This sample chapter from the only authorized companion guide for the Cisco Networking Academy Program introduces newcomers to the basic concepts and components of modern computer networks.

Required text: Computer Networks: A Systems Approach ... as well as the motivation for a layered network architecture. • Explain basic physical layer signaling techniques to communicate digital bits ...

Basic concepts and techniques of computer network security; data encryption algorithms; public-key cryptography and key management; data authentication; network security protocols in practice; ...