Network+ Learning Assistant

Overview

Comprehensive learning assistant for CompTIA Network+ N10-009 certification covering all exam objectives with interactive exercises, visual aids, and exam-style questions.

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy
• Interest in networking concepts
• Access to the learn_comptia_network+ application

What This Skill Does

1. OSI Model Training: Layer-by-layer breakdown with real-world examples
2. Subnetting Practice: IPv4/IPv6 subnet calculations with step-by-step solutions
3. Protocol Analysis: Deep dive into TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and common protocols
4. Exam Preparation: Practice questions mapped to exam objectives
5. Network Troubleshooting: Systematic methodology using OSI model

Quick Start

Study Session

# Start a focused study session on any topic
"Help me understand [topic]"

# Topics available:
# - OSI Model layers and protocols
# - TCP/IP fundamentals
# - Subnetting and CIDR notation
# - Network topologies
# - Wireless networking (802.11)
# - Network security concepts
# - Cloud networking
# - Network appliances and devices

Practice Mode

# Generate practice questions
"Give me 5 practice questions about [topic]"

# Subnetting practice
"Create a subnetting exercise for a /24 network"

# Troubleshooting scenarios
"Give me a network troubleshooting scenario"

Exam Objectives Coverage

Domain 1: Networking Concepts (23%)

• OSI and TCP/IP models
• Network topologies
• Cloud concepts and connectivity
• Common ports and protocols

Domain 2: Network Implementation (19%)

• Routing technologies
• Switching features
• Wireless standards
• WAN technologies

Domain 3: Network Operations (16%)

• Documentation and diagrams
• Monitoring and metrics
• Remote access methods
• Policies and best practices

Domain 4: Network Security (19%)

• Security concepts
• Attack types
• Hardening techniques
• Remote access security

Domain 5: Network Troubleshooting (23%)

• Troubleshooting methodology
• Cable connectivity issues
• Network service issues
• Performance issues

Learning Modules

OSI Model Deep Dive

Layer 7 - Application    : HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, DNS, DHCP
Layer 6 - Presentation   : SSL/TLS, JPEG, GIF, encryption
Layer 5 - Session        : NetBIOS, RPC, session management
Layer 4 - Transport      : TCP, UDP, port numbers
Layer 3 - Network        : IP, ICMP, routers, routing
Layer 2 - Data Link      : Ethernet, MAC addresses, switches
Layer 1 - Physical       : Cables, hubs, physical media

Common Ports Reference

Port 20/21  - FTP (data/control)
Port 22     - SSH/SFTP
Port 23     - Telnet
Port 25     - SMTP
Port 53     - DNS
Port 67/68  - DHCP
Port 80     - HTTP
Port 110    - POP3
Port 143    - IMAP
Port 443    - HTTPS
Port 3389   - RDP

Subnetting Quick Reference

/8   = 255.0.0.0       = 16,777,214 hosts
/16  = 255.255.0.0     = 65,534 hosts
/24  = 255.255.255.0   = 254 hosts
/25  = 255.255.255.128 = 126 hosts
/26  = 255.255.255.192 = 62 hosts
/27  = 255.255.255.224 = 30 hosts
/28  = 255.255.255.240 = 14 hosts
/29  = 255.255.255.248 = 6 hosts
/30  = 255.255.255.252 = 2 hosts

Study Strategies

Effective Learning Techniques

1. Active Recall: Test yourself frequently
2. Spaced Repetition: Review material at increasing intervals
3. Hands-On Practice: Use simulators and labs
4. Teach Others: Explain concepts to solidify understanding
5. Practice Tests: Take full-length practice exams

Exam Day Tips

• Get adequate sleep the night before
• Arrive early to the testing center
• Read each question carefully
• Flag difficult questions and return to them
• Manage your time (90 minutes for ~90 questions)

Troubleshooting Methodology

7-Step Process

1. Identify the problem: Gather information
2. Establish theory: Consider probable causes
3. Test the theory: Confirm or eliminate causes
4. Establish action plan: Plan resolution steps
5. Implement solution: Execute the plan
6. Verify functionality: Confirm resolution
7. Document: Record findings and actions

Layer-by-Layer Troubleshooting

Start at Physical (Layer 1):
├── Check cables and connections
├── Verify link lights
└── Test with known-good equipment

Move to Data Link (Layer 2):
├── Check MAC address table
├── Verify VLAN configuration
└── Test switch port settings

Continue up the stack...

Interactive Features

Terminal Simulator Commands

# Available in the learning platform
ping <host>           # Test connectivity
traceroute <host>     # Trace packet path
nslookup <domain>     # DNS lookup
ipconfig / ifconfig   # View IP configuration
netstat               # Network statistics
arp -a                # ARP table

Practice Scenarios

The platform includes:

• Network design challenges
• Troubleshooting simulations
• Configuration exercises
• Real-world case studies

Resources

Application Components

• /src/components/osi/ - OSI model visualizations
• /src/components/ipv4/ - IPv4 subnetting tools
• /src/components/protocols/ - Protocol deep dives
• /src/components/assessment/ - Practice tests
• /src/components/topologies/ - Network diagrams

Related Documentation

• See docs/ directory for architecture details
• Review README.md for application overview

Exam Version: N10-009 (Current) Passing Score: 720 (on 100-900 scale) Questions: Up to 90 Time Limit: 90 minutes Question Types: Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, performance-based