Networking Essentials: Interconnecting the LANs
5-1 Introduction
The framework defining the network layers for linking networks together is defined by the OSI model and was introduced in Chapter 1, “Introduction to Computer Networks,” section 1-3. The OSI model provides a framework for networking that ensures compatibility in the network hardware and software. The concepts behind the hardware technologies used to interconnect LANs are presented in sections 5-2 to 5-5. The properties of a networking bridge are defined in section 5-2. The layer 2 switch is examined in section 5-3, and the router is introduced in section 5-4. An example of interconnecting LANs is provided in section 5-5. The chapter concludes with a section on the concept of auto-negotiation, examining the advantages and disadvantages of this network configuration option.
Table 5-1 lists and identifies, by chapter section, where each of the CompTIA Network+ objectives are presented in this chapter. The chapter sections where each objective is presented are identified. At the end of each chapter section is a review with comments of the Network+ objectives presented in that section. These comments are provided to help reinforce the reader’s understanding of a particular Network+ objective. The chapter review also includes “Test Your Knowledge” questions to aid in the understanding of key concepts before the reader advances to the next section of the chapter. The end of the chapter includes a complete set of question plus sample certification type questions.
TABLE 5-1 Chapter 5 CompTIA Network+ Objectives
Domain/Objective Number |
Domain/Objective Description |
Section Where Objective Is Covered |
1.0 |
Network Architecture |
|
1.1 |
Explain the functions and applications of various network devices |
5-3, 5-4 |
1.3 |
Install and configure the following networking services/applications |
5-4 |
1.4 |
Explain the characteristics and benefits of various WAN technologies |
5-4 |
1.7 |
Differentiate between network infrastructure implementations |
5-2 |
1.8 |
Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate addressing schema |
5-2, 5-3 |
1.9 |
Explain the basics of routing concepts and protocols |
5-3, 5-5 |
2.0 |
Network Operations |
|
2.6 |
Given a scenario, configure a switch using proper features |
5-4 |
4.0 |
Troubleshooting |
|
4.2 |
Given a scenario, analyze and interpret the output of troubleshooting tools |
5-3 |
4.6 |
Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common network issues |
5-5 |
5.0 |
Industry standards, practices, and network theory |
|
5.2 |
Explain the basics of network theory and concepts |
5-2, 5-4, 5-6 |