Network Technology Associate teaches essential networking technologies and skills, including TCP/IP, stable network creation, wireless networking, mobile devices and network troubleshooting. You will learn to use various network components and protocols that enable users to share data quickly and easily. You will explore the different types of transmission media, and you will learn how network architecture and topologies provide for efficient and secure communication. In addition, you will learn about the OSI reference model and its relationship to packet creation, and you will compare and contrast the OSI model with the Internet architecture model.
You will study the functions, features and technologies associated with Internet services, such as cloud computing. You will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), the growing trend of employees bringing their personal mobile devices to work. BYOD policies and enforcement strategies will also be covered.

You will learn about the benefits of implementing a Content Management System (CMS). You will also achieve competency in performing basic hardware and operating system maintenance procedures. In addition, you will study mobile computing devices and mobile operating systems.

You will also learn about the importance of routing, and you will explore IP addressing, IP address classes and subnet masks. Finally, you will explore essential network security concepts, Internet-based challenges facing today’s users, and methods you can use to secure networks and network transmissions, including authentication, encryption and firewalls.

All students preparing to enter or continue in the workforce can benefit from the CIW Network Technology Associate course and/or certification:

• High school students
• College students
• Technical/trade school students

Professionals in all industries can benefit from the CIW Network Technology Associate course and/or certification:

• IT professionals
• Healthcare professionals
• Legal professionals
• Marketing professionals
• Graphic artists
• Business professionals

Understand the common core of Internet knowledge, and apply the foundation skills required for further specialization.  

No prior experience using the Internet, developing Web pages or configuring networks is necessary. However, students should be familiar with an operating system such as Microsoft Windows 7 before taking this course. The CIW Web Foundations courseware does not provide entry-level computer literacy. Rather, it builds upon computer literacy training and certifications such as Microsoft Office Specialist

Introduction to Networking

Overview of Networks and Protocols
Telephony and Convergence Networking
Networking Evolution
Client/Server Model
Network Operations Center (NOC)
Networking Categories
Network Topologies
Network Operating System
Microsoft Windows Servers
UNIX/Linux
The Need for Protocols
OSI Reference Model
Data Encapsulation Packets
OSI/RM Protocol Examples
Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
Binding Protocols
Local Area Network (LAN)
Wide Area Network (WAN)
Internet Exchange Point (IXP)

Networking Components and Standards

Overview of Networking Components
Common Network Components
Transmission Media
Wireless Network Technologies
Transmission Types
IEEE LAN Standards
Carrier Systems
Virtualization

Connecting to the Internet

Introduction to Connecting to the Internet
Mobile Computing
Mobile Devices and Cloud Computing
Configuring a Wireless Network
Fourth-Generation (4G) Wireless
TCP/IP
Internet Architecture
Internet Protocols
Demultiplexing
Introduction to Routing
Routing Protocols
Port Numbers
Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4)
Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6)
Configuring TCP/IP
Diagnostic Tools for Internet
Troubleshooting

Internet Services

Overview of Internet Services
Cloud Services
Real-World Case Study: Internet Servers
Choosing Web Server Products
Content Management System (CMS)

Hardware and Device Connectivity

Introduction to Hardware and Device Connectivity
Motherboard
Storage Devices
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Optical Discs
Device Connectivity
System Management
Preventive Maintenance
Software Troubleshooting

Network and Cloud Security Risks

Importance of Network Security
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Real-World Case Study
Cloud Security Threats
Cloud Disaster Recovery
Malware (Malicious Software)
Overview of Network Attack Types
Defeating Network Attacks
Authentication
Encryption
Firewalls
Security Zones
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Security Audit
Other Security Threats