CCNA Course Introduction

Day Zero Overview

• Free CCNA Course sponsored by Boson Software.
• Encouraged to check out Boson for best CCNA and CCNP labs and practice exams.

Concept Introduction

• Example of shooting a bullet in an online game (Call of Duty).
• Bullet travels through network infrastructure:
  • Ethernet cable → Wall jack → Network rack → Switch → Router → Firewall → Modem → Internet.

Local Area Network (LAN) vs. Wide Area Network (WAN)

• LAN: Local network within a home.
• WAN: Connections across broader networks, primarily routers connecting various networks.
• The Internet: A collection of routers and devices enabling communication.

Basics of Networking

• Purpose of Networking: Allow computers to communicate and share data.
• Switches: Facilitate connections for multiple devices (computers, printers).
  • Broadcast Domains: Concept of how devices communicate.
  • MAC Addresses: Unique identifiers for devices on a network.
  • VLANs: Virtual LANs for segmenting networks.

Routers and Networks

• Routers connect different networks.
  • Example: Bob wants to talk to Mark; the router helps facilitate this communication.
• Internet as a Network of Networks: Multiple routers and switches connecting various segments.

Firewalls

• Function: Protects networks from unauthorized access and threats.
• Blocks harmful traffic and allows legitimate communication.

Wireless Networking

• Wireless Access Points (WAP): Allow devices to connect to a network without cables.
• Most home networks combine multiple functions (modem, router, firewall, switch) into one device.
• Businesses typically use separate devices for greater capability.

CCNA Certification

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Key certification for aspiring network engineers.
• Role of Network Engineers: Design, implement, and maintain networks.
• Course will cover networking devices like switches, routers, firewalls, wireless access points, and servers.

Course Structure

• One video per week covering all CCNA topics.
• Utilization of Boson Software for lab demonstrations and practice exams.
• Current sale: 25% off Boson software during summer sale.

Engagement and Questions

• Open to questions about the course and CCNA certification.
• Previous videos available for additional information.
• Encouragement to engage through comments for any inquiries.

Conclusion

• Excitement for the course and personal impact of the CCNA certification.
• Preparation for study, practice, and certification journey ahead.