Computer Network Systems
CET1020C — COMPUTER NETWORK SYSTEM
← Course Modules
Course Description
CET1020C: Computer Network Systems is a 4-credit introductory networking course in the Computer Engineering Technology discipline of Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS). The course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands-on lab experience in the design, installation, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting of modern computer networks. Students study network architectures, protocols, media, devices, addressing, and services while developing the practical skills needed to support small-to-medium enterprise networks. The course is commonly aligned with the CompTIA Network+ certification objectives and serves as a prerequisite to advanced courses in routing and switching, network security, and wireless networking within Florida college A.S. and certificate programs in Network Engineering Technology and Computer Information Technology.
Learning Outcomes
Required Outcomes (common across Florida college offerings):
- Explain the purpose and structure of computer networks, including LANs, WANs, MANs, PANs, and the Internet.
- Describe and apply the OSI and TCP/IP reference models to analyze network communication.
- Identify common networking media, connectors, and transmission technologies (copper, fiber, wireless).
- Configure IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, including subnetting, supernetting (CIDR), and address classes.
- Install, configure, and troubleshoot common network devices such as switches, routers, access points, and firewalls.
- Apply standard network protocols (Ethernet, TCP, UDP, DHCP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, ARP, ICMP) to support network services.
- Identify causes of networking problems using diagnostic testing software, command-line utilities, and equipment.
- Implement basic network security practices, including access control, secure protocols, and common threat mitigations.
- Document network configurations, topologies, and procedures using professional standards.
Optional Outcomes (covered at some institutions):
- Configure and manage virtual LANs (VLANs) and basic inter-VLAN routing.
- Describe cloud networking concepts and virtualization fundamentals.
- Implement basic wireless network configuration and security (WPA2/WPA3).
- Use packet analyzers (e.g., Wireshark) and network simulators (e.g., Packet Tracer, GNS3) to evaluate network behavior.
- Prepare for the CompTIA Network+ certification examination.
Major Topics
Required Topics:
- Introduction to networking concepts, history, and standards organizations (IEEE, IETF, ISO, ANSI)
- OSI and TCP/IP reference models
- Network topologies and architectures (star, mesh, hybrid, client-server, peer-to-peer)
- Transmission media, cabling standards, and connectors
- Ethernet technologies and switching fundamentals
- IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and subnetting
- Routing fundamentals and common routing protocols overview
- Network services: DHCP, DNS, NAT, and common application-layer protocols
- Wireless networking standards (802.11) and basic configuration
- Network security fundamentals: threats, vulnerabilities, defense-in-depth
- Network troubleshooting methodology and tools (ping, tracert/traceroute, ipconfig/ifconfig, nslookup, netstat)
- Network documentation and operational procedures
Optional Topics:
- VLANs, trunking, and basic switch configuration
- Virtualization and cloud computing service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
- SDN and network automation overview
- VoIP and unified communications fundamentals
- Disaster recovery, high availability, and business continuity
Resources & Tools
- CompTIA Network+ aligned textbook (e.g., Pearson, Cengage, or Sybex editions)
- Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3 for network simulation
- Wireshark protocol analyzer
- Physical or virtual lab kits with switches, routers, cables, and end devices
- Windows and Linux operating systems for client/server lab exercises
- Online lab platforms such as TestOut, NetLab+, or Cisco NetAcad
Career Pathways
Successful completion of CET1020C prepares students for entry-level networking roles and supports continued study in routing/switching, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure. Typical career pathways include:
- Network Support Technician / Help Desk Technician
- Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- Field Service Network Technician
- IT Support Specialist
The course also serves as a foundation for advanced certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and vendor-specific credentials, and articulates into Florida college A.S. degrees in Network Engineering Technology, Cybersecurity, and Computer Information Technology, as well as related B.S./B.A.S. programs.