3.0 COMPUTER NETWORKS AND COMMUNICATIONS

3.1 Basic Concepts of Computer Networks and Communications

3.1.1 Definition

3.1.1.1 Define computer networks.
3.1.1.2 Define communications.

3.1.2 Importance of Computer Network
3.1.2.1State the importance of computer networks and communications.

3.1.3 Types of Networks

3.1.3.1 Define types of computer networks:
• Local Area Network (LAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Wide Area Network (WAN)
3.1.3.2 Differentiate between the three types of computer networks.

3.1.4 Network Architecture
3.1.4.1 Define two types of network architecture:

• Client/Server
• Peer-to-Peer


3.1.5 Network Topology

3.1.5.1 State three types of network topologies:
• bus
• ring
• star
3.1.5.2 Differentiate between the three types of network topology.


3.1.6 Protocol
3.1.6.1 Define Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) as a protocol to facilitate
communication over computer network.

3.1.7 Internet, Intranet, Extranet
3.1.7.1 Describe the types of network communications technology:
• Internet
• Intranet
• Extranet


3.2 Hardware Requirements

3.2.1 Devices
3.2.1.1 Identify the devices needed in computer network communication :
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Wireless Network Interface Card
• Modem (internal and external)
• Hub / Switch
• Router
• Wireless Access Point
3.2.1.2 State the functions of the following:
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Wireless Network Interface Card
• Modem (internal and external)
• Hub / Switch
• Router
• Wireless Access Point


3.2.2 Medium

3.2.2.1 Identify various types of cables such as Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP), Shielded Twisted
Pair (STP), Coaxial and Fibre Optic Cable.


3.2.2.2 Identify various types of wireless transmission media such as infrared, radio wave and satellite.


3.3 Software Requirements

3.3.1 Server Software
3.3.1.1 Define Network Operating System.

3.3.1.2 Name various Network Operating System Software.

3.3.2 Client Software
3.3.2.1 State the functions of various client software.


3.4 Setting Network Facilities




3.4.1 Installation of Network Interface Cards (NIC)



3.4.1.1 Insert network interface cards (NIC).

3.4.1.2Install drivers for the NIC.



3.4.2 Cable Crimping and Testing
3.4.2.1Crimp and test UTP cable
• Straight cable
• Crossed cable

3.4.2.2 Create awareness of the correct way when
crimping a cable.

3.4.3 Configuration and Testing of Network

3.4.3.1 Configure the workstation to join a Local Area Network :

• Internet Protocol (IP) Address

• Subnet Mask

• Server name


3.4.3.2 Test the network connection.


3.4.4 Share Data

3.4.4.1 Create a shared folder.

3.5.1 Latest Development In Network and Communications
3.5.1.1 Describe
• Mobile Computing (specifications, services, frequencies)
• Internet Technology and Services (VOIP, BLOG)
• Types of network (examples: PAN, VPN, WLAN, WIMAX)