BUS-S 305 Technology Infrastructure
The foundation for digital business is the firm’s computer network infrastructure. This course examines how computer networks move messages from one computer to another, and how firms design and deploy network infrastructure. The course begins with the hardware and software components of network infrastructure, such as Wi-Fi and routers, and Ethernet and TCP/IP. Next, it discusses how to design a firm’s network using a variety of LAN, backbone, WAN and Internet technologies and components. Finally, it examines the major decisions needed in managing network infrastructure (e.g., network security) and which options are likely to lead to better performance. Topics include the five network layers, network technologies such as LAN and backbone network components (switches, access points, and routers), WAN technologies (packet-switched networks, dedicated circuits, and VPN), network design (needs analysis, technology design and cost assessment), and network security and management (firewalls, passwords, and managed devices).