COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the course on IT Infrastructure & Network Essentials. This course is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in IT infrastructure and networking, equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and maintain the technological backbone of any organisation. By the end of this course, you will be well-prepared to design, implement, and troubleshoot IT networks, ensuring robust and secure communication systems within your organisation.
We begin with an introduction to IT infrastructure, where you will gain an overview of what IT infrastructure entails, understand its critical role in organisations, and explore the key components that make up IT infrastructure, such as hardware, software, networks, and data centres.
Networking fundamentals are the building blocks of IT infrastructure. This section covers the basics of networking, different types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN), and the essential networking protocols and standards that govern data transmission and communication.
Network topologies describe the arrangement of network components. You will learn about common network topologies like star, ring, mesh, and bus, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to apply these topologies in different scenarios to optimise network performance.
Network hardware includes the physical devices that enable network connectivity. This section covers network devices such as routers, switches, hubs, network interface cards (NICs), and the various types of cabling and connectors used to establish network connections.
IP addressing and subnetting are fundamental concepts for network configuration. You will explore the structure of IP addresses, the differences between IPv4 and IPv6, and the importance of subnetting in creating efficient and secure networks.
Network security is paramount in protecting data and resources. This section highlights the importance of network security, common threats and vulnerabilities, and various security measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption techniques to safeguard network integrity.
Wireless networking has become increasingly prevalent. You will learn the basics of wireless networks, the different wireless standards (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), and strategies for securing wireless networks against potential threats.
Network design and planning involve creating efficient and scalable networks. This section covers the steps involved in network design, key considerations for network planning, and the tools available for designing robust network architectures.
Network configuration is the process of setting up and managing network devices. You will learn how to configure network devices, set up IP addresses and DNS, and manage network configurations to ensure smooth and efficient network operations.
Network monitoring and troubleshooting are essential for maintaining network performance. This section covers the importance of network monitoring, common network issues and troubleshooting techniques, and the tools used to monitor and diagnose network problems.
Cloud computing and virtualisation are transforming IT infrastructure. You will explore the basics of cloud computing, the different types of cloud services (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), and the fundamentals of virtualisation, which enable the creation of virtual networks and services.
Data centre infrastructure is the backbone of IT operations. This section covers the components of a data centre, design and layout considerations, and best practices for managing data centre operations to ensure reliability and efficiency.
Disaster recovery and business continuity planning are critical for organisational resilience. You will learn the importance of disaster recovery, how to develop a disaster recovery plan, and strategies for business continuity planning to ensure organisational operations can continue during and after disruptions.
Emerging trends in IT infrastructure are shaping the future of networking. This section explores the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing, and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in networking, providing insights into the future of IT infrastructure.
Case studies and real-world applications provide practical insights into IT infrastructure and networking. You will analyse case studies of IT infrastructure in organisations, learn best practices in network implementation, and explore lessons learned from network failures to apply these insights to your own network management practices.
By the end of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of IT infrastructure and network essentials, enabling you to effectively design, implement, and manage robust and secure networks that support organisational success.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to IT Infrastructure
- Overview of IT Infrastructure
- Importance and Role in Organisations
- Key Components of IT Infrastructure
2. Networking Fundamentals
- Basics of Networking
- Types of Networks
- Networking Protocols and Standards
3. Network Topologies
- Common Network Topologies
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Topology
- Application of Network Topologies in Different Scenarios
4. Network Hardware
- Network Devices
- Network Interface Cards (NICs)
- Cabling and Connectors
5. IP Addressing and Subnetting
- Understanding IP Addresses
- IPv4 vs. IPv6
- Subnetting and its Importance
6. Network Security
- Importance of Network Security
- Common Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Network Security Measures
7. Wireless Networking
- Basics of Wireless Networks
- Wireless Standards
- Securing Wireless Networks
8. Network Design and Planning
- Steps in Network Design
- Considerations for Network Planning
- Tools for Network Design
9. Network Configuration
- Configuring Network Devices
- Setting up IP Addresses and DNS
- Network Configuration Management
10. Network Monitoring and Troubleshooting
- Importance of Network Monitoring
- Common Network Issues and Troubleshooting Techniques
- Tools for Network Monitoring
11. Cloud Computing and Virtualisation
- Introduction to Cloud Computing
- Types of Cloud Services
- Basics of Virtualisation
12. Data Centre Infrastructure
- Components of a Data Centre
- Data Centre Design and Layout
- Managing Data Centre Operations
13. Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity
- Importance of Disaster Recovery
- Developing a Disaster Recovery Plan
- Business Continuity Planning
14. Emerging Trends in IT Infrastructure
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Edge Computing
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Networking
15. Case Studies and Real-World Applications
- Case Study Analysis of IT Infrastructure in Organisations
- Best Practices in Network Implementation
- Lessons Learned from Network Failures
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.