• Online, Self-Paced

Network architecture is the complete framework of a computer network. Explore architectural concepts, including wired and wireless topologies, network types, technologies facilitating the Internet of Things (IoT), and wireless technologies.

Learning Objectives

Network Topologies

  • start the course
  • recognize the characteristics and differences of logical and physical, start, ring, mesh, and bus topologies
  • list the main characteristics of the ad hoc and infrastructure wireless topologies
  • recognize the features and benefits of using LAN, WLAN, MAN, WAN, CAN, and SAN
  • describe technologies that facilitate the Internet of Things, such as Z-Wave, ANT, Bluetooth, NFC, IR, RFID, and 802.11

Practice: Wired and Wireless Topologies

  • list the various wired and wireless topologies

Wireless Technologies

  • identify scenarios in which to implement 802.11 standards, including a, b, g, n, and ac
  • identify scenarios in which to implement cellular technologies, such as GSM, TDMA, and CDMA
  • provide scenarios in which to configure frequencies, such as 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz
  • list the various speed and distance requirements for wireless technologies, based on given scenarios
  • provide a scenario and configure channel bandwidth
  • provide a scenario and configure channel bonding
  • provide scenarios on when and how to configure MIMO/MU-MIMO
  • use unidirectional and omnidirectional antennas, given a certain scenario
  • provide a scenario and configure a wireless site survey

Practice: Configuring Wireless Standards

  • configure wireless standards such as a, b, g, n, and ac

Framework Connections