Here’s a detailed outline that will take you from a beginner level to achieving a CompTIA Network+ certification. It’s organized into modules that mirror CompTIA’s objectives, with a practical focus to build hands-on skills and my hands on knowledge. Each lesson will be a video that I’ll release as I make them.
Lesson Outline for CompTIA Network+ Certification
Module 1: Introduction to Networking Basics
- Lesson 1.1: Understanding Network Fundamentals
- Introduction to networking concepts (LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN, etc.)
- Overview of the OSI and TCP/IP models
- Key networking terms and definitions
- Lesson 1.2: Hardware and Cabling Basics
- Types of network cables (Ethernet, fiber optics, coaxial)
- Physical network topologies and their advantages/disadvantages
- Overview of networking hardware: routers, switches, hubs, modems
Module 2: Network Protocols and Standards
- Lesson 2.1: Common Protocols and Ports
- Detailed study of TCP/IP, UDP, and common ports (e.g., HTTP, FTP, SMTP)
- IP addressing and subnetting basics
- Introduction to IPv4 vs. IPv6
- Lesson 2.2: Network Services
- DNS, DHCP, NAT, SNMP, and their roles in a network
- Practical lab: Configuring a basic DHCP server
- Introduction to VPNs and tunneling protocols (L2TP, PPTP, IPsec)
Module 3: Network Infrastructure and Device Configuration
- Lesson 3.1: Configuring Network Devices
- Setting up and configuring routers, switches, and firewalls
- VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, and network segmentation
- Lab: Configuring VLANs on a network switch
- Lesson 3.2: Network Topologies and Types
- Logical vs. physical topologies (star, mesh, hybrid)
- Introduction to wireless topologies and standards (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)
- Lab: Setting up a small wireless network
Module 4: IP Addressing and Subnetting
- Lesson 4.1: Understanding IP Addressing
- Binary, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems
- Calculating IP address ranges and subnet masks
- Lesson 4.2: Subnetting Techniques and Tools
- Subnetting by hand and using tools (e.g., subnet calculators)
- Lab: Practice subnetting for various network sizes
- IPv6 addressing basics and transition mechanisms
Module 5: Network Security Essentials
- Lesson 5.1: Basic Security Concepts
- CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)
- Introduction to network security protocols (SSL, TLS, HTTPS)
- Lesson 5.2: Securing Network Devices
- Access control, authentication, and authorization basics
- Common threats and vulnerabilities (DoS, MITM attacks, malware)
- Lab: Configuring firewalls and security policies
Module 6: Network Troubleshooting Techniques
- Lesson 6.1: Troubleshooting Methodologies
- OSI model for troubleshooting
- Basic troubleshooting steps and tools (ping, traceroute, ipconfig, etc.)
- Lesson 6.2: Advanced Troubleshooting Scenarios
- Troubleshooting connectivity and configuration issues
- Lab: Diagnosing and resolving real-world network issues
Module 7: Network Management and Monitoring
- Lesson 7.1: Network Management Concepts
- SNMP, Syslog, and other monitoring tools
- Performance monitoring and logging
- Lab: Setting up basic network monitoring with open-source tools
- Lesson 7.2: Configuration Management and Documentation
- Network documentation best practices
- Change management and network automation basics
Module 8: Preparing for the Network+ Exam
- Lesson 8.1: Reviewing Key Concepts
- Focus on weak areas with practice questions and labs
- Group study sessions and exam practice
- Lesson 8.2: Exam Strategies and Final Review
- Exam-taking tips, managing time, and handling difficult questions
- Final practice test simulation