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3
Introduction
The Networking Fundamentals textbook is
benefi cial to anyone wishing to pursue a career
in information technology. It provides the skills
and basic knowledge required before pursuing
studies in specifi c networking fi elds, such as
network administration, network design, and the
support of specifi c network operating systems.
This textbook and the accompanying Laboratory
Manual and Study Guide meet all the required
knowledge for the CompTIA Network+
Certifi cation exam and provide the basic skills
and knowledge needed to successfully enter the
fi eld of networking.
While many books on the market prepare
students to pass the Network+ Certifi cation exam,
they do not take the time to explain in detail how
the various network technologies work. You may
be prepared for the exam, but lack the technical
foundation to understand the networking
technologies underlying everyday operations. In
contrast, the Networking Fundamentals textbook
contains detailed explanations about concepts,
rather than just presentations of key points and
specifi cations.
Many concepts may seem confusing or
incomplete when fi rst presented. As you progress
through the textbook, you will learn other
knowledge that will help you grasp previously
presented concepts. This is why it is imperative
that you constantly review previously learned
subjects. Many of the concepts covered in early
chapters will not become completely clear until
later in the textbook. For example, throughout the
textbook, references are made to protocols and the
OSI model. These concepts are diffi cult to fully
master until other concepts are presented and
learned. Later in the textbook, an entire chapter
is devoted to the OSI model and how it is directly
related to protocols and equipment. Learning
and reviewing the material presented should be a
continuous process.
Be sure to visit the recommended Web
sites and perform the Suggested Laboratory
Activities. A Laboratory Manual and a Study
Guide have been designed to accompany
this textbook. I strongly recommend that you
complete all laboratory and study guide activities.
The Laboratory Manual will provide you with a
guided opportunity to perform many of the jobs
required in a typical network setting. The Study
Guide will provide you with a valuable means
of review and practice essential for mastery
of basic network knowledge and skills. By
completing all activities and related class work,
your opportunity for success on the Network+
Certifi cation exam and in the workplace will be
greatly enhanced.
I want to take this opportunity to wish you
success in your future.
Sincerely,
Richard Roberts
The Author
For the past 45 years, Richard Roberts
has been designing curriculum, teaching
Electricity and Electronics as well as Computer
Technology, and supervising technical teachers.
Mr. Roberts is an accomplished programmer
and computer technician. He has experience as
the system administrator for Novell NetWare,
Microsoft NT, and IBM Token Ring networking
systems. He possesses a Bachelor’s degree in
Technical Education and a Master’s degree in
Administration/Supervision. He also has current
CompTIA A+, Network+, and iNet+ certifi cations.