Networking Fundamentals & TCP/IP

Overview

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This course covers the foundational networking concepts and TCP/IP protocols required for the CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam, including how data moves across networks and how operating systems connect to and communicate over those networks. Learners benefit from understanding Ethernet, MAC addressing, IP addressing, subnetting, and the suite of TCP/IP protocols that underpin modern networking — plus the practical OS-level tools used to configure connections and troubleshoot network problems. Hands-on online labs provide experience with real network configuration and diagnostic tasks.

Syllabus

Essentials of Networking

This chapter introduces the fundamentals of local networking and the role of LANs, along with the basics of hexadecimal notation used throughout IT.

TCP/IP Basics

This chapter explains how TCP/IP addressing, subnetting, special IP ranges, NAT, DHCP, and connection‑monitoring tools work together to enable reliable communication across networks.

OS Networking and Network Troubleshooting

This chapter explores how networks identify, name, secure, and manage devices—covering DNS, Windows naming, Workgroups and Domains, router configuration, firewalls, port forwarding, and VLANs to build and protect functional SOHO networks.