CIS 233 - Network+

Description
This course provides an introduction to networking concepts, preparing students for careers in IT networking and the CompTIA Network+ certification exam. Students will explore key topics, including network architecture, protocols, hardware, virtualization, security, and troubleshooting. Hands-on labs, real-world scenarios, and practice exams build practical skills for designing, managing, and securing wired and wireless networks. Emphasis is placed on networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, LANs, WANs), configuring devices like switches and routers, implementing security measures, and troubleshooting network issues using modern tools.

This course prepares students to take the CompTIA’s Network+ certification exam.

Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
Prerequisites/Other Requirements: None
English Prerequisite(s): None
Math Prerequisite(s): None
Course Corequisite(s): None
Academic Program Prerequisite: None
Consent to Enroll in Course: No Department Consent Required
Dual Enrollment Allowed?: Yes
Number of Times Course can be taken for credit: 1
Programs Where This Course is a Requirement:
Network Administration, A.A.A.S.

Other Courses Where This Course is a Prerequisite: CIS237; E275
Other Courses Where this Course is a Corequisite: None
Other Courses Where This course is included in within the Description: None

General Education Requirement:
None
General Education Learner Outcomes (GELO):
NA
Course Learning Outcomes:

Explain the purpose and functions of key networking concepts, including the OSI and TCP/IP models, protocols, and topologies.
Configure and manage network devices such as routers, switches, and wireless access points to establish functional network connections.
Diagnose and troubleshoot network performance and connectivity issues using diagnostic tools and systematic methodologies.
Assess potential security risks and select appropriate measures to safeguard network infrastructure, such as firewalls, encryption, and authentication mechanisms.
Design scalable and secure networks that meet organizational needs by incorporating virtualization, cloud services, and modern technologies.
Describe the principles of IP addressing, including subnetting, IPv4, and IPv6, and their roles in network communication.
Implement and test network services such as DNS, DHCP, and NAT to ensure proper functionality and support for client systems.

Course Outline:
I. Introduction to Networks

Define types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN, and WLAN.
Understand the role of networking standards and protocols.

II. The OSI Model

Examine the functions of the OSI model’s seven layers.
Compare the OSI model to the TCP/IP model.

III. Networking Hardware

Explore the functions and configuration of switches, routers, and access points.
Understand cabling types, connectors, and transmission media.

IV. IP Addressing and Subnetting

Explain IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes.
Learn subnetting concepts and methods for network segmentation.

V. Network Protocols and Services

Study key protocols: TCP, UDP, DNS, DHCP, and NAT.
Understand the purpose of port numbers and services.

VI. Wireless Networking

Review wireless standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 6) and frequencies.
Discuss wireless security protocols and best practices.

VII. Network Security Fundamentals

Identify common security threats, including malware and phishing.
Learn security tools and techniques, such as firewalls and encryption.

VIII. Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Understand the principles of virtualization and virtual networks.
Explore cloud computing models: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS.

IX. Network Design and Documentation

Learn the process of network planning and creating diagrams.
Document network configurations and topologies.

X. Network Troubleshooting and Tools

Use diagnostic tools like ping, traceroute, and Wireshark.
Develop systematic approaches to resolve connectivity and performance issues.

Approved for Online and Hybrid Delivery?:
Yes
Instructional Strategies:
Lecture: 30-40%

Lab work: 30-40%

Facilitated discussion/group work: 20-30%
Mandatory Course Components:
Quizzes

Lab / homework assignments

Midterm and Final Exam
Equivalent Courses:
None

Accepted GRCC Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Credit: None
AP Min. Score: NA
Name of Industry Recognize Credentials: CompTIA’s Network + Certification

Course prepares students to seek the following external certification:
Yes
Course-Specific Placement Test: None
Course Aligned with ARW/IRW Pairing: N/A

Mandatory Department Assessment Measures:
None

Course Type:
Program Requirement- Offering designed to meet the learning needs of students in a specific GRCC program.
Course Format:
Lecture - 1:1
Total Lecture Hours Per Week: 3
People Soft Course ID Number: 104615
Course CIP Code: 11.9999
Maximum Course Enrollment: 24
High School Articulation Agreements exist?: Yes
If yes, with which high schools?: Careerline Tech Center, Kent Career Technical Center
Non-Credit GRCC Articulation Agreement With What Area: Job Training
Identify the Non Credit Programs this Course is Accepted: Computer Support Technician

School: School of STEM
Department: Computer Information Systems
Discipline: CIS
First Term Valid: Fall 2019 (8/1/2019)
1st Catalog Year: 2019-2020
Faculty Credential Requirements:
Master’s Degree (GRCC general requirement), Professionally qualified through work experience in field (Perkins Act or Other) (list below)
Faculty Credential Requirement Details:
The instructor must possess knowledge of the current operating environment, 4000 hours of networking experience, knowledge of OS and NOS, a good background in Network+, and be able to clearly explain all topics covered in the course so that the student will be able to understand the concepts taught.

Major Course Revisions: N/A
Last Revision Date Effective: 20250224T19:33:43
Course Review & Revision Year: 2029-2030