vcc.ca
ITOP 1102: Networking Fundamentals
Effective date
September 2026
Department
IT Operations
School
Continuing Studies
Description
Students will learn the foundational concepts that enable modern computer networks to function, from how devices communicate to how small networks are designed and secured. Students will explore IP addressing, basic routing, core protocols, and wired and wireless connectivity through hands‑on lab activities. This course introduces essential tools and troubleshooting methods aligned with industry best practices. It builds the base students will need for advanced networking, cloud, and cybersecurity courses later in the program.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Design and secure efficient IP addressing schemes for small to medium-scale network environments, applying principles of subnetting and logical segmentation to support scalability and connectivity.
- Configure and validate basic network infrastructure that incorporates segmentation and routing, ensuring functional connectivity in hybrid environments and adherence to modern networking standards.
- Implement secure wireless LAN configurations using modern security and authentication protocols, and cloud-managed networking solutions.
- Analyze network traffic to identify and interpret core protocols, using appropriate diagnostic tools and methodologies.
- Diagnose network issues across physical and logical layers, applying structured troubleshooting approaches.
- Configure essential network services, such as DHCP scopes and DNS forwarders with cloud integration, ensuring integration with broader network architectures and operational requirements.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR is assessed through one or more of the following methods: challenge exam, external (industry) certification recognition, student portfolio/products, project-based asessment, or through another assessment method that is aligned with the course learning outcomes.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 24
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 12
Total Hours: 36
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 12
Total Hours: 36
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies may include:
Knowledge checks
Lectures
Hands-on lab activities
Scenario-based activities
Demonstrations
Problem-based exercises
Discussion
Reflection
Knowledge checks
Lectures
Hands-on lab activities
Scenario-based activities
Demonstrations
Problem-based exercises
Discussion
Reflection
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Project |
35-50 |
Project involving multiple components. |
|
Assignments |
30-45 |
Multiple hands-on labs and/or relevant assignments. |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
|
Course topics
- OSI and TCP/IP models; network components IP addressing, subnetting, routing basics, common protocols such as ARP, DHCP, DNS, HTTP/S etc. Physical and wireless technologies Network architecture, segmentation, and WAN Secure network design and risk mitigation, including hardening principles, zero-trust for small networks, first-line defences etc. Monitoring, troubleshooting, performance optimization, and recovery Documentation (e.g. IP schema) and logical/physical diagrams
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.