Chapter 1: Network Fundamentals

Overview

THE FOLLOWING NETWORK+ EXAM OBJECTIVES ARE COVERED IN THIS CHAPTER:

• 1.1 Recognize the following logical or physical network topologies given a schematic diagram or description:

  • star/hierarchical

  • bus

  • mesh

  • ring

  • wireless

• 1.3 Specify the characteristics (e.g., speed, length, topology, cable type, etc.) of the following:

  • 802.3 (Ethernet) standards

  • 10BASE-T

  • 100BASE-TX

  • 10BASE2

  • 10BASE5

  • 100BASE-FX

  • Gigabit Ethernet

• 1.4 Recognize the following media connectors and/or describe their uses:

  • RJ-11

  • RJ-45

  • AUI

  • BNC

  • ST

  • SC

• 1.6 Identify the purpose, features, and functions of the following network components:

  • hubs

  • switches

  • bridges

  • routers

  • gateways

  • CSU/DSU

  • network interface cards/ISDN adapters/system area network cards

  • wireless access points

  • modems

• 3.4 Identify the main characteristics of network attached storage.

By themselves, computers are powerful tools. When they are connected in a network, they become even more powerful because the functions and tools that each computer provides can be shared with other computers. Networks exist for one major reason: to share information and resources.

Networks can be very simple, such as a small group of computers that share information, or they can be very complex, spanning large geographical areas. Regardless of the type of network, a certain amount of maintenance is always required. Because each network is different and probably utilizes many diverse technologies, it is important to understand the fundamentals of networking and how networking components interact. This chapter will introduce the components of a network and help you establish a base of knowledge that you can use throughout your networking studies, as well as help you prepare for the Network+ certification exam.