CompTIA - CompTIA N+

Network architecture

• Explain the functions and applications of various network devices
• Compare and contrast the use of networking services and applications
• Install and configure the following networking services/applications
• Explain the characteristics and benefits of various WAN technologies
• Install and properly terminate various cable types and connectors using appropriate tools
• Differentiate between common network topologies
• Compare and contrast various connection interfaces and explain their purpose.
• Differentiate between network infrastructure implementations
• Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate addressing schema
• Explain the basics of routing concepts and protocols.
• Identify the basics elements of unified communication technologies.
• Compare and contrast technologies that support cloud and virtualization.
• Given a set of requirements, implement a basic network.

Network operations

• Given a scenario, use appropriate monitoring tools
• Given a scenario, analyze metrics and reports from monitoring and tracking performance tools
• Given a scenario, use appropriate resources to support configuration management
• Explain the importance of implementing network segmentation
• Given a scenario, install and apply patches and updates.
• Given a scenario, configure a switch using proper features
• Install and configure wireless LAN infrastructure and implement the appropriate technologies in support of wireless capable devices

Network security

• Compare and contrast risk related concepts.
• Compare and contrast common network vulnerabilities and threats.
• Given a scenario, implement network hardening techniques.
• Compare and contrast physical security controls
• Given a scenario, install and configure a basic firewall
• Explain the purpose of various network access control models
• Summarize basic forensic concepts

Troubleshooting

• Given a scenario, implement the following network troubleshooting methodology
• Given a scenario, analyze and interpret the output of troubleshooting tools
• Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common wireless issues
• Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common fiber cable issues
• Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common network issues
• Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common security issues
• Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve common WAN issues

Industry standards, practices, and network theory

• Analyze a scenario and determine the corresponding OSI layer
• Explain the basics of network theory and concepts.
• Given a scenario, deploy the appropriate wireless standard.
• Given a scenario, deploy the appropriate wired connectivity standard
• Given a scenario, implement the appropriate policies or procedures
• Summarize safety practices.
• Given a scenario, install and configure equipment in the appropriate location using best practices.
• Explain the basics of change management procedures
• Compare and contrast the following ports and protocols.
• Given a scenario, configure and apply the appropriate ports and protocols