 is a set of networking standards developed by the Institute of Electrical
and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
It defines the architecture, management, and security aspects of Local Area Networks
(LANs) and Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), forming part of the broader IEEE 802
family (which also includes standards like 802.3 for Ethernet and 802.11 for Wi-Fi).

In simple terms, IEEE 802.1 provides the rules that govern how LANs are managed, bridged,
and secured.

 Part of the IEEE 802 family of networking standards.

 Deals with network bridging, LAN/MAN architecture, security, and network
management.
 Provides specifications for:
o VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks)
o Bridging (spanning tree protocol – STP)
o Quality of Service (QoS) for traffic management.
[Link] TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)

 The fundamental suite of protocols that power the Internet.

 TCP ensures reliable, connection-oriented communication.
 IP handles addressing and routing of data packets.
 Includes supporting protocols like UDP, ICMP, ARP, DNS, and DHCP.

2.5 Network Connection Establishment

The process of creating a communication link between devices in a network:
1. Physical connection – using cables (Ethernet, fiber optics) or wireless (Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth).
2. Address assignment – via static IP configuration or DHCP.
3. Session establishment – using protocols like TCP for connection-oriented
communication.
4. Authentication – validating devices/users (e.g., WPA2 for Wi-Fi, login credentials).
5. Data transmission – communication begins once the connection is active.

2.6 Network Testing

Network testing ensures that a network is functioning correctly, reliably, and efficiently.
Common network testing methods include:

 Continuity Testing – checks if cables are properly connected end-to-end.

 Wire Mapping – verifies correct wiring order (avoids crossovers/shorts).
 Cable Length Testing – ensures cable does not exceed recommended length (e.g., 100m
for Cat5e/6).
 Fault Detection – identifies breaks, shorts, or interference.
 Ping & Traceroute – software tools to check connectivity and latency.
 Performance Testing – measuring bandwidth, throughput, and network speed.