Networking Basics Lab

This repository contains foundational networking concepts essential for IT support and system administration roles.

What is Networking?

Networking is the process of connecting devices to share resources, data, and services.

IP Addressing

What is an IP Address?

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to a device on a network.

Example

• 192.168.1.10

Types

• Private IP – Used within local networks
• Public IP – Used on the internet

DNS (Domain Name System)

What is DNS?

DNS translates human-friendly domain names into IP addresses.

Example

• google.com → 142.250.190.78

Why It Matters

Without DNS, users would need to remember IP addresses instead of domain names.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

What is DHCP?

DHCP automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.

Why It Matters

• Eliminates manual IP configuration
• Prevents IP conflicts

Basic Troubleshooting Example

Problem

Device connected to WiFi but no internet access

Possible Cause

No IP address assigned (DHCP failure)

Solution

1. Check IP address
2. Renew IP address
3. Restart router
4. Reconnect to network

Outcome

Device receives valid IP and regains internet access