Set-up Computer

Networks

COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II

CORE COMPETENCY No. 2
LEARNING OUTC0MES
Upon completion of this module you should be able to:
• Install network cables
• Set network configuration
• Set router/Wi-Fi/wireless access point/repeater configuration
• Inspect and test the configured computer networks
INFORMATION
SHEET 1.1
Learning Outcome 1: Install network cables
What is Network?
A network is a collection of
computers and related equipment
(printers, webcams, game consoles,
etc.) connected so that data can
move between them. Even if you
have a single computer, it looks to
the Internet as part of a network.
The Internet, then, is a network of
networks.
Three Basic Network
Categories
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
- A network that covers a small geographical area, such as a home, office, or building.
- features: High-speed data transfer, low cost, typically uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
- example: Connecting computers, printers, and servers within an office.

2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

- A network that spans a city or a large campus, larger than LAN but smaller than WAN.
- features: Connects multiple LANs within a city or region; high-speed connections using
fiber optics or leased lines.
- example: A network connecting multiple buildings of a university campus.

3. Wide Area Network (WAN)

- A network that covers a large geographical area, often a country or continent.
- features: Slower speeds compared to LANs/MANs; uses leased telephone lines, satellite links, or fiber
optics.
- example: The internet itself, connecting networks worldwide.
NETWORK
HARDWARE
 NETWORK
INTERFACE
CARD (NIC)
• A hardware component that enables a
computer to connect to a network. It's
essentially the interface that allows a
device to communicate with other devices
on a network, like a router or switch. NICs
can be either wired or wireless and are an
essential part of any device that needs to
access a network.
• Also called LAN card, a printed circuit
board, an adapter that plugs into the
computer’s motherboard when connected
with a network cable, provides the physical
link between your computer and the
Network Interface Card (NIC)
network.
 ROUTER
• Is a physical or virtual appliance that
passes information between two or more
packet-switched computer networks.
These networks can be local area
networks (LANs), wide area networks
(WANs) or a combination of the two.
• A device that forward data packets
between Local or Wide Area Network
groups.

AC2100 Mesh Wi-Fi Gigabit Router

 NETWORK
SWITCH
• is a device that connects multiple devices
(like computers, printers, and servers) on a
network, allowing them to communicate
and share resources. It works by
forwarding data packets between
connected devices based on their MAC
addresses, ensuring efficient and reliable
communication.
• A network switch (also called switching
hub, bridging hub, Ethernet switch, and, by
the IEEE, MAC bridge) is networking
hardware that connects devices on a
computer network by using packet D-Link DGS-108/E Network Gigabit
switching to receive and forward data to Switch, 8 Port
the destination device.
 Network
Repeater
• is a hardware device that regenerates
and amplifies a network signal to extend
its reach. It operates at the physical layer
of the OSI model, meaning it works
directly with the raw data signal and
doesn't interpret its contents. Repeaters
are used when signals weaken over long
distances or to connect network
segments that cannot be directly
connected due to signal limitations.
• A device that strengthen signals and
allows it to stay clear over longer
distances.
Wi-Fi Range Repeater/Extender
Self-Check No. 1.1
MULTIPLE CHOICE: Write the letter of the correct answer.
MULTIPLE CHOICE: Write the letter of the correct answer.

1. Which among the network hardware forwards data packets between Local or Wide Area
Network groups.
a. Network Hubs
b. Network Switch
c. Repeater
d. Router

2. What network hardware strengthens signals and allows it to stay clear over longer distances?
a. Network Hubs
b. Network Switch
c. Repeater
d. Router

3. Which of the following is the collection of computers and related equipment that are connected
so that data can move between them.
a. Computer System
b. Network
c. Hardware
d. Software
4. Which provides the physical link between your computer and the network
a. Network Hubs
b. Network Interface Cards
c. Network Switch
d. Router

5. The smallest of the three network types, consist of PCs connected together within a limited area,
such as within the same building, floor or department.
a. Metropolitan Area Network
b. Wide Area Network
c. Local Area Network
d. Network hubs

Write the name of the following network hardware picture below.

2 3
1
INFORMATION
SHEET 1.2
NETWORK CABLE
Network cables, also known as Ethernet cables, are essential for
connecting devices to a wired network, facilitating data transmission
between computers, routers, switches, and other network devices.
They come in various types, including coaxial, twisted-pair, and fiber
optic, each with its own advantages and applications.

At its simplest, a network cable is the physical conduit through which

data travels from one network device to another. These cables are
crucial for setting up internet connections, linking computers in a local
network, and more broadly, ensuring that devices can communicate
efficiently and effectively.
Examples of network media
1. Twisted-pair cable: Commonly used in Ethernet networks,
consisting of pairs of wires twisted together to reduce interference.
• Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable
• Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable
2. Coaxial cable: Features a central conductor surrounded by
insulation and a shield, often used in cable television and older
networks.
3. Fiber optic cable: Transmits data as light pulses through thin glass
or plastic fibers, offering high speeds and bandwidth.
4. Wireless: Utilizes radio waves, infrared, or microwaves for data
transmission, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
cable
• is a common type of copper cable used in
networking and telecommunications. It consists of
insulated copper wires twisted together in pairs,
without any additional shielding around the pairs.
This twisting helps to minimize interference and
crosstalk, ensuring reliable data transmission.
• UTP cable is a 100 ohm copper cable that consists
of 2 to 1800 unshielded twisted pairs surrounded
by an outer jacket. They have no metallic shield.
This makes the cable small in diameter but
unprotected against electrical interference. The
twist helps to improve its immunity to electrical
noise and EMI.
Types of UTP cables
The five categories of UTP cable are defined by the TIA/EIA 568 standard:
• CAT3: Rarely used today, CAT3 is usually deployed in phone lines. It supports
10 Mbps for up to 100 meters.
• CAT4: Typically used in token ring networks, CAT4 supports 16 Mbps for up to
100 meters.
• CAT5: Used in Ethernet-based LANs, CAT5 contains two twisted pairs. It
supports 100 Mbps for up to 100 meters.
• CAT5e: Used in Ethernet-based LANs, CAT5e contains four twisted pairs. It
supports 1 Gbps for 100 meters.
• CAT6: Used in Ethernet-based LANs and data center networks, CAT6 contains
four tightly wound twisted pairs. It supports 1 Gbps for up to 100 meters and 10
Gbps for up to 50 meters.
UTP Categories
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)
cable
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)
cables are communication cables
where pairs of wires are twisted
together and encased in a metallic
shield to minimize electromagnetic
interference (EMI) and radio
frequency interference (RFI). This
shielding protects the signal from
noise and ensures reliable data
transmission in environments with
high levels of electromagnetic
noise
Coaxial Cable
• A coaxial cable, often called "coax," is a type of
electrical cable used to transmit high-frequency
signals, primarily for video and audio
applications. It consists of a central conductor
surrounded by an insulating layer, a metal
shield, and an outer insulating layer. This design
helps to minimize signal loss and interference.
• Coaxial cabling has a single copper conductor
at its center. A plastic layer provides insulation
between the center conductor and a braided
metal shield. The metal shield helps to block
any outside interference from fluorescent lights,
motors, and other computers.
Coaxial Cable
Although coaxial cabling is difficult to install, it is highly resistant to signal interference.
In addition, it can support greater cable lengths between network devices than twisted
pair cable. The two types of coaxial cabling are thick coaxial and thin coaxial.
Thin coaxial cable is also referred to as thinnet. 10Base2 refers to the specifications
for thin coaxial cable carrying Ethernet signals. The 2 refers to the approximate
maximum segment length being 200 meters. In actual fact the maximum segment
length is 185 meters. Thin coaxial cable has been popular in school networks,
especially linear bus networks.
Thick coaxial cable is also referred to as thicknet. 10Base5 refers to the specifications
for thick coaxial cable carrying Ethernet signals. The 5 refers to the maximum
segment length being 500 meters. Thick coaxial cable has an extra protective plastic
cover that helps keep moisture away from the center conductor. This makes thick
coaxial a great choice when running longer lengths in a linear bus network. One
disadvantage of thick coaxial is that it does not bend easily and is difficult to install.
Coaxial Cable Connectors
The most common type of connector used with coaxial cables is the Bayone-Neill-
Concelman (BNC) connector. Different types of adapters are available for BNC
connectors, including a T-connector, barrel connector, and terminator. Connectors on
the cable are the weakest points in any network. To help avoid problems with your
network, always use the BNC connectors that crimp, rather screw, onto the cable.
Coaxial cables are commonly
used
• Cable TV: Connecting satellite antenna facilities to homes and
businesses.
• Internet Connections: Used for networking, especially older
Ethernet technologies.
• Digital Audio: For S/PDIF connections.
• Radio Applications: Connecting radio transmitters and receivers to
their antennas.
• Video and Audio Equipment: Used to connect devices like TVs,
DVD players, and game consoles.
Fiber Optic Cable
• Fiber optic cabling consists of a center glass core surrounded by
several layers of protective materials. It transmits light rather than
electronic signals eliminating the problem of electrical interference. This
makes it ideal for certain environments that contain a large amount of
electrical interference. It has also made it the standard for connecting
networks between buildings, due to its immunity to the effects of
moisture and lighting.
• Fiber optic cable has the ability to transmit signals over much longer
distances than coaxial and twisted pair. It also has the capability to
carry information at vastly greater speeds. This capacity broadens
communication possibilities to include services such as video
conferencing and interactive services.
WIRELESS LAN
More and more networks are operating without cables, in the wireless
mode. Wireless LANs use high frequency radio signals, infrared light
beams, or lasers to communicate between the workstations, servers,
or hubs. Each workstation and file server on a wireless network has
some sort of transceiver/antenna to send and receive the data.

Wireless networks are great for allowing laptop computers, portable devices, or
remote computers to connect to the LAN. Wireless networks are also beneficial in
older buildings where it may be difficult or impossible to install cables.
Cable Installation Guides
When running cable, it is best to follow a few simple rules:
• Always use more cable than you need. Leave plenty of slack.
• Test every part of a network as you install it. Even if it is brand new, it may have
problems that will be difficult to isolate later.
• Stay at least 3 feet away from fluorescent light boxes and other sources of electrical
interference.
• If it is necessary to run cable across the floor, cover the cable with cable protectors.
• Label both ends of each cable.
• Use cable ties (not tape) to keep cables in the same location together.
Two most common network cable
1. Straight through cable – Connected from PC to switch/hub
2. Crossover cable – Connected from PC to PC (limited of two computers only)
What id RJ45?
RJ45, short for Registered Jack-45, is an eight-pin connector used for
connecting Ethernet cables to devices like computers, routers, and
switches. It's a standardized connector for data transmission in
computer networks, typically used with twisted-pair cables like those
found in Ethernet networks.

Wiring Standards for RJ45

1. T568A
2. T568B
Standard T568A vs T568B

T - 568A Pinout Points T - 568B Pinout Points

Pin 1: White and Green Pin 1: White and Orange
Pin 2: Green Pin 2: Orange
Pin 3: White and Orange Pin 3: White and Green
Pin 4: Blue Pin 4: Blue
Pin 5: White and Blue Pin 5: White and Blue
Pin 6: Orange Pin 6: Green
Pin 7: White and Brown Pin 7: White and Brown
Pin 8: Brown Pin 8: Brown
RJ45 Color code and pin
arrangement
RJ45 WIRING GUIDE
Self Check 1.2
1. What are the examples of network media?

2. Give the two wiring standards for RJ45.

3. Give the two most commonly used network cable.

4. Enumerate the color arrangement of T568B in order.

INFORMATION
SHEET 2.1
Learning Outcome 2: Set network configuration
Network Configuration
Network configuration is the
process of setting a network’s
controls, flow and operation to
support the network
communication of an
organization and/or network
owner. This broad term
incorporates multiple
configuration devices and
components.
INFORMATION
SHEET 2.2
Learning Outcome 2: Set network configuration
Patch Panel
A patch panel is a crucial piece of network infrastructure that serves
as a central point for organizing and managing network cables. It
provides a way to connect and manage multiple cables in a
structured manner, preventing tangled messes and simplifying cable
management, troubleshooting, and documentation. Patch panels are
commonly found in data centers, server rooms, and
telecommunication closets.
Patch panel cable
management
Neat Patch is the ultimate in
Before After
patch panel rack cable
management system. A storage
solution unlike anything the
network cabling world has ever
known. Neat Patch panel rack is
compliant with telecom/datacom
industry standards, and supports
proper bend radius
requirements.

RJ45 Modular RJ45 Modular Jack Face Plate (Front)

Jack RJ45 Modular Jack Face Plate (Back)
Self Check 2.1
1. What is the purpose of patch panel?

2. Draw a diagram on Basic Network Configuration.

INFORMATION
SHEET 3.1
Learning Outcome 3: Set router/Wi-Fi/Wireless
access point/repeater configuration
Router Configuration
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between
computer networks. Routers perform the traffic direction function on
the Internet.
How to Change Your Wireless Router
Settings
All routers and access points are slightly different, but this guide will
give you a general idea of the process of accessing your router
configuration to change the channel, security type, and other settings.

1. Connect to your network wirelessly, or via ethernet.

Note: An ethernet cable works a bit better, because your router will disconnect
you from the wireless network for a moment while it switches channels.
2. Find your router configuration page.
Access the router configuration page by typing the router’s IP
address in to the address bar, and pressing enter.
IP Address Typical For
192.168.0.1 D-Link, Netgear, and others. Try this IP first
192.168.1.1 Linksys, Belkin, TP-Link, and others
192.168.15.1 Clear/ClearWire
192.168.100.1 Virgin Media Superhub
192.168.1.254 TP-Link
10.0.1.1 This is pretty rare

Note: Even though there are a few more possible addresses, it doesn’t take long to see the
pattern. Try changing the second to last number if none of those work.

Each router hosts a tiny webpage that you access to configure it. Just like a website has
an address (such as www.metageek.com), your router has an address. Since it's a home
Wi-Fi router, it doesn't need a name reserved for it, so it's just a numerical address.
Typing in the address in the address bar on your browser will take you to the
configuration page for your router.
 Find your router
configuration page
Each router hosts a tiny webpage that you
access to configure it. Just like a website
has an address (such as
www.metageek.com), your router has an
address. Since it's a home Wi-Fi router, it
doesn't need a name reserved for it, so it's
just a numerical address. Typing in the
address in the address bar on your browser
will take you to the configuration page for
your router.

Step 1
 Log in with the
username &
password
Most routers require a username and
password. The default username is usually
admin. The default password is usually on a
sticker on the router, or printed on the paper
manual or packaging. If you can’t figure it
out, Google the model number of your
router and “password” together.

Step 2
 Find the
Wireless
Settings page
On the D-Link router that we used, the
wireless settings page was easy to find.
Usually, you can locate it along the top or
the left side, but it depends on the router. In
some cases, it’s hidden in another menu.

Step 3
 Find the
Wireless
Settings page
On the D-Link router that we used, the
wireless settings page was easy to find.
Usually, you can locate it along the top or
the left side, but it depends on the router. In
some cases, it’s hidden in another menu.

Step 4
 Set the new
channel
1, 6, and 11 are the only three channels that don’t
overlap on the 2.4 GHz band, and while putting
your Wi-Fi network on the same channel as
another network in the same band isn't ideal, it is
always a better idea to share a channel than to
overlap.

This is also a really good time to make sure that

you are using WPA2 for security, and 20 MHz
channels only (not 40 MHz or "bonded"
channels).

In the 5 GHz band, almost any channel is a good

choice except for DFS channels. Therefore we
recommend using channels 36-48, or 149-165.
Step 5 We recommend using 40 MHz wide channels in
the 5 GHz band.

Click Save Settings or Apply Settings to save the changes.

 Your router
will now
reboot
If you are connected wirelessly, it might
take a moment for the channel to switch
and for your computer to reconnect.

Troubleshooting

If you can’t figure out a step, or if run into

difficulty in general:

Google it! Seriously, Google is your friend.

Always. Try Googling the model number of
your router, followed by "setup" or
"configuration". Instructions are always out
Restart your router to verify that the changes there.
have been applied.
INFORMATION
SHEET 4.1
Learning Outcome 4: Inspect and test the
configured computer networks
Testing Your Computer
Network
You’ve set up all your network switches, plugged in all the cables, and
configured all your computers. One task remains before you can
declare your network finished. You must verify that the network works
as expected.
Here are a few simple test you can conduct to make sure your
network is functional.
• Check the physical connection
Check that the Link light – the little red or green light next to the
RJ45 port is lit on every computer. You must check this light both
on computer itself and on the switch or router the computer in
plugged into. If the light is not on, you have a connection problem
– most likely a bad cable
• Verify that you can log on.
When you’re sure the physical connection are good, you should attempt to log on to
each other of your network computers using a valid domain user account
• Check the network configuration
Click the start button, type cmd and press enter. Then enter the command
<ipconfig> and press enter
• This command will spit out numerous lines of information. The line you’re looking for
should resemble this:

• Verify that the computers can ping each other.

Another basic test you should perform is to use the ping command from a command
prompt to make sure that the computers on your network can contact one another,
Ping another computer
Click the Start button, type cmd and press enter. Then enter the command ping
192.168.1.1 and press enter.
INFORMATION
SHEET 4.2
Learning Outcome 4: Inspect and test the
configured computer networks
What is an IP Address?
An Internet Protocol address (IP address) in layman’s terms is
basically the address given to your computer when it’s connected to a
network. Technically speaking an IP address is a 32-bit number that
signifies the address of both the sender and receiver of packets on a
network.
Class Address Range Supports
Class A 1.0.0.1 to 126.255.255.254 Large networks with many devices
Class B 128.1.0.1 to 191.255.255.254 Medium-sized networks
Small networks (fewer than 256
Class C 192.0.1.1 to 223.255.255.254
devices
Class D 224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255 Reserved for multicast groups
Reserved for future use, research and
Class E 240.0.0.0 to 254.255.255.254
Development Purposes
Two main type of IP Address
1. Static IP Address
As the name speaks, the static IP address are those types of IP
address that never change once they are assigned to a device on
a network. No doubt this type of addressing is cost effective but
could have a high security risk. Static IP addresses are mostly
use by web, email and gaming servers who don’t care much
about hiding their locations
2. Dynamic IP Address
On the other hand, a Dynamic IP address changes each time the
device logs in to a network. This kind of IP address is very tough
to trace and are thus used by companies and business firms.