Summary

In this chapter, you learned about a broad variety of networking topics. This chapter has everything you need to get you ready for the networking questions on the A+ 220-801 exam. At the same time, the A+ exam (and consequently this chapter) barely scratches the surface of the things you can learn about networking. If making computers talk to each other effectively is an area of interest to you, we suggest you consider studying for the CompTIA Network+ exam after you pass your A+ tests.

First, we started with networking fundamentals. A lot of the discussion of fundamentals was about understanding the concepts behind networking so you know how to set them up. Topics included LANs versus WANs; clients, servers, and resources; network operating systems; peer-to-peer and server-based resource models; network topologies such as bus, star, and ring; and theoretical networking models and standards, such as the OSI model and IEEE standards.

Next, you learned about hardware devices used in networking. Each computer needs a network adapter (NIC) of some sort to connect to the network. On a wired network, cables are required, and there are several different types, including coaxial, STP, UTP, and fiber-optic. Each cable type has its own specific connector.

Finally, we discussed various types of network connectivity hardware and auxiliary devices and what they’re used for. Some users may need a modem or access point to get on to your network. All wired computers will plug into a connectivity device such as a hub or a switch, which in turn is connected to another connectivity device, which may be a bridge or a router. Other devices on your network provide additional services. A NAS device is like a dedicated file server. Firewalls protect your network from intruders. VoIP phones and Internet appliances give end users additional devices for communicating with others.