Networking your business

A tutorial in networking and Internet technologies

14 July 2006

Sherwell Conference Centre
University of Plymouth
Plymouth

Background

Network technologies now have a valuable role to play in the operation of many modern organisations, with advantages including:

• simplified access to information
• unified communication
• managed access to resources
• easier decision-making

Alongside the developments with local area networks, the wider Internet has grown to become the largest network on Earth, providing not only a wealth of information and interaction opportunities, but also the facility for even the smallest organisation to establish a global presence.

In this dynamic environment, any business must take full advantage of the benefits provided by networked systems, and gain from the wealth of information and communication opportunities available through the Internet.

The sessions within this tutorial aim to provide an introduction to the domain, as well as coverage of operational considerations and future trends.

Registration and enquires

The registration fee is £60 and includes:

• attendance to the presentations
• CD copy of all slide materials
• coffee and lunch break

Online registration is closed.

Schedule

8.45-9.00 Registration

9.00-9.10 Welcome

9.10-10.10 Understanding network infrastructure

• Networking terminology – performance, data, devices
• Connecting computers – hardware / software,
• Connecting to the Internet – speeds, Internet Service Providers, broadband and dial-up

10.10-10.30 Coffee break

10.30-11.15 Advantages of networking

• Local services: backup, storage, file servers
• Internet services: visibility, access to information, communication
• Remote access
• Telephone network integration: Voice over IP

11.15-11.40 How to build a network

• Design – physical connectivity, performance, Internet connectivity
• Purchase: specification, stores, comparison websites, reviews
• Setup – IP addressing and services
• Troubleshooting - configuration and connectivity

11.40-12.00 The wireless alternative

• Infrastructure of wireless networks
• Connectivity and configuration
• Security

12.00-13.00 Lunch (Sherwell Centre)

13.00-14.00 Secure networking

• The need for security
• Hardware & software, market, pricing
• Antivirus and firewall software/hardware
• Case studies/examples

14.00-14.40 Understanding the Internet

• Internet structure – hosts, networks
• Understanding the “health” of the network
• Troubleshooting tools

14.40-15.00 Internet trends

• Mobile internet
• “Triple play” services
• WiMax

15.00-15.30 Q&A and discussion

Theme

The tutorial will address several of the main issues and decisions that organisations may face when adopting network technologies and getting connected to the Internet.

• the role of each connectivity component within a network.
• the need for networking and the advantages provided by a network - from local and Internet services to remote access and telephone system integration.
• the practical steps involved when setting up a network, from design to purchase.
• the need to secure and protect the infrastructure and the information within it.
• the current infrastructure of the Internet and available troubleshooting tools and resources.

Target audience

This event is targeted at all companies which have an interest in networking or would like to find details about the implementation and benefits of networking.

This activity may be appropriate for the maintenance or enhancement of an individual’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is the individual’s responsibility to confirm the applicability to their CPD needs.

Presenters

The sessions will be delivered by Dr. Paul Dowland, Dr. Bogdan Ghita, and Dr. Xingang Wang – all of whom are lecturers in computer networking and security, and members of the Network Research Group at the University of Plymouth.

Venue

The event will take place at the Sherwell Conference Centre, University of Plymouth. The University is situated in the centre of Plymouth, and the conference centre offers spacious, custom-built lecture halls with extensive AV facilities.

Registration and enquires

The registration fee is £60 and includes:

• attendance to the presentations
• CD copy of all slide materials
• coffee and lunch break

Online registration is closed.