Basic Data Communications

Learn the Answers to Key Questions!

Basic Data Communications has been written to teach you the structure of of computer networks, how they operate and the integral role they play in today's office environment. These are fundamental concepts since voice, data and image-based information is transmitted within offices, from site to site and throughout the world.

This comprehensive 14 hour course consists of 10 easy to understand modules. Each module is designed to increase your technical knowledge of key communication terms, transmission technologies, types of network hardware and software, basic tools of network management, security issues, the importance of the Internet and emerging technologies.


Course Contents

Module 1 - Information Fundamentals

We will examine the importance of networks in today's businesses. Topics include:

Module 2 - Data Communications

Learn how the orderly transfer of data occurs between your PC and the local area network.

  • Getting information from the PC to the LAN and to the WAN
  • Protocols: What and Why
  • Connection-Oriented Protocols
  • Connectionless Protocols
  • Data Interfaces
  • Transmission Modes
  • Interfaces
  • Transmission Methods
  • Error Detection
  • Data Compression Techniques

Module 3 - Data Communication Methods

This module will cover all the key aspects that encompass a successful business network.

  • The OSI Model
  • The TCP/IP Model
  • Physical Circuits and Interfaces
  • Network Topologies
  • LAN Media Access Control (MAC)
  • WAN Access Control
  • Media Access Equipment
  • Network Interface Card (NIC)
  • Data Circuit Terminating Equipment (DCE)

Module 4 - The Local Area Network (LAN)

LANs have evolved into a crucial component of even the smallest business enterprise. We will cover the functions, technical capabilities and options in today's local area networks.

  • Evolution of LANs
  • Ethernet CSMA/CD (IEEE 802.3)
  • Token Ring (IEEE 802.5)
  • Logical Link Control (IEEE 802.2 LLC)
  • 100 Mbps Alternatives
    • 100Mbps Ethernet
    • 100BaseT

Module 5 - Wide Area Network (WAN) Circuits and Equipment

This unit will focus on transmitting voice, video and data to other LANs and the Internet.

  • WAN Applications and Uses
  • WAN Infrastructure
    • Public and private networks
  • Switched and Leased Lines
  • WAN Access Lines and transport Line Services
  • WAN Equipment
    • Modems
    • DSUs and CSUs
    • Multiplexers
    • Inverse multiplexers

Module 6 - Basic and Enhanced WAN Services

This section will concentrate on the WAN services available to businesses from common carriers and network providers.

  • Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
    • Basic Rate Interface (BRI)
    • Primary Rate Interface (PRI)
  • SONET
  • Frame Relay
  • ATM

Module 7 - The Internet

We will review, in survey fashion, the business opportunities and implications on the Internet.

  • Internet Structure
  • Internet Addressing
  • IP Version 4 Addressing
  • Internet Applications
  • Intranets
  • Extranets

Module 8 - Interntworking

This module will focus on the equipment and technologies involved in connecting LANs to LANs and LANs to WANs. These components include:

  • Internetworking Devices
    • Repeaters
    • Hubs
    • Bridges
    • Routers
    • Switches
    • Gateways
  • Routed Protocols/Routing Protocols
  • Interconnecting LANs
  • Interconnecting WANs

Module 9 - Optimizing Network Performance

Maximize performance of network resources through design, management and security.

  • Network Design Considerations
  • Network Installation Considerations
  • Network Monitoring Equipment and Firewalls
  • Network Management SNMP

Module 10 - Emerging Technologies

Looking forward, we will examine the new technologies available to businesses today and into the new millennium.

  • xDSL Technologies
  • Satellite Technology
  • Satellite Networks
  • Wireless Networks
  • Voice Over IP (VoIP)


Recommended Background

Actually, there are no prerequisites for this course, since it has been developed to serve as a fine starting point for MIS students and professionals who need an overall understanding of communication systems and networks. Non-technical students, managers, technical support staff and anyone whose productivity would be improved through a comprehensive overview of information networks, terms, concepts and applications.

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