Computer Networks/Standards

This lesson introduces computer network standards.

Objectives and Skills

Objectives and skills for the standards portion of Network+ certification include:

• Analyze a scenario and determine the corresponding OSI layer
  • Layer 1 – Physical
  • Layer 2 – Data link
  • Layer 3 – Network
  • Layer 4 – Transport
  • Layer 5 – Session
  • Layer 6 – Presentation
  • Layer 7 – Application
• Explain the basics of network theory and concepts
  • Encapsulation/de-encapsulation
  • Modulation techniques
    • Multiplexing
    • De-multiplexing
    • Analog and digital techniques
    • TDM
  • TCP/IP suite
    • ICMP
    • UDP
    • TCP

Readings

1. Wikipedia: OSI model
2. Wikipedia: Internet protocol suite

Multimedia

1. YouTube: Understanding the OSI Model - CompTIA Network+ N10-006 - 5.1
2. YouTube: Network Fundamentals - CompTIA Network+ N10-006 - 5.2
3. YouTube: The TCP/IP Suite - CompTIA Network+ N10-006 - 5.2

Activities

1. Review StudyTonight: Comparison of OSI Reference Model and TCP/IP Reference Model. Draw your own personal reference chart comparing the Internet protocol suite four-layer model to the OSI seven-layer model.
2. Review the information boxes on the top right of Wikipedia: OSI model and Wikipedia: Internet protocol suite. Identify protocols you recognize from both information boxes and add them to your reference chart. At a minimum, you should include Ethernet, IP, TCP, UDP, DHCP, DNS, HTTP, IMAP, POP, and SMTP.
3. Observe network layers in operating system software.
   • Review PluralSight: Windows 7 Advanced Network Configuration.
   • Examine network connection properties on your system. Identify which OSI and Internet protocol suite layers each of the connection items represents. Add these to your reference chart.
4. Consider why the OSI seven layer model is sometimes referred to as a theoretical model while the Internet protocol suite might be referred to as an operational model.
5. Use a protocol analyzer to observe protocol layering and encapsulation.
   • Install Wireshark.
   • Review Wireshark: User's Guide.
   • Use Wireshark to capture network traffic.