Delivery: Online |
College Credit: 3 Credit Hours |
Est. Length: 22 Seat Hours
Price: $560.00
Course Overview
The NCTI Introduction to Wireless Networking course bridges the gap between wired reliability and wireless expectation. In today’s market, Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury—it is a utility.
This comprehensive curriculum combines Radio Frequency (RF) physics with Local Area Networking (LAN) logic to explain how wireless networks function. Technicians will move beyond simple “router setup” to understand the science of Spread Spectrum Technology, Antenna Polarization, and 802.11 Architecture. The course covers the full lifecycle of a wireless network: from conducting a professional RF Site Survey to configuring secure Access Points and troubleshooting invisible interference.
Who Should Attend:
- Broadband Technicians
- Network Installers
- IT Support Specialists
- Students who have completed Introduction to Networking
What You Will Learn
Upon completion, students will be able to design, install, and secure robust wireless networks for both residential and enterprise environments.
Core Competencies:
- RF Fundamentals: Define basic RF concepts including Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR), principles of antennas, and RF mathematics.
- Technology Standards: Trace the evolution of Wi-Fi Standards (from legacy to 802.11ac) and explain the roles of governing bodies like the FCC and IEEE.
- Infrastructure: Configure essential hardware including Access Points, Wireless Bridges, Residential Gateways, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices.
- Troubleshooting: Diagnose complex transmission problems such as Multipath Distortion, the “Hidden Node” problem, Near/Far issues, and interference.
- Security: Secure the airwaves using WPA/WPA2 encryption, identify types of hacker attacks, and implement corporate security policies.
- Site Surveys: Conduct professional RF site surveys to determine optimal AP placement and coverage areas.
Certification and Benefits
Master the Invisible Network
This course complements your wired networking knowledge with the wireless skills required for modern deployments.
Additional Benefits:
- Industry Recognition: Receive the NCTI Certificate of Graduation.
- Academic Value: Earn 3 hours of college credit upon successful completion.
- Prerequisites: Recommended for those who have completed Installer or Introduction to Networking.
Course Outline
Module 1: RF and Spread Spectrum
- RF Fundamentals and VSWR.
- Spread Spectrum: FHSS vs. DSSS technologies.
Module 2: Infrastructure and Antennas
- Access Points, Bridges, and Gateways.
- Antennas: RF antenna types and PoE devices.
Module 3: Standards and Architecture
- Organizations (FCC, IEEE) and 802.11 Architecture.
- Authentication, Association, and Service Sets.
Module 4: Troubleshooting and Security
- Diagnostics: Multipath, Hidden Node, and Interference.
- Security: WEP, WPA/WPA2, and emerging threats.
Module 5: Site Survey Fundamentals
- Preparing, conducting, and reporting on RF Site Surveys.