Foundations of Networking
Published 10/2025
Created by TechKnowSurge (Andrew Grimes)
MP4 | Video: h264, 1280x720 | Audio: AAC, 44.1 KHz, 2 Ch Level: Beginner | Genre: eLearning | Language: English | Duration: 229 Lectures ( 28h 5m) | Size: 28.6 GB
Understand Devices, Protocols, and Communication from the Ground Up
What you'll learn
Explain key networking terms and concepts such as network services, protocols, ports, collisions, broadcasts, and packets.
Describe how communication flows within computer networks from one device to another.
Differentiate between basic networking equipment, including network interface cards (NICs), hubs, and routers.
Identify common types of network media used to transmit data.
Recognize the roles of MAC and IP addressing in identifying and connecting devices on a network.
Explain the purpose of Wireshark and how it is used to capture and analyze network traffic
Describe how to install Wireshark and use Wireshark to capture and analyze packets
Explain the difference between circuit switching and packet switching and why packet switching is preferred in modern networks
Describe how protocols define communication rules and functions between networked devices
Identify common protocol functions such as addressing, segmentation, sequencing, and flow control
Explain the purpose and structure of the OSI model and its seven layers
Compare the OSI model to the TCP/IP model and describe how data moves through each
Identify common types of end devices and explain their roles in a network
Describe how intermediary devices such as switches, routers, and wireless access points manage and direct network traffic
Explain concepts such as collision domains and broadcast domains in relation to network design
Recognize the function of key network components including gateways, firewalls, and servers
Explain the importance and impact of technologies such as IoT and BYOD in modern networking environments
Identify common network topology types such as bus, star, ring, mesh, hybrid, and point-to-point
Describe how network scale and structure vary across LANs, WANs, MANs, PANs, and other area networks
Explain common cloud service models including SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS
Set up a test network to run networking labs
Explain the role of the Physical Layer (Layer 1) in the OSI model
Identify common physical components such as NICs, cables, and connectors
Differentiate between copper, fiber, and wireless transmission media
Describe key concepts including bandwidth, throughput, latency, and signal loss
Recognize cable types, categories, and connector standards used in networking
Explain the role of the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) in the OSI model
Identify common Layer 2 devices and protocols such as switches, Ethernet, and PPP
Describe how MAC addressing and ARP support local network communication
Differentiate between half-duplex and full-duplex transmission and how collisions are managed
Explain how switches learn, forward, and manage frames within a network
Explain the purpose and structure of IPv4 addressing
Identify different types of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses including unicast, broadcast, multicast, and private addresses
Describe how subnet masks and prefix lengths define networks and hosts
Explain the role of the Network Layer (Layer 3) in the OSI model
Describe how routers use IP addressing and routing tables to forward packets between networks
Differentiate between static and dynamic routing and explain the purpose of routing protocols
Explain how data moves across Layer 2 and Layer 3 devices within local and remote networks
Explain the role of the Transport Layer (Layer 4) in the OSI model
Differentiate between TCP and UDP and describe when each is used
Describe how ports and sockets identify specific network services and connections
Explain how the Transport Layer provides segmentation, sequencing, and flow control
Identify common network services and their associated port numbers
Explain the roles of the Application, Presentation, and Session layers in the OSI model
Differentiate between client-server and peer-to-peer networking models
Identify common Application Layer protocols such as DNS, DHCP, HTTP/HTTPS, and email protocols
Explain the purpose of troubleshooting in network maintenance
Identify common network issues that occur at Layer 1 and above
Use basic troubleshooting tools such as ping, tracert, and command-line utilities
Describe how ICMP is used to test and verify network connectivity
Recognize the role of monitoring and diagnostic software in maintaining network performance
Explain the importance of security in protecting network systems and data
Identify common vulnerabilities and threat agents that impact network security
Describe key security concepts including risk management and basic security principles
Recognize common social engineering techniques used to exploit users
Apply fundamental hardening techniques to secure passwords, remote access, firewalls, and wireless networks
Requirements
o prior knowledge or experience necessary before you begin this course
It helps if you have some understanding of how computers work
Description
This course provides a clear and practical introduction to computer networking. Learners will explore how devices connect, communicate, and share data through different network types and layers. Topics include network components, media, addressing, protocols, and troubleshooting basics. By the end of the course, students will understand the essential building blocks that make modern IT and cybersecurity systems work.Key components of the course include:Explain key networking terms and concepts such as network services, protocols, ports, collisions, broadcasts, and packets.Describe how communication flows within computer networks from one device to another.Differentiate between basic networking equipment, including network interface cards (NICs), hubs, and routers.Identify common types of network media used to transmit data.Recognize the roles of MAC and IP addressing in identifying and connecting devices on a network.Explain the purpose of Wireshark and how it is used to capture and analyze network trafficDescribe how to install Wireshark and use Wireshark to capture and analyze packetsExplain the difference between circuit switching and packet switching and why packet switching is preferred in modern networksDescribe how protocols define communication rules and functions between networked devicesIdentify common protocol functions such as addressing, segmentation, sequencing, and flow controlExplain the purpose and structure of the OSI model and its seven layersCompare the OSI model to the TCP/IP model and describe how data moves through eachIdentify common types of end devices and explain their roles in a networkDescribe how intermediary devices such as switches, routers, and wireless access points manage and direct network trafficExplain concepts such as collision domains and broadcast domains in relation to network designRecognize the function of key network components including gateways, firewalls, and serversExplain the importance and impact of technologies such as IoT and BYOD in modern networking environmentsExplain the difference between physical and logical network topologiesIdentify common network topology types such as bus, star, ring, mesh, hybrid, and point-to-pointDescribe how network scale and structure vary across LANs, WANs, MANs, PANs, and other area networksExplain common cloud service models including SaaS, PaaS, and IaaSSet up a test network to run networking labsExplain the role of the Physical Layer (Layer 1) in the OSI modelIdentify common physical components such as NICs, cables, and connectorsDifferentiate between copper, fiber, and wireless transmission mediaDescribe key concepts including bandwidth, throughput, latency, and signal lossRecognize cable types, categories, and connector standards used in networkingExplain the role of the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) in the OSI modelIdentify common Layer 2 devices and protocols such as switches, Ethernet, and PPPDescribe how MAC addressing and ARP support local network communicationDifferentiate between half-duplex and full-duplex transmission and how collisions are managedExplain how switches learn, forward, and manage frames within a networkExplain the purpose and structure of IPv4 addressingIdentify different types of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses including unicast, broadcast, multicast, and private addressesDescribe how subnet masks and prefix lengths define networks and hostsExplain the role of the Network Layer (Layer 3) in the OSI modelDescribe how routers use IP addressing and routing tables to forward packets between networksDifferentiate between static and dynamic routing and explain the purpose of routing protocolsExplain how data moves across Layer 2 and Layer 3 devices within local and remote networksExplain the role of the Transport Layer (Layer 4) in the OSI modelDifferentiate between TCP and UDP and describe when each is usedDescribe how ports and sockets identify specific network services and connectionsExplain how the Transport Layer provides segmentation, sequencing, and flow controlIdentify common network services and their associated port numbersExplain the roles of the Application, Presentation, and Session layers in the OSI modelDifferentiate between client-server and peer-to-peer networking modelsIdentify common Application Layer protocols such as DNS, DHCP, HTTP/HTTPS, and email protocolsExplain the purpose of troubleshooting in network maintenanceIdentify common network issues that occur at Layer 1 and aboveUse basic troubleshooting tools such as ping, tracert, and command-line utilitiesDescribe how ICMP is used to test and verify network connectivityRecognize the role of monitoring and diagnostic software in maintaining network performanceExplain the importance of security in protecting network systems and dataIdentify common vulnerabilities and threat agents that impact network securityDescribe key security concepts including risk management and basic security principlesRecognize common social engineering techniques used to exploit usersApply fundamental hardening techniques to secure passwords, remote access, firewalls, and wireless networksWho Should Take this Course:Those getting into ITThose going after a certification inCompTIA Network+Cisco CCNAThose who need foundational knowledge in networkingWhy take the course from me?Experience: I've been in the IT world since 2000, have a masters in computers, and over 20 industry standard certificationsKnow how to Teach: I was trained as an instructor by the USAF, have a bachelors in education, teaching since 1997, and well over 6,000 hours of classroom instruction time.I've been a hiring manager since 2010, I know what skill sets employers are looking for.TechKnowSurge's Unique ApproachYour instructor has training and years of experience as an educator, as a technician, and as a leader. The course implements the following features:Microstep lectures and segmented videos that meters learning into bite size chunks. It also makes it easy to go back and review concepts when needed.Staged-Based Educational Model where information is covered multiple times in increasing amounts of complexity. The approach helps reinforce learning and creates a knowledge and skill set less likely to fade with time.Extensive coverage of topics to make sure topics are explained fullyWell-organized content. A tremendous amount of effort has been placed on what order content should be delivered to maximize learning and minimizing confusion.A focus on pedagogy. A funny name, but your instructor has a deep understanding of educational theory and what drives learning.Module overviews explaining what to expect for each module and sets a mindset for why the information is important to learn.Video intros, overviews, and summaries to explain the intention of each video, reinforce learning, and prepare you for success.High quality and engaging videos that use graphics, great explanations, and analogies to explain complex topics in an easy to understand way.Real world application. Step beyond just the theory. Your instructor has real world experience and will share that with you throughout the course.Employer insight, know what employers are looking for. Your instructor runs IT Departments and hires individuals just like youWelcome and Getting Started: Prepare yourself for efficiently and successfully completing the course. You'll get an overview of what the course is all about and what you should expect out of it.Networking Basics: This module introduces learners to the fundamental concepts of computer networking. It covers how data moves between devices, the roles of key networking components, and how addressing and media types enable communication across a network.Introduction to Wireshark: This module introduces Wireshark as a tool for observing and analyzing network traffic. Learners will explore how to install Wireshark, capture live data packets, and interpret network activity to better understand how communication occurs between devices.Protocols and Standards: We'll explore how data travels across networks by comparing circuit switching and packet switching, studying how protocols define communication, and examining key functions like addressing and segmentation. The module also introduces the OSI and TCP/IP models, showing how each layer contributes to reliable data transmission.Basic Networking Equipment: Learners discover the essential devices that make up a network and how each contributes to communication and traffic management. The module covers end devices, intermediary hardware, and critical components like gateways and firewalls, while also exploring modern trends such as IoT and BYOD that shape today's connected environments.Topologies and Concepts: We'll examine how networks are structured and organized, exploring both physical and logical topologies. The module introduces common topology types, network scales from LANs to WANs, and key cloud service models such as SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS that support modern network environments.Project: Building a Network: If you choose to do so, you can build and configure a small test network to support hands-on networking labs. Using basic equipment like routers, switches, and computers, we'll create a functional environment to explore connectivity, addressing, and communication concepts in action.Layer 1 - Physical: We'll explore the fundamentals of the Physical Layer and how it enables data transmission across a network. The module covers essential hardware components, media types, and performance factors like bandwidth and latency, while highlighting common cable categories and connector standards used in modern networking.Layer 2 - Data Link: Dive into the functions of the Data Link Layer and its role in enabling local network communication. The module covers Layer 2 devices, protocols, and addressing methods, explaining how switches use MAC addresses, duplex settings, and frame management to control traffic and reduce collisions.IP Addressing: Gain an understanding of how IP addressing organizes and identifies devices on a network. This module explores the structure and purpose of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, the different address types, and how subnet masks and prefixes define network boundaries and host ranges.Layer 3 - Network: Explore how the Network Layer manages data movement between networks using IP addressing and routing. The module explains how routers make forwarding decisions, compares static and dynamic routing methods, and illustrates how data travels through Layer 2 and Layer 3 devices across local and remote connections.Layer 4 - Transport: Examine how the Transport Layer ensures reliable data delivery and communication between devices. The module compares TCP and UDP, explores how ports and sockets identify services, and explains segmentation, sequencing, and flow control while introducing common network services and their port numbers.Application Layer: Explore the upper layers of the OSI model and how they support user applications and data exchange. The module covers client-server and peer-to-peer models, along with key protocols like DNS, DHCP, HTTP/HTTPS, and email services that enable everyday network communication.Troubleshooting and ICMP: Develop the skills to identify and resolve common network issues using structured troubleshooting methods. The module introduces key tools like ping and tracert, explains how ICMP verifies connectivity, and highlights the importance of monitoring software in maintaining reliable network performance.Security: Gain an understanding of core network security principles and how to protect systems from common threats. The module covers vulnerabilities, threat agents, and social engineering, while introducing essential hardening techniques to strengthen passwords, remote access, firewalls, and wireless networks.Wrap Up: Time to wrap up the course and provide any final thoughts.Instructor BioTechKnowSurge (Andrew Grimes) has been in the tech industry since 2000 and even longer as an Instructor. He started out as a Survival Instructor for the United States Air Force (USAF) in 1997. When he got out of the military, he started teaching computer classes. Wanting to advance his technical skills, he became a contractor working on a wide range of technologies while teaching technology college courses in the evening. Overtime, he became a hiring manager, director, and leaderHis background includes:Building a security program within 2 years to include becoming SOC 2 Type 2 compliantLeading and maximizing efficiency of IT, Security, and DevOps teamsManaging SaaS company infrastructure with millions of active usersManaging small, medium, and large IT InfrastructuresMigrating technologies to the cloudManaging multi-million dollar budgets and reducing overall budget spend year over yearUtilizing various project management techniques such as waterfall, scrum and Kanban to maximize efficiency and successBachelors in Workforce EducationMasters in Computer Resource and Information ManagementOver 6,000 hours of teaching experienceOver 20 industry standard certifications.Past student reviews:"Andrew is absolutely the best instructor I've had throughout the course of my education. He is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to all things network and IT-related. Because of the education he provided, I am now working in the network engineering field, and I could not have done it without his expert guidance." ~Michael B."Andrew was hands down my favorite instructor since enrolling" "He has great skills as an instructor, and I've learned a lot from his classes." ~Jeff S."As an instructor, he is thorough, articulate, patient and positive. He genuinely cares that his students fully comprehend the curriculum. I have a great deal of respect for Andrew. I can't recommend him highly enough." ~Dan H."I found Andrew to be one of the best Instructors" "He presents the information with real world applications, which helped to reinforce the concepts presented in the Cisco Certification track." "I am truely thankful to have had him as my teacher." ~Dan M."Andrew is very knowledgeable and brings his practical business experience with him. He expresses himself very well and treats everyone with respect. He explains very complicated concepts in a manner that is easy to understand." "It is without reservation that I would recommend Andrew as a business professional and/or teacher." ~Adam C."Andrew is an excellent instructor and more." "Andrew is the kind of teacher that you never forget." ~ William C."Andrew Grimes is a first rate instructor who genuinely cares about the success of his students. I was fortunate to have Andrew as my instructor." "I highly recommend Andrew as an instructor and IT professional." ~Paul C."Andrew is a great instructor who really cares whether his students grasp the concepts he teaches. He has a passion for teaching that many couldn't muster." ~Patrick R."He was a great teacher and I would gladly take a class under him again." ~Joshua R."...his style of teaching is accommodating for any level, that a student is starting off at, either beginning or advance in IT world." ~Paul W."He fosters a multidimensional environment of learning in which students of diverse abilities excel." ~Mark B"Andrew Grimes was a great Data Networks and Telecommunications Instructor." "I would highly recommend him to any who desires to further their education." ~ Tommy S.
Who this course is for
Those getting into IT
Those going after the CompTIA Network+ certification
Those going after theCisco CCNA certification
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