Switching and Routing Technologies Course | Generated by AI
Course Outline: Switching and Routing Technologies (交换与路由技术, Course Code: 510201)
This course is part of the National Higher Education Self-Study Examination (高等教育自学考试) in Guangdong Province, China, specifically within the Computer Application Technology (计算机应用技术) specialist-level program (专科, code 510201). It is a core subject focusing on practical skills in network infrastructure, emphasizing configuration and management of routers and switches for building and maintaining small- to medium-scale networks. The course aligns with national standards for self-study exams, promoting self-directed learning combined with hands-on practice.
Course Objectives
- Understand the fundamental principles of network switching and routing technologies.
- Master basic configuration, troubleshooting, and optimization of routers and switches.
- Apply knowledge to design, implement, and maintain simple LAN/WAN environments.
- Prepare for network engineering roles or certifications (e.g., entry-level Huawei or Cisco equivalents).
- Develop skills in network security basics, IP addressing, and protocol implementation.
Prerequisites
- Basic computer knowledge (e.g., operating systems, networking fundamentals).
- Recommended prior exposure to courses like “Computer Network Basics” or equivalent.
Course Content
The curriculum is structured around theoretical foundations and practical applications, typically divided into modules with a mix of lectures, simulations, and lab exercises. Total study hours: Approximately 60-80 (self-paced, with exam preparation). Key topics include:
- Network Fundamentals and Equipment Overview (10-15%)
- Introduction to computer networks: topologies, OSI/TCP/IP models, and performance metrics.
- Network devices: Hubs, bridges, routers, switches (Layer 2 vs. Layer 3), and their roles.
- Transmission media: Twisted-pair cables, fiber optics, and wireless basics.
- IP addressing: IPv4/IPv6 planning, subnetting, and DHCP configuration.
- Switching Technologies (25-30%)
- Switch principles: MAC address learning, forwarding, and flooding.
- VLAN configuration: Creation, assignment, trunking (e.g., 802.1Q), and inter-VLAN routing.
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP/RSTP/MSTP): Preventing loops, root bridge election, port states, and BPDUs.
- Link aggregation (EtherChannel/LACP) and redundancy protocols (VRRP/HSRP).
- Basic switch management: CLI access, port security, and QoS prioritization.
- Routing Technologies (25-30%)
- Routing basics: Static vs. dynamic routing, routing tables, and forwarding processes.
- Static routing: Default routes, floating static routes, and route summarization.
- Dynamic routing protocols:
- RIP (RIPv1/RIPv2): Distance-vector principles, updates, and limitations.
- OSPF: Link-state routing, areas, DR/BDR election, and LSDB.
- Route redistribution and metrics.
- WAN technologies: PPP, Frame Relay basics, and NAT/PAT configuration.
- Network Interconnection and Advanced Features (15-20%)
- LAN/WAN integration: Building multi-switch networks and router interconnections.
- Access control: ACLs (standard/extended), firewall basics, and VPN overviews (e.g., site-to-site IPsec).
- Network management: SNMP, Syslog, and basic troubleshooting (ping, traceroute, debug commands).
- Security essentials: Port protection, AAA authentication, and common threats (e.g., ARP spoofing).
- Practical Applications and Case Studies (10-15%)
- Network design: Planning topologies for enterprise scenarios (e.g., campus or office networks).
- Configuration labs: Using simulators (e.g., Packet Tracer, eNSP) for router/switch setups.
- Fault diagnosis: Identifying and resolving issues like connectivity failures or routing loops.
- Emerging topics: Brief intro to SDN, cloud integration, and IPv6 migration.
Teaching and Learning Methods
- Self-Study Focus: Reading designated textbooks, online resources, and video tutorials.
- Practice-Oriented: Emphasis on command-line interface (CLI) simulations; no physical hardware required for exam prep.
- Assessment Preparation: Multiple-choice, short-answer, and configuration-based questions in the exam.
- Recommended Textbook: “Routing and Switching Technology” (路由与交换技术), published by Higher Education Press (or equivalent, as specified in Guangdong exam guidelines). Supplementary: Huawei/H3C certification materials.
Examination Format
- Type: Closed-book, 150-minute written exam (70% theory, 30% practical scenarios).
- Scoring: 100 points total; passing score: 60/100.
- Frequency: Offered twice yearly (April/October) via Guangdong’s self-exam system.
- Weight: Counts toward 4-6 credits in the program.
This outline is derived from Guangdong’s official self-exam plan for code 510201 and standard curricula for similar courses. For the latest syllabus or exam updates, check the Guangdong Education Exam Authority website.
References
- Guangdong Self-Exam Computer Application Technology Program
- Routing and Switching Technology MOOC (Example)
- H3CNE-RS+ Exam Outline (Related Certification)