Network and Server Fundamentals

This unit builds foundational skills in network architecture, addressing, and core server administration across Windows and Linux platforms. Students will learn to deploy and manage common network services (DNS, DHCP, web, mail), identity and access controls, remote management tools, and basic security practices while evaluating cloud and collaboration options.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze network models, addressing schemes, and device roles by applying the OSI and TCP/IP frameworks to classify IP addresses, subnetting, routing functions, and common topologies
• Apply server and service administration techniques to install and configure Windows and Linux servers, create and manage user accounts and shares, enable Group Policy/PowerShell automation, and deploy DNS, DHCP, web (Apache), and mail (Postfix/Exchange) services
• Demonstrate security and risk mitigation practices by implementing password policies, firewall basics, mobile device protections, spam identification measures, and disaster-impact considerations for networked systems
• Evaluate cloud vs. on-premises and collaboration solutions by comparing trade-offs for Office 365/Teams, licensing approaches, remote access strategies (RDP, SSH), and recommending appropriate deployment options