This document provides an overview of networking terminology and troubleshooting techniques. It defines common networking terms like DNS, DHCP, and IP configurations. It also explains the bottom three layers of the OSI model: layer 1 deals with physical connections, layer 2 with data linking within a local network using MAC addresses, and layer 3 handles routing packets between local networks using IP addresses. Finally, it provides a troubleshooting checklist to methodically diagnose network issues starting with basic connectivity tests and escalating to external routing.
2. Terminology/Toolkit
Infrastructure
DNS
DHCP
Gatekeeper
Statically configured devices
Command line
getmac /v
ipconfig on Windows, ifconfig on OSX/Linux
tracert eg tracert yahoo.com
nslookup
Ping
Arp -a
3. More terminology
IPv4 addresses
Valid IP/Lease
Internal -10.10.x.x used for FIT phones, 172.16.x.x used for FIT network infrastructure
These cannot be externally routed over the internet
External or Public 163.118.x.x
Invalid 169.254.x.x, or 192.168.x.x in a dorm, unless behind a student router
The subnet mask
Defines the specific network
If entered wrongly, on a statically configured device, it will not communicate!
The gateway
This is actually the router
Set by/implied by the subnet mask
If entered wrongly, on a statically configured device, it will not communicate!
4. Some technical background..
Know the bottom three layers of the OSI model
7 - Application
6 - Presentation
5 - Session
4 - Transport
3 - Network
do you have a valid IP
can you ping externally?
can you tracert to an external host
2 - Datalink can you ping the gateway?
Arp-a
1 - Physical does it have a link?
5. Layer 1 - Physical
Signal consists of high and low voltage, which is transformed into a bitstream
Equipment
Cables, Jacks, Connectors, NICs
Can be intercepted - reason why encryption is needed!
6. Layer 2 Data-Link
Converts bits to frames
Connects hosts in the LOCAL network
No frames leave the local network
Bridges between layers 1 and 3
No IPs, only MACs used between hosts
ARP table
MAC addresses globally unique *
Broadcasts/Collisions
Equipment
Switches
7. Layer 3 Network
Converts Frame into a Packet by encapsulation
Responsible for routing from source to destination
Used to connect LOCAL networks together
9. Troubleshooting Order network
checklist
Start by checking device registration
Do you have a link?
Can you ping the loopback 127.0.0.1 address?
Can you ping the default gateway
Do you have a valid IP?
Can you tracert to an external IP address eg 8.8.8.8 (google) or yahoo.com?