Advanced Computer Networking – SS3 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note (First Term)

Computer networking is giving computers a way to “talk” to each other so they can share files, use the same printer or browse the internet together. Each device needs a unique IP address and a connection path: either cables (physical) or Wi-Fi (wireless). This note covers IP addressing, network cabling, wireless setup and the tools a technician uses.

Subject: Computer Hardware and GSM Repair
Class: SS3
Topic: IP Addressing, Cabling, and Wireless Setup

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• explain what an IP address is and give an example of an IPv4 address;
• distinguish between static and dynamic IP addresses;
• describe twisted pair (Ethernet) cable and fibre optic cable;
• list the key components and the setup steps of a Wi-Fi network;
• name the tools a technician uses to build a wired network and state what each does.

Why do we network?

Imagine you have a group of friends, and everyone has a secret to share. If you stand in different rooms and shout, no one hears clearly. If you all have walkie-talkies or a string-and-cup phone, the message travels well.

In computing, networking is giving computers a way to “talk” to each other so they can share files, use the same printer, or browse the internet together. To do this, they need an address (so they know who is talking) and either a physical path (cables) or an invisible path (wireless).

What is an IP address?

Every device on a network, whether it is your phone, a laptop or a smart TV, must have a unique ID. We call this the IP (Internet Protocol) address.

Think of it like a house address. If the postman has a letter for “House No. 5,” he will not drop it at “House No. 10.”

IPv4 (the common version)

Most networks use IPv4. It looks like four sets of numbers separated by dots.

• Example: 192.168.1.1
• Each number can be anything from 0 to 255.

Static and dynamic IP addresses

• Static IP: This is like a permanent home address. It never changes. Servers and printers usually have static IPs so computers can always find them.
• Dynamic IP: This is like a hotel room. When you connect to Wi-Fi, the router “assigns” you an address. When you leave, that address is given to someone else. This is managed by something called DHCP.

What cables are used in a network?

Wi-Fi is popular, but cables are still the fastest and most reliable way to connect computers, especially in a school lab or a big office.

Twisted pair (Ethernet cable)

The most common cable is the Cat5e or Cat6 cable. Inside, there are 8 thin wires twisted in pairs to stop electrical interference.

• RJ-45 connector: This is the plastic “clip” at the end of the cable that snaps into the computer’s LAN port.

Fibre optics

This is the “Super Highway.” Instead of electricity, it uses light to send data through glass threads. It is very fast and is used to connect cities or provide high-speed internet to buildings.

How do you set up a wireless network (Wi-Fi)?

Wireless networking (WLAN) allows devices to connect using radio waves instead of cables.

Key components

1. The router: This is the “Traffic Police.” It takes the internet from your provider and shares it with your devices.
2. The SSID: This is the name of your Wi-Fi (for example, “School_Lab_WiFi”).
3. Security (WPA2/WPA3): You must lock your network with a password. Without this, anyone nearby can “steal” your data or bandwidth.

Simple setup steps

1. Place the router in a central, high location. Walls and metal cabinets block the signal.
2. Log into the router settings.
3. Change the default admin password (so hackers cannot get in).
4. Set your SSID and a strong Wi-Fi password.

What tools does a networking technician need?

To set up these networks, you need a few specialised tools in your bag:

• Crimping tool: A heavy metal tool used to squeeze the RJ-45 connector onto the end of a cable.
• Cable tester: A device with blinking lights that tells you if all 8 wires in your cable are connected correctly.
• Network switch: A box with many ports used to connect multiple wired computers together in one room.

What should you plan before setting up a network?

A good networker plans before plugging things in. You must decide:

1. How many devices need IP addresses?
2. Are the cables short enough? (Ethernet cables should not be longer than 100 metres.)
3. Is the Wi-Fi signal strong in every corner of the room?

Evaluation

1. If two computers on the same network have the exact same IP address, what do you think will happen?
2. Why would a bank prefer to use cables instead of Wi-Fi for its main computers?
3. What does DHCP do for your smartphone when you walk into a cafe?
4. Identify the tool used to attach a connector to a network cable.
5. What is the range of each number in an IPv4 address?

Assignment

1. Write short notes on static and dynamic IP addresses, with one example of a device that uses each.
2. List the three key components of a Wi-Fi network and state the job of each.