Chapter 5. Installation and Configuration

This chapter covers the following official Network+ objectives:

• Given a set of requirements, plan and implement a basic SOHO network.

• Categorize WAN technology types and properties.

This chapter covers CompTIA Network+ objectives 2.6, and 3.4. For more information on the official Network+ exam topics, see the “About the Network+ Exam” section in the “Introduction.”

If you think of networking as something that can be represented on a plane, there would be two ends of the spectrum. At one end of the spectrum, there would be small networks of only a few nodes and devices connected together. These are known as small office, home office (SOHO) networks and are easy to assemble.

At the other end of the spectrum is the WAN: An amalgamation of multiple local area networks creating an entity that is only as strong as its weakest link. This chapter examines both ends of the spectrum, starting with the simplest first and building from there. It concludes by looking at Internet access technologies because few networks today—if any—do not connect to the Internet.