|  |  | Overview

Now that you have a firm understanding of data flow through the OSI model, along with Layer 1 and 2 concepts and technologies, you are ready to start learning how to design networks. Network design takes many technologies into consideration (e.g. token-ring, FDDI, and Ethernet). For example, a Layer 1 LAN topology must be developed, and the type of cable, and the physical (wiring) topology must be determined.

In this chapter you will learn how the network's physical and logical topologies should be designed and documented. You will also learn to document brainstormed ideas, problem solving matrices, and other notes used in making your determinations. In addition, you will learn wiring closet specifications used in LANs, as well as wiring and electrical techniques used in network building.

Note: In this chapter, you may need to convert units of measurements. A small utility to help you make the conversions is available here. You can access it from anywhere in this chapter via the Index button below.