Network Engineer Notes (Detailed Topics)
1. Introduction to Networking
Networking refers to the practice of connecting computers and other devices together to share
resources. A network can be as simple as two computers connected together or as complex as the
internet.
Key terms:
- Nodes: Devices on the network
- Protocols: Rules for communication
- LAN, WAN, MAN: Types of networks
- Topologies: Star, Bus, Ring, Mesh
2. OSI and TCP/IP Models
The OSI model has 7 layers:
1. Physical
2. Data Link
3. Network
4. Transport
5. Session
6. Presentation
7. Application
TCP/IP Model:
1. Network Interface
2. Internet
3. Transport
4. Application
Purpose: These models help understand and troubleshoot data transmission.
3. IP Addressing and Subnetting
IP address: A unique identifier for a device on a network.
- IPv4: 32-bit (e.g., 192.168.1.1)
- IPv6: 128-bit (e.g., 2001:0db8:...)
Subnetting: Dividing a network into smaller sub-networks.
- Helps manage traffic and increase security.
- Example: 192.168.1.0/24 has 256 addresses (0-255).
4. Network Devices
Common network devices:
- Router: Connects different networks, routes data
- Switch: Connects devices in the same network
- Hub: Broadcasts data to all ports
- Modem: Connects to the Internet
- Access Point: Extends wireless coverage
5. VLANs and Trunking
VLAN (Virtual LAN): Logical division of a network.
- Devices on same VLAN can communicate even if not physically connected.
Trunking: Allows multiple VLANs to be carried over a single network link using tagging protocols like
802.1Q.
6. Routing and Switching Basics
Routing: Process of selecting a path for traffic in a network.
- Types: Static, Dynamic (e.g., RIP, OSPF)
Switching: Data is forwarded based on MAC address.
- Switches learn MAC addresses and create a MAC table for fast switching.
7. DHCP, DNS, NAT
DHCP: Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices.
DNS: Resolves domain names to IP addresses.
NAT: Allows private IP addresses to access the internet using a public IP address.
- Common in home routers.
8. Network Security Basics
Basic security measures:
- Firewalls: Block unauthorized access
- Access Control Lists (ACLs)
- Encryption: Protects data during transmission
- VPNs: Secure remote access
- Secure protocols: HTTPS, SSH
9. Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi standards: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax
- Frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Security:
- WPA2, WPA3
- SSID hiding
- MAC filtering
Tools: Wireless controllers, range extenders
10. Network Troubleshooting
Common tools:
- ping: Checks if a host is reachable
- traceroute: Traces the path packets take
- ipconfig/ifconfig: View network config
- nslookup/dig: DNS troubleshooting
- telnet/SSH: Remote access and testing
