Connecting Networks Companion Guide is the official supplemental textbook for the Connecting Networks course in the Cisco(R) Networking Academy(R) CCNA(R) Routing and Switching curriculum. This course discusses the WAN technologies and network services required by converged applications in a complex network. The course allows you to understand the selection criteria of network devices and WAN technologies to meet network requirements. You will learn how to configure and troubleshoot network devices and resolve common issues with data link protocols. You will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to implement IPSec and virtual private network (VPN) operations in a complex network. The Companion Guide is designed as a portable desk reference to use anytime, anywhere to reinforce the material from the course and organize your time. The book's features help you focus on important concepts to succeed in this course: Chapter objectivesReview core concepts by answering the focus questions listed at the beginning of each chapter. Key termsRefer to the lists of networking vocabulary introduced and highlighted in context in each chapter. GlossaryConsult the comprehensive Glossary with 195 terms. Summary of Activities and LabsMaximize your study time with this complete list of all associated practice exercises at the end of each chapter. Check Your UnderstandingEvaluate your readiness with the end-of-chapter questions that match the style of questions you see in the online course quizzes. The answer key explains each answer. How ToLook for this icon to study the steps you need to learn to perform certain tasks. Interactive ActivitiesReinforce your understanding of topics with all the different exercises from the online course identified throughout the book with this icon. VideosWatch the videos embedded within the online course. Packet Tracer ActivitiesExplore and visualize networking concepts using Packet Tracer exercises interspersed throughout the chapters. Hands-on LabsWork through all the course labs and Class Activities that are included in the course and published in the separate Lab Manual.
