Computer Networks and Operating Systems: Foundations and Practice

STEM and Technological Innovation
Duration:
20 Hours (5 Days)
Language:
English
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Course Overview

Computer Networks and Operating Systems: Foundations and Practice offers a practical introduction to the essential principles and skills required to understand, set up, and manage modern IT environments. Through a balanced combination of theory and hands-on activities, participants will explore how computer networks function and how operating systems—such as Windows and Linux—interact with these networks. The course covers key topics including network design and configuration, structured cabling, IP addressing, installation and management of operating systems, sharing and securing resources, and troubleshooting common issues. By the end of the programme, learners will be able to confidently configure, secure, and support integrated networked systems, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in IT support and administration.

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Course Objectives
  • Understand the fundamental concepts, components, and terminology of computer networks and operating systems.
  • Recognise how operating systems interact with network environments and support networked communication.
  • Acquire practical skills in installing, configuring, and managing both Windows and Linux operating systems in networked contexts.
  • Design, implement, and document simple network infrastructures.
  • Configure network connections, share resources, and manage users across different operating systems.
  • Apply basic security and troubleshooting techniques to maintain reliable and secure networked systems.
  • Develop confidence to support, maintain, and optimise IT environments involving both networks and operating systems.
Schedule

Module 1: Digital Infrastructures – Networks and Operating Systems in Context

  • Role and evolution of computer networks and operating systems in modern organisations
  • Interaction between OS and network services
  • Types of networks (LAN, WAN, WLAN, VPN) and common operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Real-world examples: how networks and OS work together in business, education, and public services

Module 2: Standards, Hardware, and Structured Cabling

  • OSI and TCP/IP models: layers, functions, and data flow
  • Ethernet standards, Wi-Fi generations, and common protocols
  • Core hardware: NICs, switches, routers, access points, servers
  • Structured cabling principles, best practices, and documentation
  • Hands-on: cable assembly, cable testing, and network map creation

Module 3: Addressing, Segmentation, and Network Configuration

  • Fundamentals of IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, public/private IPs
  • Subnetting, supernetting, and network segmentation for efficiency and security
  • DHCP and DNS: roles, setup, and troubleshooting
  • Hands-on: configuring static and dynamic IPs in Windows and Linux; verifying and troubleshooting addresses

Module 4: Installing and Managing Windows and Linux Operating Systems

  • Preparing for OS installation: requirements and partitioning
  • Installing Windows and Linux (demo or guided lab)
  • First setup: drivers, system updates, user creation
  • Introduction to the command line: essential commands for networking in both systems
  • Dual boot and virtualisation basics (optional/overview)

Module 5: Connecting Systems and Sharing Resources

  • Connecting devices to wired and wireless networks in different OS
  • File and printer sharing: configuration using SMB/CIFS (Windows) and NFS/Samba (Linux)
  • Mapping and accessing shared folders across platforms
  • Permission models and access control
  • Hands-on: setting up a shared folder, configuring access, testing connectivity

Module 6: Network Services and Administration

  • Installing and configuring DHCP, DNS, and basic web services
  • Setting up and managing remote desktop and remote access
  • Monitoring services and network activity (Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Linux tools)
  • Introduction to scripting for basic automation (PowerShell, Bash)

Module 7: Security, Updates, and User Management

  • Creating and managing local users and groups
  • OS-based firewalls (Windows Defender, UFW/Firewalld in Linux) and essential configuration
  • Patch management and automatic updates
  • Basic security best practices: passwords, permissions, service hardening
  • Introduction to audit logs and system monitoring

Module 8: Troubleshooting, Optimisation and Documentation

  • Diagnosing common network and system issues: connectivity, performance, access
  • Tools: ping, traceroute, ipconfig/ifconfig, nslookup, Event Viewer, syslog
  • System optimisation tips: cleaning, updates, startup management
  • Importance of documentation: change logs, network diagrams, user guides
  • Hands-on: case-based troubleshooting exercises

Module 9: Integration Project – Building a Realistic Networked Environment

  • Planning a small mixed-OS network: requirements and design
  • Implementation: OS installation, configuration, resource sharing, security
  • Documentation: diagrams, procedures, users, issues faced
  • Project presentation and peer feedback

 

Next Dates

No future dates found. For more information, please contact us .

Price

Each quotation is personalized and depends on several factors, such as the number of participants, the number of training hours, the location of the course, and any additional services requested.
The training can be funded through programs such as Erasmus+ (KA1 – Learning Mobility), among other European support mechanisms. For more information about funding, participants should contact their sending organization or their country’s National Agency directly.

Important Info

Certificate

A Certificate of Participation is awarded to participants who attend at least 80% of the sessions and demonstrate consistent engagement and commitment throughout the training.

Schedule

The time of classes, whether in the morning or afternoon is determined by the provider. The schedule may vary considerably based on participants’ preferences and the trainer’s discretion regarding any modifications.

Cultural activities
Equipment

Bring a laptop or tablet to use during the sessions.

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