640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials Curriculum Outline
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Fundamentals
Overview/DescriptionWireless network deployment has exploded in recent years. The use of wireless devices went quickly from early adoption in sites where cabling was difficult or impossible, to widespread use in home networks. The change was rapid due to the ease of use of wireless routers and other equipment. With improvements in security and performance, wireless networks have moved into many mainstream business LANs. With new and better standards and equipment in development all the time, growth is virtually unlimited. This course introduces wireless networks, examining where they are used and what kinds of wireless networks can be built. The evolution of wireless technology, wireless topology categories, and wireless networks types, such as ad hoc and infrastructure are discussed, along with some basic wireless devices. This course also explores WLAN radio frequency (RF) principles and RF mathematics, to provide an explanation of how the radio waves used in wireless networks function.
This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing wireless topologies (IBSS, BSS, ESS, Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multipoint, basic Mesh, bridging); describing networking technologies used in wireless (SSID, WLAN_ID, Interface, VLAN, 802.1q trunking); and describing WLAN RF principles (refraction, reflection, etc.).
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration
1.5 hours
Lesson Objectives Wireless Types and Topologies distinguish between WPAN, WLAN, WMAN, and WWAN network types recognize the characteristics of ad hoc networks Wireless Network Basics recognize the characteristics of access point (APs), service set identifier (SSIDs), and workgroup bridge (WGB) topologies recognize the characteristics of repeaters, outdoor wireless bridges, and outdoor mesh network topologies WLAN RF Principles recognize how frequency, wavelength, and amplitude define the radio frequency spectrum Performance Influences recognize how the principles of free path loss, absorption, and reflection affect the transmission of wireless signals recognize the role of reflection and refraction in wireless signal loss Factors that Impact Signal Quality recognize how the Fresnel zone and measures of signal strength can be used to estimate signal quality Understanding RF Mathematics recognize the meaning and scale of common radio frequency units recognize how the signal power of antennae can be compared using references Using Radio Frequency Principles and Mathematics
Course ID: cc_iuwn_a01_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Overview/Description
Troubleshooting wireless networks presents a unique set of challenges. Unlike wired LAN users, wireless clients are mobile and their relative position within a building is often the most likely culprit in connectivity issues. However, positioning isnt the only factor that can keep clients from connecting to access points. In an ever-changing RF environment, the connection quality from a fixed location may change over time. Proper maintenance of the wireless infrastructure can help prevent many issues, and good troubleshooting practices can make the detection process much more efficient when problems do arise. This course explains the procedure and reasoning behind controller backup and code upgrade. Design and site survey considerations are also covered, along with descriptions of many of the common and useful troubleshooting tools and techniques. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE) exam objectives for identifying basic WLAN troubleshooting methods for controllers, access points, and client methodologies; and understanding RF deployment and troubleshooting issues. As well, the course covers the objectives for using the WLC and WCS troubleshooting tools.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers, or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Maintenance and Troubleshooting
cc_iuwn_a12_it_enus
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Mentoring 640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE)
Overview/Description
SkillSoft Mentors are available to help students with their studies for exam 640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE). You can reach them by entering a Mentored Chat Room or by using the E-mail My Mentor service.
Target Audience
Individuals who are studying the associated SkillSoft content in preparation for, or to become familiar with, the skills and competencies being measured by the actual certification exam.
Prerequisites
Familiarity with the exam objectives listed below and skills and competencies being measured in the associated certification exam.
Expected Duration (hours)
0.0
Lesson Objectives
Mentoring 640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE)
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TestPrep 640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE)
Overview/Description
To test your knowledge on the skills and competencies being measured by the vendor certification exam. TestPrep can be taken in either Study or Certification mode. Study mode is designed to maximize learning by not only testing your knowledge of the material, but also by providing additional information on the topics presented. Certification mode is designed to test your knowledge of the material within a structured testing environment, providing valuable feedback at the end of the test.
Target Audience
Individuals seeking practice in a structured testing environment, covering the skills and competencies being measured by the vendor certification exam.
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
TestPrep 640-721 Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE)
Course Number:cc_iuwn_a01_tp_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Antennae and Spread Spectrum Technologies
Overview/Description
The technology behind sending wireless signals includes antennae, which are needed to transmit RF signals, and spread spectrum technologies, which include the protocols involved in sending wireless frames. This course describes the different types of antennae used in wireless implementations. It outlines the principles behind antenna technology, and discusses how to chose the right antenna based on where and how you want the signal to be received. This course also explains spread spectrum technologies, including Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM), as well as the various modulation types used with each. In addition, the issues linked to channel overlaps and channel reuse are explored. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the basics of spread spectrum technology including modulation, DSSS, OFDM, channels reuse and overlap, and describing WLAN RF principles including antenna types and RF gain and loss.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers, or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credentials.
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Antennae and Spread Spectrum Technologies
cc_iuwn_a02_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Regulation Bodies, Standards, and Certifications
Overview/Description
In order to send information wirelessly, devices must make use of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum. Rules regarding what transmit power is allowed in specific frequencies differ between regions. In order to allow for interoperability between regions, a common set of rules, or protocols, for sending information is needed for vendors to follow when designing their wireless devices. This course describes wireless regulation bodies, such as the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, as well as code regulatory bodies such as the FCC and ETSI. The 802.11 family of protocols, which govern wireless operation, is also covered. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing wireless regulatory bodies, standards and certifications such as FCC, ETSI, 802.11a/b/g/n, and Wi-Fi Alliance.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credentials.
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Regulation Bodies, Standards, and Certifications
cc_iuwn_a03_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Frame Basics and Nonstandard Technologies
Overview/Description
While the 802.11x standard is most prevalent in todays wireless environments, it is also important to have a working knowledge of non-802.11 wireless technologies and their impact on WLANs. Understanding the principles behind wireless frame exchange, whether 802.11x or nonstandard frames, is key to installing and troubleshooting wireless networks efficiently, and knowing the tools used to support these activities is just as important. This course provides the basics needed to understand which frames can be expected, what their role is, and what their speed will be in order to quickly detect when a portion of a dialog is failing. This course follows the end-to-end journey of the wireless frame, and also describes the impact of nonstandard wireless technologies on Wi-Fi networks. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the spread spectrum technology CSMA/CA; describing the impact of various wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, WiMAX, ZigBee, and cordless telephones on WLANs; describing networking technologies used in wireless, such as trunking interfaces and 802.1q trunking; and describing the management, control, and data frame types.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
2.0
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Frame Basics and Nonstandard Technologies
cc_iuwn_a04_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Unified Wireless Network Basic Architecture
Overview/Description
Depending on the size of a wireless network, the number of deployed access points (APs) can run from a single AP to thousands on a single campus. As WLANs get bigger and the number of devices grows, management can go from cumbersome to nearly impossible. Ciscos Unified Wireless Network architecture provides a means to centralize configuration of APs. Service Set Identifier (SSID) configuration, power level, and channels can be automatically configured by a central control point. This course explains the basics of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network architecture, its operation, benefits, and components. In addition, it provides an overview of the primary Cisco APs and WLAN Controllers used in deployment. This course also describes Ciscos wireless LAN controller, its hardware and configuration. The course also covers how lightweight access points (APs) associate and communicate with wireless LAN (WLAN) controllers to obtain software, configurations, and to access centralized management. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the basics of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network architecture, including Split MAC, LWAPP, stand-alone AP versus controller-based AP, and specific hardware examples and describing controller-based AP discovery and association using OTAP, DHCP, DNS, Master-Controller, Primary-Secondary-Tertiary, and n+1 redundancy.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
2.0
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Unified Wireless Network Basic Architecture
cc_iuwn_a05_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Access Point Management
Overview/Description
The primary function of an access point is to provide entry onto a network to wireless clients. However, access points can also be expected to monitor channels to detect rogues or interference, locate devices, or help troubleshoot network issues. As well, access points need to be able to dynamically service legitimate clients as they move from the range of one access point into the range of another. The ability to centrally manage the access points within a network can greatly reduce the load on administrative duties. This course describes the operational modes of access points and explains the concepts behind roaming users. The course also covers some of the common configuration parameters run on a controller as they relate to access points. This course also introduces the Cisco Mobility Express Architecture and explains some of the specific differences between it and the enterprise version of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network solution. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the Cisco Mobility Express Wireless architecture (Smart Business Communication System – SBCS, Cisco Config Agent – CCA, 526WLC, 521AP – stand-alone and controller-based); describing the modes of controller-based AP deployment (local, monitor, HREAP, sniffer, rogue detector, bridge); describing roaming (Layer 2 and Layer 3, intra-controller and inter-controller, mobility groups); configuring the basics of a stand-alone access point (no lab) (Express setup, basic security); and describing RRM.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
2.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Access Point Management
cc_iuwn_a06_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Clients
Overview/Description
A number of configuration tools exist to aid in the setup and administration of wireless clients on common operating systems, for example NetworkManager under Linux, the Mac AirPort configuration utility, and Windows Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC). Cisco also provides their own client configuration tools that can be installed on an administrators computer. This course describes the default configuration tools found on common operating systems that allow a user to detect wireless LANs and create basic profiles. It also explains the Cisco software used for client configuration, including Aironet Desktop Utility (ADU), the Aironet Site Survey Utility (ASTU), and the Cisco Aironet Client Administration Utility, as well as the Cisco Secure Services Client that provides IEEE 802.1X user and device authentication. In addition, the course introduces the Cisco Compatible Extensions (CCX) Program, which is a widely supported Cisco program that allows wireless clients to benefit from Cisco innovations. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing client OS WLAN configuration (Windows, Apple, and Linux.) and basic CSSC; installing Cisco ADU; and describing the Cisco Compatible Extension program.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
2.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Wireless Clients
cc_iuwn_a07_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Security Basics
Overview/Description
Early security for wireless communication was weak, as the IEEE 802.11 standard was designed for ease of deployment in residential homes instead of in enterprise environments. With the widespread adoption of wireless networks by businesses, better protection of data and the ability to authenticate users was required. Thanks to improvements in security protocols, todays wireless networks are as secure, if not more secure, than wired networks. This course provides an overview of WLAN security and shows the steps required to ensure privacy in wireless networks as well as some of the advanced features that Cisco networks have to increase wireless network security. This course also explains the configuration of basic WLAN security and describes centralized WLAN authentication. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing 802.11 authentication and encryption methods including Open, Shared, 802.1X, EAP, TKIP, AES, LEAP, PEAP, AES, WPA/WPA2, TKIP, PSK, EAP-local or -external, and RADIUS.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers, or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Security Basics
cc_iuwn_a08_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Authentication and Encryption
Overview/Description
Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) authentication and encryption mechanisms are vast improvements over early implementations of wireless security. Given the variety of ways EAP and WPA can be used in a wireless environment, it is important to understand their strengths and weaknesses, in order to decide which will work best in a given network situation. This course describes the different flavors of EAP as well as the two generations of Wi-Fi Protected Access – WPA and WPA2. The course also provides the information necessary to be able to configure wireless security on Cisco controllers and clients. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing and configuring authentication methods (Guest, PSK, 802.1X, WPA/WPA2 with EAP-TLS, EAP-FAST, PEAP, LEAP); describing and configuring encryption methods (WPA/WPA2 with TKIP, AES); and describing and configuring the various sources of authentication (PSK, EAP-local or -external, Radius).
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
2.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: WLAN Authentication and Encryption
cc_iuwn_a09_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Introducing, Installing, and Administering WCS
Overview/Description
The Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS) is an optional network component that works in conjunction with lightweight access points (APs), controllers, and the Cisco Wireless Location Appliance. With Cisco WCS, network administrators have a single interface for managing the wireless network. This course introduces the Cisco WCS and the Cisco WCS Navigator and explains the installation and administration of WCS. It also covers the hardware requirements for WCS and describes related licensing procedures. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the key features of WCS and Navigator (versions and licensing); and installing/upgrading WCS and configuring basic administration parameters (ports, O/S version, strong passwords, service vs. application).
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Introducing, Installing, and Administering WCS
cc_iuwn_a10_it_enus
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Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Cisco WCS Administration
Overview/Description
The Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS) is a tool that helps to centralize, and therefore simplify, the administration of wireless networks. The WCS can manage multiple access points and controllers as well as offer enhanced monitoring and security. WCS also includes tools for wireless LAN (WLAN) planning and design, RF management, location tracking, Cisco Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), and WLAN systems configuration, monitoring, and management. This course describes the process of adding controllers to the Cisco WCS and managing and configuring network devices with WCS. The course also explains how to understand and use maps to provide a graphical representation of the wireless network either for planning or documentation purposes. Also covered are techniques for using WCS for monitoring various network components, and personalizing the Cisco WCS home page. This course maps to the 640-721, Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials (IUWNE), exam objectives for describing the configuration of controllers and APs (using the Configuration tab, not templates); the configuration and use of maps in the WCS (add campus, building, floor, maps, position AP); and using the WCS Monitor tab and alarm summary to verify the WLAN operations.
Target Audience
Network associates, WLAN designers, planners, implementers, optimizers, trainers, or support personnel; candidates for the Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials v1.0 640-721 examination, seeking to attain Cisco’s CCNA-WIRELESS credential
Prerequisites
Certification in Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1/CCENT); knowledge and skills commensurate with Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2); a working knowledge of the Windows operating system and Cisco IOS networking and concepts
Expected Duration (hours)
1.5
Lesson Objectives
Cisco IUWNE 1.0: Cisco WCS Administration
cc_iuwn_a11_it_enus
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