CompTIA Network+

To get the most out of this course, students will need a personal laptop or PC for practical exercises and networking simulations. No prior networking experience is required, although a basic understanding of computer systems and operating systems will be beneficial.

Learners should be comfortable using computers, installing software, and navigating common operating system environments. Throughout the course, students will progressively build the technical skills required to understand, configure, secure, and troubleshoot modern network environments.

Week 1: Network Foundations and Communication Models

This part of the course introduces the fundamental concepts of networking and explains how devices communicate across networks. It covers the OSI and TCP/IP models and demonstrates how data is encapsulated and transmitted between network layers. Learners explore the purpose of networking protocols and gain an understanding of how modern communication systems operate within organisations and across the internet.

Week 2: Network Topologies and Cabling Infrastructure

This part of the course introduces essential network layouts and cabling technologies used in modern networks. It covers network topologies, architectures, and network types. Learners explore coaxial cabling, twisted-pair cabling standards, fibre optic technologies, and structured cabling systems. It also examines fire safety ratings such as plenum and non-plenum cabling and their role in professional network installations.

Week 3: Ethernet Fundamentals

This part of the course introduces Ethernet technologies and their role in local area networks. It covers Ethernet frames, media access methods, network segmentation, and switching fundamentals. Learners gain practical knowledge of how devices communicate within Ethernet networks and explore common network topologies used in business environments. The module also introduces basic troubleshooting techniques for Ethernet connectivity issues.

Week 4: Ethernet Standards and Network Media

This part of the course focuses on Ethernet standards and transmission technologies. It covers Ethernet speeds, transceivers, network media options, and compatibility requirements. Learners explore the evolution of Ethernet technologies and understand how network performance is influenced by standards and infrastructure choices. Practical troubleshooting scenarios are included to identify and resolve common cabling and switching issues.

Week 5: Installing Physical Network Infrastructure

This part of the course provides a practical introduction to structured cabling installations. It covers network racks, patch panels, cable management, installation tools, and industry best practices. Learners gain hands-on experience with cable testing procedures and learn how to verify network connectivity. Troubleshooting techniques are introduced to identify and resolve physical network installation problems.

Week 6: Switching and Local Area Networks

This part of the course introduces network switches and their role in modern networks. It covers MAC addressing, switching operations, VLAN concepts, and traffic management. Learners explore how switches improve network performance and support network segmentation. Practical exercises demonstrate how switching technologies are used to build scalable and efficient local area networks.

Week 7: Routing and Wide Area Networks

This part of the course introduces routing concepts and explains how data is transferred between different networks. It covers IP addressing, subnetting, routing principles, and network gateways. Learners gain an understanding of how routers make forwarding decisions and how wide area networks connect geographically distributed locations. Basic routing configuration and troubleshooting concepts are also explored.

Week 8: Wireless Networking Technologies

This part of the course introduces wireless networking and the technologies that support mobile connectivity. It covers wireless standards, wireless network design, access points, frequency bands, and signal management. Learners explore the differences between wired and wireless environments and gain an understanding of how wireless networks are implemented and maintained in modern organisations.

Week 9: Network Security and Hardening

This part of the course focuses on network security fundamentals and network hardening techniques. It covers firewalls, access control mechanisms, wireless security protocols, network monitoring, and threat mitigation strategies. Learners explore common network vulnerabilities and learn practical approaches for securing infrastructure against attacks and unauthorized access.

Week 10: Final Project Completion and Presentation

This part of the course focuses on the design, implementation, and presentation of a complete networking solution. Learners apply networking concepts, cabling standards, switching, routing, wireless networking, and security controls to create a practical network infrastructure project. The course concludes with project documentation, testing procedures, presentation skills, and discussion of networking career pathways.

Learners will be evaluated through two core examinations aligned with the networking curriculum. The examinations are designed to assess learners’ ability to plan, implement, secure, troubleshoot, and document network infrastructures in accordance with industry standards and best practices. Together, the assessments provide evidence of both foundational networking competencies and advanced network design and security skills.

Core Examination 1 – Network Infrastructure Design and Installation Project

• Design and document a small network infrastructure installation.
• Develop network topology diagrams and implementation plans.
• Select appropriate network media and structured cabling solutions.
• Apply Ethernet standards and network connectivity requirements.
• Demonstrate cable installation, testing, and certification procedures.
• Identify and troubleshoot physical network infrastructure issues.
• Produce technical documentation, installation records, and testing results.
• Demonstrate understanding of network infrastructure planning, implementation, and maintenance.

Core Examination 2 – Secure Network Design and Security Project

• Design and implement a secure network solution for a business environment.
• Configure switching, routing, and wireless networking components.
• Apply network security controls and access management measures.
• Develop network diagrams and configuration documentation.
• Perform network monitoring and troubleshooting activities.
• Document security, performance, and operational procedures.
• Evaluate network scalability, resilience, and future expansion requirements.

Complete a reflective report outlining lessons learned, future improvements, and recommendations for ongoing network optimisation.

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• Explain fundamental networking concepts, communication models, protocols, and technologies used in modern network environments.
• Identify, select, and implement appropriate network media, cabling standards, and structured cabling solutions to support organisational infrastructure requirements.
• Configure and troubleshoot Ethernet-based networks, switching technologies, and local area network (LAN) environments.
• Apply routing, IP addressing, subnetting, and wide area networking concepts to enable communication between interconnected networks.
• Design, implement, and maintain wired and wireless network solutions that meet organisational connectivity and performance requirements.
• Apply network security controls, hardening techniques, and troubleshooting methodologies to protect and optimise network infrastructure.
• Design, document, test, and present a complete networking solution incorporating industry-standard networking, security, and infrastructure practices.

• Strong Entry-Level Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Network Support Technician, IT Support Specialist, Network Administrator Trainee, and Infrastructure Support Analyst, with typical starting salaries ranging from €30,000 to €45,000 per year.
• Excellent Career Progression: With industry experience and certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or vendor-specific networking credentials, professionals can progress into Network Engineer, Systems Administrator, and Infrastructure Engineer roles earning €60,000 or more annually.
• High Industry Demand: Organisations continue to rely on secure and reliable network infrastructure to support cloud services, remote working, cybersecurity initiatives, and digital transformation projects.
• Practical and Accessible Pathway: This course focuses on industry-relevant skills and hands-on experience, providing learners with a strong foundation for networking careers without requiring a formal computer science degree.