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This course introduces students to wide area network technology and the field of telecommunications by examining a variety of technologies. Students will also learn how all of these technologies work together to form networks and functioning systems. This class also emphasizes how these technologies may be used in order to meet the many requirements of business.

Wide Area Networks (WANs) provide communication paths for data, voice and video as it flows between callers, businesses and countries. The basic characteristics of WANs and the current trends of communications systems are presented to students who will also discuss the four basic elements of voice and data communication systems. These elements also include how voltage creates digital signals, types and hierarchy of switches and the differences in various carrier services. Students will also learn about standards organizations and how they drive and regulate the communications industry.

This course presents information on network design and data communications. Students are introduced to types of networks and will also learn about different types of cabling, interfaces and internet-working devices used to construct WANs. Other topics covered include the operation of protocols, packets and frames used in data communications.

Course Objectives

• By the end of this course, students will be able to explain the different methods of transmitting data on Wide Area Networks (WANs) and differentiate various WAN security mechanisms.
• They will outline the current protocols used on public and private WANs, analyze the impact of regulatory control on interstate and international data transmissions and choose WAN technologies for specific case study situations. Participants will also evaluate how the explosive growth of wireless technologies integrates with current WAN technologies.
• Not only will students have a better understanding of the characteristics of WANs and the current and emerging technologies to support it, they will also be introduced to the various media and methods used in communication systems and will be given an overview of each of these technologies. Students will look at the telephone network and the components that make it work, including switches. The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the basis for all WAN connections and the class will see how voice and data are moved through this network.