What Is My IP Address

Internet Protocol Address:

This number is an exclusive number all information technology devices (printers, routers, modems, et al) use which identifies and allows them the ability to communicate with each other on a computer network. There is a standard of communication which is called an Internet Protocol standard (IP). In laymans terms it is the same as your home address. In order for you to receive snail mail at home the sending party must have your correct mailing address (IP address) in your town (network) or you do not receive bills, pizza coupons or your tax refund. The same is true for all equipment on the internet. Without this specific address, information cannot be received. IP addresses may either be assigned permanently for an Email server/Business server or a permanent home resident or temporarily, from a pool of available addresses (first come first serve) from your Internet Service Provider. A permanent number may not be available in all areas and may cost extra so be sure to ask your ISP.

Domain Name System (DNS): 

This allows the IP address to be translated to words. It is much easier for us to remember a word than a series of numbers. The same is true for email addresses.

For example, it is much easier for you to remember a web address name such as whatismyip.com than it is to remember 192.168.1.1 or in the case of email it is much easier to remember email@somedomain.com than email@192.168.1.1

Dynamic IP: 

One that is not static and could change at any time. This type of IP is issued to you from a pool of IP addresses allocated by your ISP or DHCP Server. This is for a large number of customers that do not require the same IP all the time for a variety of reasons. Your computer will automatically get this number as it logs on to the network and saves you the trouble of having to know details regarding the specific network configurations. This number can be assigned to anyone using a dial-up connection, Wireless and High Speed Internet connections. If you need to run your own email server or web server, it would be best to have a static IP.

Static IP: 

One that is fixed and never changes. This is in contrast to a dynamic IP which may change at any time. Most ISP's a single static IP or a block of static IP's for a few extra bucks a month.

IP version 4: 

Currently used by most network devices. However, with more and more computers accessing the internet, IPv4 IPs are running out quickly. Just like in a city, addresses have to be created for new neighborhoods but, if your neighborhood gets too large, you will have to come up with an entire new pool of addresses. IPv4 is limited to 4,294,967,296 IPs.

IP version 5: 

This is an experimental protocol for UNIX based systems. In keeping with standard UNIX (a computer Operating System) release conventions, all odd-numbered versions are considered experimental. It was never intended to be used by the general public.

IP version 6: 

The replacement for the aging IPv4. The estimated number of unique IPs for IPv6 is 340,282,366,920,938,463,463,374,607,431,768,211,456 or 2^128.

The old and current standard of IPs was this: 192.168.100.100 the new way can be written different ways but means the same and are all valid:

• 1080:0000:0000:0000:0000:0034:0000:417A
• 1080:0:0:0:0:34:0:417A
• 1080::34:0:417A

Read more: http://www.whatismyip.com/#ixzz0opZFZYsI

Router Commands Overview

Router Commands Overview

In this section you will learn about the router commands, configurations, privileged mode commands, routing protocols, cisco labs and network configurations.

There are hundreds of basic and advance level commands of a router. It is not easy to remember all the commands. But some commands are frequently used and can be remembered with some practice. I have provided a list of the most commonly used commands based on their features and usage.

You will find here some basic terminology of a router.

Routing: Routing is a process of moving the data (packets) through an inter network. Routing performs the two basic tasks. Define the paths for a packet and then forward the packets on the basis of defined paths. Routing can also be defined as the communication between two or more logically and physical networks and this communication (packet transfer) is brought by a router.

First of all you should remember the keyboard shortcuts of a router.

Keyboard Shortcuts

CTRL-N - show next command

CTRL-P - show previous command

SHIFT-CTRL-6 – Break

Configuring the Router

You will be able to learn the basic commands for configuring a router.

sh running-config - details the running configuration file (RAM)

sh startup-config - displays the configuration stored in NVRAM

setup - Will start the the automatic setup; the same as when you first boot the router

config t - use to execute configuration commands from the terminal

config mem - executes configuration commands stored in NVRAM; copies startup-config to running-config

config net - used to retrieve configuration info from a TFTP server

copy running-config startup-config - copies saved config in running config (RAM) to NVRAM or "write memory" for IOS under ver.11

copy startup-config running-config - copies from non-volatile (NVRAM) to current running config (RAM)

boot system flash - tells router which IOS file in flash to boot from
boot system tftp - tells router which IOS file on the tftp server to boot from
boot system rom - tell router to boot from ROM at next boot
copy flash tftp - Copies flash to tftp server
copy tftp flash - Restores flash from tftp server
copy run tftp - Copies the current running-config to tftp server
copy tftp run - Restores the running-config from tftp server

General Commands

Here is a list of the general commands. These are the basic level commands and most commonly used
no shutdown - (enables the interface)
reload - restarts the router
sh ver - Cisco IOS version, uptime of router, how the router started, where system was loaded from, the interfaces the POST found, and the configuration register
sh clock - shows date and time on router
sh history - shows the history of your commands
sh debug - shows all debugging that is currently enabled
no debug all - turns off all debugging
sh users - shows users connected to router
sh protocols - shows which protocols are configured
banner motd # Your customized message here # - Set/change banner
hostname - use to configure the hostname of the router
clear counters - clear interface counters

Privileged Mode commands of a router

Learn how to work in the privileged mode of a router.
enable - get to privileged mode
disable - get to user mode
enable password - sets privileged mode password
enable secret - sets encrypted privileged mode password
Setting Passwords on router
Here you will be able to learn how to set the password on a router.
enable secret - set encrypted password for privileged access
enable password - set password for privileged access (used when there is no enable secret and when using older software)
Setting the password for console access:
(config)#line console 0
(config-line)#login
(config-line)#password
Set password for virtual terminal (telnet) access (password must be set to access router through telnet):
(config)#line vty 0 4
(config-line)#login
(config-line)#password
Set password for auxiliary (modem) access:
(config)#line aux 0
(config-line)#login
(config-line)#password

Router Processes & Statistics

By these command you can see the statistics and different processes of the router.
sh processes - shows active processes running on router
sh process cpu - shows cpu statistics
sh mem - shows memory statistics
sh flash - describes the flash memory and displays the size of files and the amount of free flash memory
sh buffers - displays statistics for router buffer pools; shows the size of the Small, Middle, Big, Very Big, Large and Huge Buffers
sh stacks - shows reason for last reboot, monitors the stack use of processes and interrupts routines

IP Commands

Here is a list of the IP Commands
Configure IP on an interface:
int serial 0
ip address 157.89.1.3 255.255.0.0
int eth 0
ip address 2008.1.1.4 255.255.255.0

Other IP Commands:

sh ip route - view ip routing table
ip route [administrative_distance] - configure a static IP route
ip route 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 - sets default gateway
ip classless - use with static routing to allow packets destined for unrecognized subnets to use the best possible route
sh arp - view arp cache; shows MAC address of connected routers
ip address 2.2.2.2 255.255.255.0 secondary - configure a 2nd ip address on an interface
sh ip protocol

CDP Commands (Cisco Discovery Protocol uses layer 2 multicast over a SNAP-capable link to send data):

sh cdp neighbor - shows directly connected neighbors
sh cdp int - shows which interfaces are running CDP
sh cdp int eth 0/0 - show CDP info for specific interface
sh cdp entry - shows CDP neighbor detail
cdp timer 120 - change how often CDP info is sent (default cdp timer is 60)
cp holdtime 240 - how long to wait before removing a CDP neighbor (default CDP holdtime is 180)
sh cdp run - shows if CDP turned on
no cdp run - turns off CDP for entire router (global config)
no cdp enable - turns off CDP on specific interface

IPX Commands

Enable IPX on router:
ipx routing
Configure IPX + IPX-RIP on an int:
int ser 0
ipx network 4A

Other Commands:

sh ipx route - shows IPX routing table
sh ipx int e0 - shows ipx address on int
sh ipx servers - shows SAP table
sh ipx traffic - view traffic statistics
debug ipx routing activity - debugs IPS RIP packets
debug ipx sap - debugs SAP packets

Routing Protocols

RIP, IGPR and OSPF are the routing protocols and here is a list of the commands for the working on the routing protocols.
Configure RIP:
router rip
network 157.89.0.0
network 208.1.1.0

Other RIP Commands:
debug ip rip - view RIP debugging info

Configure IGRP:
router IGRP 200
network 157.89.0.0
network 208.1.1.0

Other IGRP Commands:
debug ip igrp events - view IGRP debugging info
debug ip igrp transactions - view IGRP debugging info

Access Lists
Here is a list of the Access list command of a router.
sh ip int ser 0 - use to view which IP access lists are applies to which int
sh ipx int ser 0 - use to view which IPX access lists are applies to which int
sh appletalk int ser 0 - use to view which AppleTalk access lists are applies to which int

View access lists:
sh access-lists
sh ip access-lists
sh ipx access-lists
sh appletalk access-lists

Apply standard IP access list to int eth 0:
access-list 1 deny 200.1.1.0 0.0.0.255
access-list 1 permit any
int eth 0
ip access-group 1 in

Apply Extended IP access list to int eth 0:
access-list 100 deny tcp host 1.1.1.1 host 2.2.2.2 eq 23
access-list 100 deny tcp 3.3.3.0 0.0.0.255 any eq 80
int eth 0
ip access-group 100 out

Apply Standard IPX access list to int eth 0:
access-list 800 deny 7a 8000
access-list 800 permit -1
int eth 0
ipx access-group 800 out

Apply Standard IPX access list to int eth 0:
access-list 900 deny sap any 3378 -1
access-list 900 permit sap any all -1
int eth 0
ipx access-group 900 out

WAN Configurations Commands

Networking over WAN is the main functionality of a router. The most common use of a router is for the WAN connectivity. Here is a list of the commands for the different methods of the WAN connectivity.

PPP Configuration

Point to point protocol is a method for the WAN connectivity and you will find here some commands of PPP.
encapsulation pppppp authentication
ppp chap hostname
ppp pap sent-username
sh int ser 0 - use to view encapsulation on the interface

Frame-Relay Configuration

One of the methods for the WAN connectivity is the Frame Relay. Find here some basic commands for the WAN connectivity through Frame Relay.
encapsulation frame-relay ietf - use IETF when setting up a frame-relay network between a Ciscorouter and a non-Cisco router
frame-relay lmi-type ansi - LMI types are Cisco, ANSI, Q933A; Cisco is the default; LMI type is auto-sensed in IOS v11.2 and up
frame-relay map ip 3.3.3.3 100 broadcast - if inverse ARP won't work, map Other IP to Your DLCI # (local)
keep alive 10 - use to set keep alive
sh int ser 0 - use to show DLCI, LMI, and encapsulation info
sh frame-relay pvc - shows the configured DLCI's; shows PVC traffic stats
sh frame-relay map - shows route mapssh frame-relay lmi - shows LMI info

Miscellaneous Commands

In the last but not least here is a list of the some miscellaneous and useful commands
sh controller t1 - shows status of T1 lines
sh controller serial 1 - use to determine if DCE or DTE device
(config-if)#clock rate 6400 - set clock on DCE (bits per second)
(config-if)#bandwidth 64 - set bandwidth (kilobits)

What is Ethernet ?

What is Ethernet ?

In this section you will learn about the lan terminology, basic ethernet networking overview, a general introduction to LAN, introduction to IEEE, lan topologies, wan standards. You can also find these categories in this site such as network tutorials, computer networking guide, what is networking, tech study guides, topologies, what is data recovery, wireless communication, computer interview questions and network certification. The IEEE standards have been developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO). The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) in 1985 produced a series of standards for the Local Area Networks, which are called IEEE 802 standards.

These standards have been accepted widely throughout the IT world. One of the IEEE 802 standards, the IEEE 802.3 is known as “Ethernet”. Ethernet is the most widely used LAN technology. Ethernet was developed by Xerox corporations in 1972 and it was the first LAN.

According to the ISO standards allows manufactures to produce the devices and equipments, which are guaranteed to operate anywhere.

The Ethernet in its simplest form uses a passive bus that operates at 10 Mbps. The bus is formed from the co-axial cable, which connects all the PCs in the LAN.

A single LAN may have 1024 attached computers, although in the real practice most LANS have fewer computers than this number. One or more segments of the co-axial cable are attached to end to end to create the Ethernet Cable Segment. Each segment is terminated by 50 ohm resistors.


In today’s IT world the reliable and timely access to the information has become vital. Today coworkers thousands of miles apart from each other can share data, voice, video etc with the fractions of seconds. Similarly a larger number of the coworkers can review the research data simultaneously. The Internet allows businesses to share information and resources with their customers.

Ethernet is a communication protocol that is embedded in software and hardware devices that intended. Ethernet has become the standard computer networking protocol with the help of the Xerox, Intel and Digital

A basic LAN consists of the following components.

• Two or more computers.
• Network Interface card or LAN Card in each PC.
• Ethernet cable (Cat5, UTP/SPT) cable to connect the two computers.
• A hub, switch or router to route or direct the network traffic.
• Software for the communication/computer networking.

A network interface card (NIC) is attached and installed in each PC and is assigned a unique address. An Ethernet cable is used to connect two computers; Ethernet cable has RJ45connectors at both ends. There can be two scenarios 1. Two computers can directly connect with each other or 2. Each computer is directly connected with the hub/switch and hence communication occurs in the network. The hub or switch acts as relay.

Computer Network can be wireless. Despite of using Ethernet cable for the communication, Wireless Network Interface cards use radio waves to communicate with the wireless switch or hub. A small antenna is used in the wireless NICs, switches and hubs. Although the wireless networks are more easy to use as compared to the cabled networks, but more configurations and extra care is required to setup and run a wireless network.

The alternate technologies to Ethernet are “Token Ring”, which is used in the Ring Topologiesnetworks. Token Ring is designed by the IBM and ATM. In ATM networking, devices are connected with each other over a very large distance (thus forms the WAN), and behaves like LANs.

Ethernet is a well established and widely used network standard for small to medium sized Ethernet networks as well as for other networks. Ethernet has been used over the 3 decades and forms a very excellent networking/communication environment.

Ethernet Terms

Ethernet follows a simple set of rules. To understand these rules its important to understand the following terminology.

• Node – The devices that are attached to the segments are nodes.
• Frame – The nodes (computers or network devices) communicates in the form of short messages that are known as frames. The frames are chunks of information with variable size.
• Segment – A single shared medium is known as a Ethernet segment.
• Medium – The Ethernet devices are attached to a common medium. The frames of the data travel along with that medium. This medium can be coaxial cable. Today most commonly used communication mediums are UTP/STP cable, fiber optic cables.

Frames are analogous in human language. We have some rules for constructed the sentences. The Ethernet protocol specifies a set of rules for constructing the frames. The frames length varies. Each frame must contain source and destination address for the identification of the recipient and the send of the message. The nodes can be uniquely and easily identified. Each Ethernet devices must have a single unique address.

Compute networking standards has brought a revolution in the network computing and it made the communication very easy and standarized. Now every computer and networking devices has to to follow the same standard to communicate with each other.

Microsoft Certifications

Microsoft 

MCSE

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is designed for the professionals who are some requirements of analyzing the business, designing, making infrastructure, and implementing the securities at certain levels. MCSE is based on the Microsoft Windows 2000 platform and Windows NT platform (though many of the NT exams have been obsolete now). The Windows 2003 server has been merged into the MCSE exam.

MCSE certification does not retire but the newer versions are released by the Microsoft after few years. So the candidate has to be upgraded himself/herself with these latest exams. There are no specific requirements for the MCSE certifications. Those candidates who have one year experience in managing a computer network, network or desktop operating systems, will be considered suitable for this exam. Job descriptions and roles including after achieving the MCSE are Systems engineer, Network Engineer, Network Consultant, and Systems Analyst.

There is a 7 exams pass requirement for this certification and the candidates how are holding the MCSE 2000, are required to give 2-upgrade exams. By passing these exams you can achieve Windows Server 2000 MCSE exam.

Introduction to the Network Communication Devices

Introduction to the Network Communication Devices

In this tutorial you will learn get the basic introduction to network devices such as nic adapters, routers, hubs, switches, modems, communication cables, lan/wan routers, gateway and other devices. A network is consists of a larger number of the communication devices. The simplest device that is used in the communication is the NIC adapter which is attached with the every computer in a network. If you want to build a LAN, you will need to have computers, hubs, switches, network adapters, UTP/STP cables, routers, internal/external modems, connectors, cable testers and clipping tool.

On the other hand if you need to build WAN, you will need to have routers, switches, dedicated or leased telephone lines such as ISDN lines, frame relay connection and other types of wan communication connections.

There are different communication mediums such as Ethernet cables, copper wire, coaxial cable, fiber optic cables, leased telephone lines and ever air is also a communication medium for the satellite communication. The most common networking medium is the LAN is the Ethernet cable (UTP/STP), which is used in the star topology. Hub is a central device of a network and every computer in a network is directly connected with the hub.

If the hub fails to work, the communication between the computers stops till the hub again starts working. Hub broadcasts the data to its every port, and then finding the destined computer, the data sent toward it. The switch is an advance form of the hub similar in functions but the advanced switches has a switching table in them. A advanced switch stores the MAC address of every attached computer and the data is only sent to the destined computer, unlike the hubs where data is sent to all ports. A router is a key device in the internet communication and wan communication system. A router has software called routing table and the source and destination addresses are stored in the routing table.

A router connects two logically and physically different networks. Router finds the IP address of the next hop (next router) and the data is sent toward it and so on. The well known routers developing companies are Cisco systems, Nortel, DLink and others. Every ISP, banks, corporate offices and multinational companies use routers for LAN and WAN communications and communication in their private networks. A gateway can be device or software in a network.

A gateway device connects the LAN with the internet. A gateway is directly exposed to the internet so it should be securely configured and in and out traffic should be monitored. If you are using DSL connection, you must need a DSL modem in your network. The telephone line is connected with the DSL modem and UTP/STP cable attaches your computer with the DSL modem. Modems are the devices that are used to modulate and demodulate the data. They convert analogue signals to digital and digital signals to analogue so that signals can travel on the telephone lines.

There are certain types of the cables that are used to connect two or more computers in a network. Fiber optic cable acts as a backbone between the ISPs and corporate offices. Data travels at the speed of light on the fiber optic cables. The cost and the installation cost of the fiber optic cable is very high but it is becoming very popular in the home networking and LANs also. In the local area networking, 10baseT/CAT5 cable is most commonly in use.

A server is a computer in network that provides services to the client computers such as logon requests processing, files access and storage, internet access, printing access and many other types of services. Servers are mostly equipped with extra hardware such as plenty of external memory (RAM), more data store capacity (hard disks), high processing speed and other features.

How to Configure a Network?

How to Configure a Network?

In this section you will learn how to configure a network, peer to peer, client server, workstation, server, basic data communication.

Peer to Peer network model

Before configuring a computer network, you have to decide that, which networking model you require. There are two main types of network models. Peer to peer and client-server network model. In the peer to peer network model you simply use the same Workgroup for all the computers and a unique name for each computer.

Additionally, you will have to give a unique IP address of the same class A, B, or C for all the computers in your network and its related subnet mask e.g if you decide to use class A IP address for your three computers in your Peer to Peer network then your IP address/Subnet mask settings can be as follows.

Computer Name IP Address Subnet Mask Workgroup

PC1 100.100.100.1 255.0.0.0 Officenetwork
PC2 100.100.100.2 255.0.0.0 Officenetwork
PC3 100.100.100.3 255.0.0.0 Officenetwor

Please note that the above example is for only illustration purpose so you can choose any IP address, computer name and workgroup name of your interest.

For doing this right click on My Computer and then click Properties then go to the Network Identification section and set these.

In a peer to peer network all computers acts as a client because there is not centralized server. Peer to peer network is used where not security is required in the network.


If a computer fails to work then all other computers work normally in peer to peer network.

Client/Server Network Model

In the client/server network model a computer plays a centralized role and is known as a server all other computers in the network are known as clients. All client computers access the server simultaneously for files, database, docs, spreadsheets, web pages and resources like hard diver, printer, fax modem, CD/DVD ROM and others. In other words, all the client computes depends on the server and if server fails to respond or crash then networking/communication between the server and the client computes stops.

If you want to configure a client-server network model then first prepare the server. Install Windows 2000 or Windows 2003 Server from the CD on the server computer and make a domain. You can create a domain by this command on the Run “DCPROMO”. You can give this command once you install the server successfully. After you give the DCPROMO command you will be asked for a unique domain name. All the client computers will use the same unique domain name for becoming the part of this domain. This command will install the active directory on the server, DNS and other required things. A step by step wizard will run and will guide you for the rest of the steps. Make sure that a network cable is plugged in the LAN card of the server when you run the DCPROMO.exe command.

When the Active directory is properly installed on the server, restart the server. You can create network users on the server computer and also name/label the network resources like computers/printers etc.

Once you install the server successfully now come to the client computers. Install Windows 2000 professional on your all client computers. Once you install the Windows 2000 professional on the clients the next step is to make this computer (client computer) a part of the network.

Configuration Steps

1. Choose a unique name for each client computer
2. Choose unique IP address for each computer and relevant.
3. Use the same domain name for all client PCs.

Network/System administrators are required to do these administrative tasks on the server and client computers. Any shared resources on the network either on the server or the clients can be access through the My Network Places in the Windows 2000 platform. There is another way to connect to the shared resources by giving this command in the run \\ComputerName\SharedDriveLetter.

Network configurations steps can be implemented by right clicking the My Computer>Properties>

For giving the IP address you will have to right click on the My Network places>properties>Local Area Connection>Properties>Internet Protocols (TCP/IP)>Properties and then give the IP address and subnet mask of the same range and class for all the computers in the network.

If you are unable to configure your home network you may have to use an IT company such as this IT consulting Burlington Company.

Citrix Certifications

Citrix Certifications

Citrix CCA, CCEA and CCIA are among the hottest IT certifications. These certifications offer the knowledge of the Citrix products and technology. Citrix products allow to access the server based applications regardless of the operating system being used on the server side. Citrix Administrators are required to have the strong knowledge in the Windows based operating systems and the Citrix products. According to the Citrix website, 90% of the top 500 fortune companies are using the Citrix products.

These products provide the centralized management of the IT infrastructure and reduce the overall operational cost. The certifications are geared towards the IT professionals who want to deliver the application solutions in a complex IT environment and optimizing the performance of the WAN applications. Citrix offers the following certifications.

CCA (Citrix Certified Administrator)

CCA certification focuses on the knowledge and skills that are required for the implementation of the Citrix products in an existing network. CCA provides excellent skills to the network administrators and independent consultants. The CCA tracks includes Presentation Server 4, Access Gateway 4, Certified Administrator for Citrix NetScaler 8, Certified Administrator for EdgeSight 4, Certified Administrator for Citrix WANScaler 4, Certified Administrator for XenServer Enterprise Edition 4 and Certified Administrator for Password Manager 4.

CCSP (Citrix Certified Sales Professional)

CCSP certification certifies the sales professionals and it is geared towards the individuals who sell the Citrix products. Citrix certifies that you have the sound knowledge about its products. CCSP exam offers three separate tracks such as Windows Application Delivery, Web Application Delivery and Desktop Delivery.

CCEA (Citrix Certified Enterprise Administrator)

Attaining the CCEA certification is the next step to the CCA certification. You need to pass the four additional exams in order to get the CCEA status.

You must pass the following two exams:

1. Exam 910, Citrix Resource Management Services
2. Exam 950, Citrix Nfuse Administration

Then, you need to pass one of these two exams:

1. Exam 911, Citrix Resource Manager
2. Exam 921, Citrix Installation Manager

Finally, you must also pass one of these three exams:

1. Exam 920, Citrix Installation Management Services
2. Exam 930, Secure ICA and Security
3. Exam 940, Load Balancing Service

After passing the required exams, you status will be upgraded to a CCEA.

CCI (Citrix Certified Instructor)

CCI certification is designed for the individuals who have the good knowledge of the Citrix Access suite and the operating systems. In order to delivering the lectures at the Citrix certified institutes, you need to earn a CCI certification. The requirements of earning the CCI status includes attend the Citrix approved “Train the Trainer course”, you must hold a current certification in Windows NT, 2000 or Unix based on your plan to instruct on, attend the CCA course and pass the CCA exam with more than 80% marks and you will get the Citrix Certified Instructor status.

(CCIA) Citrix Certified Integration Architect

CCIA exam is designed for the individuals who are responsible for designing, analysis, and implementing Citrix technologies in the IT infrastructure of small to large organizations.

CISSP Certification

CISSP Certification

CISSP stands for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional. This is an advanced level certification that is geared towards the security professionals who have at least four years of experience in the field of information security and detailed understanding of the security technologies and concepts. ISC2 (the International Information System Security Certification Consortium) promotes the CISSP exam. ISC2 is a stepping stone on the way to CISSP and SSCP.

The exam lasts for the six hours and consist of 250 multiple choice questions on the major information security topics including cryptography, access control systems, security management, designing and implementations of the security policies, physical security, internet security, telecommunications, risk analysis, malware, patch management, antivirus, security architecture, firewall, data center, law investigations and implementations of the other security technologies.

The exam cost is $450 and it lasts for the three years. Every three years, the recertification is required with the 120 hours of continued education. The recertification fees in $85. CISSP candidates must agree to the CISSP code of ethics. Due to the long length of the exam and broad range of the coverage, this exam is considered as the somewhat difficult. The SSCP exam is relatively easy as compared to the CISSP exam.

CISSP certified are responsible for implementing the security policies, procedures and protecting the organization’s assets from internal and external security threats including hacking attacks, viruses, spyware, malware, adware, phishing attacks, intruders and from unauthorized access to the network resources.

CISSP is regarded as the primary security certification for the IT professionals around the world. The IT professionals who want to earn the CISSP certification must have a vast practical experience in the information security field. There are many online resources for learning the CISSP.

The seven information domains for the CISSP exam are administration, access control, auditing/monitoring, cryptography, application and system development, business continuity and disaster recovery planning, operations security, physical security, Law/investigations, security management practices, security architecture and models and data communications/telecommunication, network and internet security.

The job roles include security consultant, security professional and the job of the CISSP certified professional can call in any kind of organization from small to multinational organizations. CISSP is a senior level exam, which is designed to access the candidate’s skills of implementing and maintaining the information security infrastructure in a small to corporate level multination organization. The exam certifies your knowledge, skills and expertise of managing the security related issues, business management practices, physical security, cyber crime laws, cryptography and data communications.

CIW Certifications

CIW Certifications

CIW (Certified Internet Webmaster) by Prosoft is a vendor neutral certification track that is designed to access the knowledge and skills of the individuals about the internet technologies, e-commerce, securities, networking, HTML, XHTML, web application development, database development, e-business solutions, website design and administration. CIW Certifications are not limited to a specific company’s product as Microsoft, Cisco, IBP and Comptia etc. CIW has become the industry standard for validating the skills of the webmasters throughout the world. A certified webmaster, designer and developer have better chance for getting the business from the worldwide customers. CIW certification program is the world’s faster growing certification track.

This article provides the basic overview of the CIW certification tracks and the job roles for the CIW certified professionals. CIW validates the skills of candidates at the Associate, Professional and Master levels. CIW is being endorsed and supported by the world’s largest governing authorities. The job roles for the CIW certified professionals are based on the internationally accepted standards. CIW certified are in high demand in small to big enterprise level organizations.

CIW Associate

CIW possesses the skills and hands on experience on the web technologies, network infrastructure, HTML and web authorization.

CIW Professional

CIW Professional status is acquired by passing any of the eight CIW job roles exams. At least two exams are required to pass to earn the CIW professional status. CIW Professional certification can be earned in the website design, server administration, security, database and application development.

CIW Associate Design Specialist

To earn a CIW Associate Design Specialist status you need to pass at least two exams. The certification is based on the web design techniques and tools.

Master CIW Designer

Master CIW Designer certification is geared towards the web designer, web marketing specialist, art director and creative director. The job roles for the Master CIW Designer include developing and maintaining the websites using the scripting languages, digital media and standard technologies for B2B and B2C websites.

CIW Security Analyst

CIW Security Analysts are responsible for protecting the assets of an organization from the internal and external threats. You need to pass at least one CIW certification or hold a valid network administration certified to become a CIW Security Analyst.

Master CIW Web Site Manager

This certification is geared towards the web site managers who posses the multiple, cross-functional web skills that are required to manage an online business. Master CIW website Manager Posses the skills in the server administration, scripting languages, basic computer networking, website authorization and website design techniques.

Master CIW Administrator

This certification is designed for the professional who want to make their career in the computer networking, server or intranet administration. Master CIW Administrator is responsible for developing the network infrastructure of an organization, monitoring and network performance and security the computer network.

Master CIW Enterprise Developer

This certification is designed for the individuals who want to build the enterprise level applications and implement e-business solutions for the corporate organizations. Master CIW Enterprise Developers posses the advanced level skills in the programming languages and in the database management.

SUN Certifications

SUN Certifications

Sun certification is a professional certification program by the Sun Microsystems. Sun systems offer a wide range of the certifications from the entry level to high level. These certifications are highly reputable and recognized industry wide. The common certifications are SCBCD, SCDJWS, SCJD, SCJP, SCMAD, SCNA10, SCNA9, SCSA10, SCSA9, SE, SCMAD, SCSSSE, SSBB and SCWCD. The sun certifications are particularly targeted towards the Java technologies sun Solaris operating system and Java programming language. In this article, you will find the basic overview of the some of the most common Sun certifications.

Sun Certified Associate for the Java Platform

This certification is designed for the IT students who want to become the Java programmers or programs manager and who wish to work in the software related industry.

Sun Certified Java Programmer

SCJP is an entry level certification and is a prerequisite for many advanced level certifications. It has been designed to assess the skills of the individuals about the Java programming languages, network programming, variables, GUI and others.

Sun Certified System Administrator for Solaris

The Sun Certified Systems Administrator for Solaris focus on the in depth knowledge about the Sun Solaris operating system and Solaris commands management, network administration, user management, security, user creation, system backup and restore.

Sun Certified Business Component Developer for J2EE Platform

The Sun Certified Business Component Developer for J2EE platform is focused towards the development of the Java components, distributed applications by using J2EE platform, Java beans and others. It is an advanced level certification, which requires that the candidate should be Sun Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform.

Sun Certified Java Developer

Sun Certified Java Developer is an advanced level certification. This certification is targeted towards the individuals who want to develop real world commercial application by using the Java technologies and platforms.

Sun Certified Mobile Application Developer (SCMAD)

Sun Certified Mobile Application Developer certification is geared towards the individuals who want to develop mobile applications by using the Java platform and technologies such as WMA, MMAPI, CLDC, MIDP and JTWI.

Sun Certified Network Administrator for Solaris

Sun Certified Network Administrator for Solaris certifications focuses on the networking skills of the candidates. It is recommended that the candidate should have 3-4 years prior experience before appearing in this certification. SCNA assess the networking skills, Solaris system administration, configuring Solaris IP filtering, network administration, management and network security.

Sun Certified Solaris Security Administrator

Sun Certified Solaris Security Administrator (SCSECA) concentrates the security features of the Sun Solaris operating system including Solaris zones, cryptography, rights management, user managements and installing/configuring the additional security features.

Sun Certified Enterprise Architect for Java Technology

Sun Certified Enterprise Architect for the Java EE Platform (SCEA) certification is an advanced level certification by the Sun Microsoft, which certifies the skills of the software architect. The candidate should have the basic concepts of the Java technology, UML design project by using the Java EE technology and essay exam regarding the design project.

Sun Certified Web Component Developer for J2EE

PlatformThe Sun Certified Web Component Developer (SCWCD) certification is focused on the Java technologies and components including Java Servlets and JSP (Java Server Pages).

Comptia Certifications

Comptia Certifications

IT has major involvement in the businesses around the world. Comptia certifications have earned a great repute in the IT industry and they pave the ways for the IT professionals to build the sold career. Comtia (Computing Technologies Industries Association) is a non profit trade association founded in 1982. It has been an association of more than 8000 IT companies. The certifications by Comptia are categorized as entry level and they does not require upgradation. These certifications include A+, Network+, Server+, Linux+, Security+, CDIA+, CTT, Project+ and HTI+ etc. Comptia offers a wide range of the certifications that meets the requirements of the IT sector.

A+

A+ Exam is comprised on the computer hardware and operating system technologies. A+ validates the skills of the computer support persons. It confirms the ability of the individuals to perform certain tasks, which includes installations, configurations, maintenance, diagnosing and computer networking. Many technology companies have made A+ certification essential for their computer technicians. The technical roles for the A+ certified professionals are PC technician, PC Support specialist, Desktop support technician and help desk professional.

Network+

Network+ is a vendor neutral certification that validates the networking skills of the professionals. It validates the Network+ certified people can install, configure, troubleshoot the computer network devices, applications, protocols and services. It is recommended that Network+ candidates should have at least nine months of experience in the network support and administration and A+ certification. Many corporations such as Microsoft, Nortel, Novell, Cisco, HP and Lotus recognize Comptia as the part of their certification track. The job roles for the Network+ certified include network administrators, Systems administrators and Systems support technician.

Server+

Server+ is a vendor neutral certification for the individuals with the more than 18 months of experience in the Industry Standard Server Architecture Technology. Server+ certifies the knowledge in the technical areas such as RAID, SCSI, disaster recovery and multiple CPUs. It is recommend that Server+ candidates should have A+ certification.

Security+

Security+ validates the knowledge of communication security, cryptography, operation security, infrastructure security and general security concepts. It is recommend that Security+ candidates should have at least 2 years of practical experience in the computer networking and on securities. Many big corporations including Sun, IBP, Hitachi, Motorola and Symantec recommend Security+ certifications for their employees.

Linux+

Linux+ is a vendor netural certification that validates the candidate’s skills and practical knowledge of Linux. Linux+ can explain the fundamentals of the Linux system. Industry recognizes the Linux+ individuals for managing the Linux based clients and server systems.

CTT+

CTT+ is a vendor neutral certification that is designed for the training professionals in all industries. CTT+ validates the instructor’s skills that include preparation, presentation, communication and evaluation in a classroom environment.

CDIA stands for Certified Document Imaging Architech and it validates the skills and knowledge of the professionals who deliver the document imaging solutions and in the design, plan and management of the imaging systems.

Cisco Certifications

Cisco Certifications

Cisco Systems launched the widely respected certification programs for the computer network professionals, IT managers, technical support executives and for the IT professionals. Cisco Certified Professionals are among the highly paid salaried persons in the world. Cisco validates the individual’ achievements and technical expertise, which gives them respect in the IT industry. The tests are administered by the Pearson VUE. There are three levels of certifications Associate, Professional and Expert.

In addition to the levels, there are six different paths such as routing and switching, network security and service provider, storage networking, voice and design. Candidates can select the path according to their job roles and industry. There are specialization tracks in the focused area to increase the knowledge of a specific technology such as IP telephony, wireless and security.

Routing and switching is the most popular certification track so far. In this article you will get the basic overview of some of the most common Cisco Certifications and certification tracks.

General Certifications

• CCNA
• CCNP
• CCIE
• CCDP
• CCDA
• CCSP
• CCIP

Wireless LAN Certifications

• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Design Specialist
• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Field Specialist
• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Sales Specialist

VPN AND SECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

• Cisco Firewall Specialist
• Cisco IOS Security Specialist
• Cisco IPS Specialist
• Cisco Information Security Specialist
• Cisco Security Sales Specialist
• Cisco Network Admission Control Specialist
• Cisco Security Solutions and Design Specialist
• Cisco VPN Specialist

IP Communications Certifications

• Cisco Advanced IP Communications Sales Specialist
• Cisco IP Communications Express Specialist
• Cisco IP Communications Express Sales Specialist
• Cisco IP Contact Center Express Specialist
• Cisco IP Telephony Design Specialist
• Cisco Rich Media Communications Specialist
• Cisco Unity Design Specialist
• Cisco Unity Support Specialist

Data Center Certifications

• Cisco Data Center Networking Infrastructure Design Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Networking Infrastructure Support Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Networking Sales Specialist
• Data Center Storage Networking
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Design Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Support Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Sales Specialist

Advanced Routing and Switching

• Cisco Routing and Switching Field Specialist
• Cisco Routing and Switching Sales Specialist
• Cisco Routing and Switching Solutions Specialist

IT Certifications

IT Certifications

• Cisco
• Microsoft
• Sun
• Comptia
• CIW
• ICS2
• Citrix

Cisco Certifications

Cisco Systems launched the widely respected certification programs for the computer network professionals, IT managers, technical support executives and for the IT professionals. Cisco Certified Professionals are among the highly paid salaried persons in the world. Cisco validates the individual’ achievements and technical expertise, which gives them respect in the IT industry. The tests are administered by the Pearson VUE. There are three levels of certifications Associate, Professional and Expert.

In addition to the levels, there are six different paths such as routing and switching, network security and service provider, storage networking, voice and design. Candidates can select the path according to their job roles and industry. There are specialization tracks in the focused area to increase the knowledge of a specific technology such as IP telephony, wireless and security.

Routing and switching is the most popular certification track so far. In this article you will get the basic overview of some of the most common Cisco Certifications and certification tracks.

General Certifications

• CCNA
• CCNP
• CCIE
• CCDP
• CCDA
• CCSP
• CCIP

Wireless LAN Certifications

• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Design Specialist
• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Field Specialist
• Cisco Advanced Wireless LAN Sales Specialist

VPN AND SECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

• Cisco Firewall Specialist
• Cisco IOS Security Specialist
• Cisco IPS Specialist
• Cisco Information Security Specialist
• Cisco Security Sales Specialist
• Cisco Network Admission Control Specialist
• Cisco Security Solutions and Design Specialist
• Cisco VPN Specialist

IP Communications Certifications

• Cisco Advanced IP Communications Sales Specialist
• Cisco IP Communications Express Specialist
• Cisco IP Communications Express Sales Specialist
• Cisco IP Contact Center Express Specialist
• Cisco IP Telephony Design Specialist
• Cisco Rich Media Communications Specialist
• Cisco Unity Design Specialist
• Cisco Unity Support Specialist

Data Center Certifications

• Cisco Data Center Networking Infrastructure Design Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Networking Infrastructure Support Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Networking Sales Specialist
• Data Center Storage Networking
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Design Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Support Specialist
• Cisco Data Center Storage Networking Sales Specialist

Advanced Routing and Switching

• Cisco Routing and Switching Field Specialist
• Cisco Routing and Switching Sales Specialist
• Cisco Routing and Switching Solutions Specialist

Microsoft 

MCSE

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is designed for the professionals who are some requirements of analyzing the business, designing, making infrastructure, and implementing the securities at certain levels. MCSE is based on the Microsoft Windows 2000 platform and Windows NT platform (though many of the NT exams have been obsolete now). The Windows 2003 server has been merged into the MCSE exam.

MCSE certification does not retire but the newer versions are released by the Microsoft after few years. So the candidate has to be upgraded himself/herself with these latest exams. There are no specific requirements for the MCSE certifications. Those candidates who have one year experience in managing a computer network, network or desktop operating systems, will be considered suitable for this exam. Job descriptions and roles including after achieving the MCSE are Systems engineer, Network Engineer, Network Consultant, and Systems Analyst.

There is a 7 exams pass requirement for this certification and the candidates how are holding the MCSE 2000, are required to give 2-upgrade exams. By passing these exams you can achieve Windows Server 2000 MCSE exam.

Network Topologies

Network Topologies

Bus, ring, star, and other types of network topology

In computer networking, topology refers to the layout of connected devices. This article introduces the standard topologies of networking.

Topology in Network Design

Think of a topology as a network's virtual shape or structure. This shape does not necessarily correspond to the actual physical layout of the devices on the network. For example, the computers on a home LAN may be arranged in a circle in a family room, but it would be highly unlikely to find a ring topology there.

Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types:

• bus
• ring
• star
• tree
• mesh

        More complex networks can be built as hybrids of two or more of the above basic topologies.

Bus Topology

Bus networks (not to be confused with the system bus of a computer) use a common backbone to connect all devices. A single cable, the backbone functions as a shared communication medium that devices attach or tap into with an interface connector. A device wanting to communicate with another device on the network sends a broadcast message onto the wire that all other devices see, but only the intended recipient actually accepts and processes the message.

Ethernet bus topologies are relatively easy to install and don't require much cabling compared to the alternatives. 10Base-2 ("ThinNet") and 10Base-5 ("ThickNet") both were popular Ethernet cabling options many years ago for bus topologies. However, bus networks work best with a limited number of devices. If more than a few dozen computers are added to a network bus, performance problems will likely result. In addition, if the backbone cable fails, the entire network effectively becomes unusable.

This diagram illustrates the bus network topology. A bus topology such as 10Base-2 or 10Base-5 Ethernet uses a single communication backbone for all devices.

Ring Topology

In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbors for communication purposes. All messages travel through a ring in the same direction (either "clockwise" or "counterclockwise"). A failure in any cable or device breaks the loop and can take down the entire network.

To implement a ring network, one typically uses FDDI, SONET, or Token Ring technology. Ring topologies are found in some office buildings or school campuses.

This diagram illustrates the ring network topology. A ring topology such as FDDI or SONET sends messages clockwise or counterclockwise through the shared link.

Star Topology

Many home networks use the star topology. A star network features a central connection point called a "hub" that may be a hub, switch or router. Devices typically connect to the hub with Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Ethernet.

Compared to the bus topology, a star network generally requires more cable, but a failure in any star network cable will only take down one computer's network access and not the entire LAN. (If the hub fails, however, the entire network also fails.)

This diagram illustrates the star network topology. A star topology typically uses a network hub or switch and is common in home networks.

Tree Topology

Tree topologies integrate multiple star topologies together onto a bus. In its simplest form, only hub devices connect directly to the tree bus, and each hub functions as the "root" of a tree of devices. This bus/star hybrid approach supports future expandability of the network much better than a bus (limited in the number of devices due to the broadcast traffic it generates) or a star (limited by the number of hub connection points) alone.

This diagram illustrates the tree network topology. A tree topology integrates the star and bus topologies in a hybrid approach to improve network scalability.

Mesh Topology

Mesh topologies involve the concept of routes. Unlike each of the previous topologies, messages sent on a mesh network can take any of several possible paths from source to destination. (Recall that even in a ring, although two cable paths exist, messages can only travel in one direction.) Some WANs, most notably the Internet, employ mesh routing.

A mesh network in which every device connects to every other is called a full mesh. As shown in the illustration below, partial mesh networks also exist in which some devices connect only indirectly to others.

This diagram illustrates the mesh network topology. A mesh topology provides redundant communication paths between some or all devices (partial or full mesh).

Summary

Topologies remain an important part of network design theory. You can probably build a home or small business computer network without understanding the difference between a bus design and a star design, but becoming familiar with the standard topologies gives you a better understanding of important networking concepts like hubs, broadcasts, and routes.

Introduction to Network Types

Introduction to Network Types

One way to categorize the different types of computer network designs is by their scope or scale. For historical reasons, the networking industry refers to nearly every type of design as some kind of area network. Common examples of area network types are:

• LAN - Local Area Network
• WLAN - Wireless Local Area Network
• WAN - Wide Area Network
• MAN - Metropolitan Area Network
• SAN - Storage Area Network, System Area Network, Server Area Network, or sometimes Small Area Network
• CAN - Campus Area Network, Controller Area Network, or sometimes Cluster Area Network
• PAN - Personal Area Network
• DAN - Desk Area Network

LAN and WAN were the original categories of area networks, while the others have gradually emerged over many years of technology evolution.

Note that these network types are a separate concept from network topologies such as bus, ring and star.

LAN - Local Area Network

A LAN connects network devices over a relatively short distance. A networked office building, school, or home usually contains a single LAN, though sometimes one building will contain a few small LANs (perhaps one per room), and occasionally a LAN will span a group of nearby buildings. In TCP/IP networking, a LAN is often but not always implemented as a single IP subnet.

In addition to operating in a limited space, LANs are also typically owned, controlled, and managed by a single person or organization. They also tend to use certain connectivity technologies, primarily Ethernet and Token Ring.

WAN - Wide Area Network

As the term implies, a WAN spans a large physical distance. The Internet is the largest WAN, spanning the Earth.

A WAN is a geographically-dispersed collection of LANs. A network device called a router connects LANs to a WAN. In IP networking, the router maintains both a LAN address and a WAN address.

A WAN differs from a LAN in several important ways. Most WANs (like the Internet) are not owned by any one organization but rather exist under collective or distributed ownership and management. WANs tend to use technology like ATM, Frame Relay and X.25 for connectivity over the longer distances.

LAN, WAN and Home Networking

Residences typically employ one LAN and connect to the Internet WAN via an Internet Service Provider (ISP) using a broadband modem. The ISP provides a WAN IP address to the modem, and all of the computers on the home network use LAN (so-called private) IP addresses. All computers on the home LAN can communicate directly with each other but must go through a central gateway, typically a broadband router, to reach the ISP.

Other Types of Area Networks

While LAN and WAN are by far the most popular network types mentioned, you may also commonly see references to these others:

• Wireless Local Area Network - a LAN based on WiFi wireless network technology
• Metropolitan Area Network - a network spanning a physical area larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, such as a city. A MAN is typically owned an operated by a single entity such as a government body or large corporation.
• Campus Area Network - a network spanning multiple LANs but smaller than a MAN, such as on a university or local business campus.
• Storage Area Network - connects servers to data storage devices through a technology like Fibre Channel.
• System Area Network - links high-performance computers with high-speed connections in a cluster configuration. Also known as Cluster Area Network.

What is (Wireless / Computer) Networking?

In the world of computers, networking is the practice of linking two or more computing devices together for the purpose of sharing data. Networks are built with a mix of computer hardware and computer software.

Area Networks

Networks can be categorized in several different ways. One approach defines the type of network according to the geographic area it spans. Local area networks (LANs), for example, typically reach across a single home, whereas wide area networks (WANs), reach across cities, states, or even across the world. The Internet is the world's largest public WAN.

Network Design

Computer networks also differ in their design. The two types of high-level network design are called client-server and peer-to-peer. Client-server networks feature centralized server computers that store email, Web pages, files and or applications. On a peer-to-peer network, conversely, all computers tend to support the same functions. Client-server networks are much more common in business and peer-to-peer networks much more common in homes.

A network topology represents its layout or structure from the point of view of data flow. In so-called bus networks, for example, all of the computers share and communicate across one common conduit, whereas in a star network, all data flows through one centralized device. Common types of network topologies include bus, star, ring and mesh.

Network Protocols

In networking, the communication language used by computer devices is called the protocol. Yet another way to classify computer networks is by the set of protocols they support. Networks often implement multiple protocols to support specific applications. Popular protocols include TCP/IP, the most common protocol found on the Internet and in home networks.

Wired vs Wireless Networking

Many of the same network protocols, like TCP/IP, work in both wired and wireless networks. Networks with Ethernet cables predominated in businesses, schools, and homes for several decades. Recently, however, wireless networking alternatives have emerged as the premier technology for building new computer networks.