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Computer Network Administration

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CNA 101 Introduction to Computer Hardware (4)

This course focuses on computer hardware, in particular, the components of a personal computer. The specific component areas covered include: processors, motherboards, memory, storage, peripherals, portable hardware, and tools and test equipment.  General areas/activities include: concepts, specifications, upgrading, and troubleshooting. The course has a highly hands-on orientation. A major activity is the selection of computer components by the class leading to the building of a personal computer by each student (which they then own). (Fall Semester)


CNA 105 Introduction to Networking (3)

This course provides the introduction to the field of computer networking.  Topics include:  standards, protocols, media, hardware devices, network operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. Hands-on activities include:  creating network cabling configurations, building network configuration, and working with network hardware components such as: hubs, switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless equipment.

(Fall Semester)


CNA 112  Operating Systems (3)

This course covers both theoretical concepts and their practical application in all computers.  A number of major operating systems are covered.  General topics include:  concepts, system management, security, installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.  The course is hands-on and students will work with computers running the different operating systems.  Students will install and configure an operating system on the personal computer that they built in a previous class.  (Spring Semester)

Prerequisite:  CNA 101


CNA 115  Network Infrastructure (4)

This course covers the key network services that are supported by the Network Administrator and required to allow a client-server network to function.  Specific topics include:  network addressing, name resolution, routing, remote access, and security.  General areas/activities include:  concepts, installation, configuration, management, maintenance, and troubleshooting.  The course is hands-on with operating computer networks used to practice the concepts presented.  (Spring Semester) Prerequisite:  CNA 105


CNA 208 Linux/UNIX (3)

This course covers the major alternatives to Microsoft's current client and server operating systems - Linux and UNIX.  This important family of operating systems plays a key role in the Internet.  Coverage includes both Linux and UNIX as a workstation operating system and as a network operating system.  The open source software business model is covered.  The course is hands-on and personal computers and operating computer networks are used to practice the concepts presented.  (Fall Semester) Prerequisite:  CNA  112


CNA 210 Network Administration (4)

This course, along with CNA 260, are the capstone courses of the program.  Typical Network Administrator's responsibilities are covered including:  installation, configuration, security, resource allocation, storage management, backup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.  The course is hands-on and operating computer networks are used to practice the concepts presented.  Server hardware is covered and the class will select server components and then students will build individual servers (which they then own).  (Fall Semester) Prerequisite:  CNA 115


CNA 260 Advanced Network Administration (4)

This course, along with CNA 210, are the capstone courses of the program.  This course continues the coverage of CNA 210 Network Administration.  The course is hands-on and operating computer networks are used to practice the concepts presented.  (Spring Semester) Prerequisite:  CNA 210


CNA 264  Computer Security (3)

Computer security is a critical issue in the computer and network field.  This course covers the full range of threats and the responses for both networks and individual devices on the networks.  Hardware, software, and procedural security solutions are covered.  The course is hands-on and operating computer networks are used to practice the concepts presented.  (Spring Semester) Prerequisite:  CNA 105


CNA 200 Special Topics (3)

This course will explore current issues in computer networking.  Students may repeat this course for different issues.  Prerequisite:  CNA 105


CNA 220 Visual Basic (3)

This course is an introduction to computer programming using Visual Basic.  The general programming topics of data types, input/output, calculation, flow of control, and program structure are covered.  Event-driven and object-oriented programming along with user interface controls are covered in the context of Visual Basic.


CNA 250 Network Planning and Design (3)

This course involves applying network concepts in planning and designing functional networks.  Emphasis is placed on recognizing the need for a network, conducting an analysis, and designing solutions.  Prerequisite:  CNA 105


CNA 255  Computer Architecture (3)

This course focuses on the design of computer processors.  Topics include:  digital electronics, integrated circuit manufacture, design of processors, introduction to machine language, and multiprocessor configurations.  This is a hands-on course where students build operating digital circuitry using electronic components on prototyping equipment and practice machine language programming on personal computers.  Prerequisite:  CNA 101


CNA 266 Project Management (3)

This course covers general project management concepts, tools and techniques.  A popular project management software package is used to practice the techniques.


CNA 274 Seminar & Internship (4)

A supervised on-the-job work experience in a computer networking setting provides the student with the opportunity to apply skills. One-hour weekly seminars will be used to review the work experience and perform career readiness activities. Students will receive one hour of credit for the seminar and three hours of credit for the 120 hours of internship. (Spring Semester)


CNA 299 Independent Study (3)

Study of a more advanced nature based on previous computer network coursework, developed and applied by individual students on a tutorial basis.  Plans must be approved by the dean of the program.