Network Fundamentals & Switching
This course covers foundational Ethernet networking concepts and switch configuration as applied to a data center leaf-spine environment, aligned to the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam objectives. Students configure VLANs, trunking, and spanning-tree protocol on managed switches, subnet IPv4 addresses, apply basic access-control lists, and use protocol analyzers to troubleshoot Layer 2 and Layer 3 connectivity faults. Topics include the OSI and TCP/IP models, common network topologies, routing fundamentals, wireless networking basics, network security concepts, and structured troubleshooting methodology. Laboratory sessions use the Atom Lab Bench's Linux/AI workstations and managed switch hardware to build and troubleshoot a small leaf-spine emulation, culminating in a practical exercise diagnosing a multi-fault network scenario within a fixed time limit. This course prepares students for the CompTIA Network+ certification examination and establishes the networking foundation required before AI fabric-specific coursework.
What you'll be able to do
- Subnet an IPv4 address block to meet a stated host-count requirement for multiple subnets.
- Configure VLANs and 802.1Q trunking between two managed switches.
- Configure Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to prevent a Layer 2 loop in a redundantly cabled switch topology.
- Apply a basic access control list (ACL) to restrict traffic between two network segments per a stated security policy.
- Capture and analyze network traffic using a protocol analyzer to identify a specific communication or configuration fault.
- Apply a structured network troubleshooting methodology to isolate a connectivity fault to a specific OSI layer.
- Configure basic static and dynamic routing between two network segments.
- Identify the appropriate network topology and cabling approach for a stated data-center or campus scenario.
- Configure and verify basic wireless network security settings on an access point.
- Complete a CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) full-length practice examination covering all 5 published domains.
Train the team that runs the factory.
The Institute travels with every SAVRN campus.