CMIT 265
Fundamentals of Networking

Fall Session 1: 21 Aug ~ 11 Oct 2012
Kadena
TTh 2000-2245

Instructor: David Wills

E-mail: dwills@asia.umuc.edu
Class web site: http://davidwills.net/cmit265

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

(Designed to help prepare for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.) Prerequisite: CMIT 202. An introduction to networking technologies for local area networks, wide area networks, the Internet, and wireless networks. The aim is to recognize the type of network design appropriate for a given scenario. Topics include the OSI (open system connectivity) model, security, and networking protocols. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CMIT 265 or CMIT 265M.

COURSE INTRODUCTION:

Through lectures, discussions, textbook exercises and demonstrations, this course introduces the underlying hardware and software concepts of data networking, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model, and the protocols that operate at the various model layers.
This course teaches the skills and knowledge necessary to help prepare students for the Network+ Certification Exam No. N10-002 administered by Computing Technology Industry Association(CompTIA). The Network+ certification program covers the networking technologies most commonly used today. Passing the Network+ certification exam means that you have proof of professional achievement that is valuable for demonstrating that you possess the basic knowledge and skills needed to work as a computer networking professional.
This course is an introduction to networking technologies for local-area networks (LANs), wide-area networks (WANs), and wireless networks, with an emphasis on the open systems interconnection (OSI) model, security, and networking protocols. By the completion of this course, you will be able to identify network topologies, media types, interconnectivity, and protocols. You will participate in lab simulation activities and develop a network design proposal. Our aim is to prepare you for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam. Concepts learned in this course will be directly applicable to the IT networking field.

COURSE OUTCOMES:

After completing this course, you will be able to

apply the concepts of the OSI model in the design, management, and troubleshooting of networks
identify and compare network devices, media, and topologies
select, assemble, and install cables and distribution panels in compliance with wiring standards
identify and apply networking tools, technologies, security principles, and protocols to network infrastructure, including LANs, WLANs, and WANs

Other stuff you might learn:

Identify the components of a network and determine the type of network design most appropriate for a given site.
Identify the different media used in network communications, distinguish among them, and determine how to use them to connect servers and clients in a network.
Differentiate among networking standards, protocols, and access methods and determine which is most appropriate for a given network.
Recognize the primary network architectures, identify their major characteristics, and determine which is most appropriate for a proposed network.
Identify the primary functions of network operating systems and distinguish between a centralized computing environment and a client/server environment.
Determine how to implement and support the major networking components, including the server, operating system, and clients.
Propose a system for adequately securing data on a given network and protecting the system's components.
Distinguish between LANs and wide-area networks (WANs) and identify the components used to expand a LAN into a WAN.
Determine how to use Routers, Switches, Hubs, CSU/DSU, and other access hardware in the larger LAN/WAN environment.
Identify the major periods in the history of networking technologies
Identify strategic LAN support tools and resources and determine how to use them in troubleshooting basic network problems.

COURSE MATERIALS:

 9780131358386  	NETWORKING 2ND'09 ED.  	BEASLEY

A variety of free software will be used in the course. Bringing your laptop to class is encouraged.

Grading Information:

EVALUATION: Your grade will be based on examinations and some exercises and homework in the following proportions:

   Midterm Exam:             20%
   Final Exam:               30%
   Exercises/Assignments:    50%

The grade of 'A' means "outstanding", i.e. "mastery of the material". The grade of 'B' means "good". The grade of 'C' means "satisfactory".
Grades are curved and related to the class average. "Significantly above" the class average are the A's, "above" (or sometimes even at) the class average are the B's, at or below the class average are the C's. Significantly below the class average are the D's and F's.
Usually, in the 90's is an A, 80's is a B, 70's is a C. Actually, this method is to your advantage, as often the curve for grades is lower than the traditional 90-100 A, 80-90 B etc, in other words it might be 85-100 is an A etc.
The grade of “Fn” may only be assigned if a student stops attending class during the first 60% of the class.

PENALTIES: There are penalties for late work. All work must be submitted as specified.

INCOMPLETES: The grade of I is exceptional and given only to students whose completed course work has been qualitatively satisfactory but who have been unable to complete all course requirements because of illness or other extenuating circumstances beyond their control. The grade of I may be considered only for students who have completed at least fifty (50) percent of the total course work requirements and who have received a passing grade on all the course work which they have completed. the instructor retains the right to make the final decision on granting a student's request for an I, even though the student may meet the eligibility requirements for this grade.

POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND GRADES: IAW with the University of Maryland, University Catalog, Asian Division, and the Student Handbook (current editions). These cover essential information such as attendance, grading, make-up work and plagiarism.

Office hours are available at the request of students.

CMIT 265 Fundamentals of Networking

Fall Session 1: 21 Aug ~ 11 Oct 2012 Kadena TTh 2000-2245