Course Overview: This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of network communication, protocols, and terminology. Students will learn how networks function, including network topologies, protocols, and security.

Module 1: Introduction to Networking

• Basics of networking and its significance
• Types of networks (LAN, WAN, PAN, etc.)
• The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model
• Common networking components (routers, switches, hubs, etc.)

Module 2: Network Topologies and Architecture

• Understanding network topologies (star, bus, ring, mesh)
• Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN)
• Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer architectures
• Cloud computing and virtual networks

Module 3: Networking Devices and Components

• Routers, switches, hubs, and access points
• Network cables and connectors
• Network cards and modems
• Network peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.)

Module 4: IP Addressing and Subnetting

• IPv4 vs. IPv6
• Subnet masks and subnetting
• IP address assignment and DHCP
• Public vs. private IP addresses

Module 5: Network Protocols and Communication

• Introduction to network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP, etc.)
• Packet-switching vs. circuit-switching
• Data transmission and flow control
• Encapsulation and de-encapsulation

Module 6: DNS (Domain Name System)

• The role of DNS in network communication
• How domain names are resolved to IP addresses
• DNS records (A, CNAME, MX, etc.)
• DNS security and DNSSEC

Module 7: Network Security and Encryption

• Common security threats (viruses, malware, DDoS attacks)
• Firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS)
• Encryption and secure communication (HTTPS, SSL/TLS)
• Network security best practices

Module 8: Wireless Networking

• Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) vs. wired LAN
• Wireless standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac)
• Securing wireless networks (WPA, WEP, WPA2)
• Wireless site surveys and optimization

Module 9: Network Administration and Management

• Network administration tasks and responsibilities
• Network monitoring and troubleshooting
• Network management tools (e.g., SNMP)
• Configuration and maintenance of network devices

Module 10: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

• Introduction to VPNs and their use cases
• Types of VPNs (site-to-site, remote access)
• VPN protocols (PPTP, L2TP, IPsec, SSL)
• Setting up a VPN connection

Module 11: Cloud Networking

• Cloud-based networking solutions (e.g., AWS, Azure)
• Virtual networks in the cloud
• Network-as-a-Service (NaaS)
• Hybrid and multi-cloud networking

Module 12: Emerging Network Technologies

• Introduction to emerging technologies (5G, IoT, SDN)
• The impact of AI and machine learning on networking
• Future trends in networking

Final Project: Students will design and configure a small network, including IP addressing, DNS setup, and network security measures. The project will provide hands-on experience in network setup and troubleshooting.