Welcome fellow WGU students! We are thrilled to have you here as you embark on your journey to conquer the module Network and Security – Foundations WGU D315 . It can be quite challenging to dive into a whole new module without knowing the proper ins and outs of the course content. We understand how you might feel in this circumstance and how hard it can be to choose your study path. In this article, we will take you through all the information you need to properly navigate this new module and its course content. From understanding the core topics to tips on effective study habits, we’ve got you covered. So stick with us, and let’s begin this exciting journey together.
Going forward, we will discuss on;
- About the module D315
- Study guide to prepare for the OA
- External resources to help you study
- Key topics to focus on
- FAQ
Without further ado, let us begin..
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About the WGU D315📖
Welcome to Network and Security – Foundations (WGU D315). This module introduces learners to the essential concepts of network systems and networking technologies. As you embark on this course, you will gain a solid understanding of how computer networks operate and the roles of various communication protocols. This foundational knowledge is critical for anyone aspiring to work in the field of information technology, as it forms the backbone of more advanced studies in networking and cybersecurity.
In addition to the basics of network systems, the course places a strong emphasis on network security. You will explore various security vulnerabilities and threats that can compromise network integrity. The module will guide you through best practices for risk mitigation and the policies and procedures necessary for effective security management. This knowledge is invaluable in today’s digital age, where protecting business continuity, data access, and confidentiality is paramount.
By completing this module, you will acquire the below competencies.
Competency 4014.2.1: Identifies Basic Network Systems and Concepts
Competency 4014.2.2: Applies Network Security Concepts
Competency 4014.2.3: Identifies Network Security Solutions
Your competency in this module will be demonstrated by successfully completing an objective assessment. This means you will need to understand and apply the concepts taught throughout the course. By the end of the module, you will be well-equipped with the skills required to identify and implement network security solutions, ensuring compliance with security standards and contributing to the safeguarding of digital infrastructures. Good luck, and may your journey through this module be both enlightening and rewarding.
Study Guide to Prepare for the WGU D315 OA📝
In this section of the article, we will unveil the ultimate study guide to ace the OA of module Network and Security – Foundations WGU D315. We will take you through the step-by-step process the step by step of learning the course content, practicing your skills to facing your final challenge in the most optimum path possible. Once you begin your studies on the module, make sure to pace yourself through the study guide as you prefer. There is no need to rush through the steps and finish the module as soon as possible. The main focus should be to learn the knowledge shared through the course content and gain new skills.
Step 1 – Download the note-taking guide
Throughout our studies in this module, we will take detailed notes on each topic and the key concepts shared on those topics. To help us with this objective we will utilize a document shared by WGU to help us take notes and keep us on track on the important information. Navigate to the location mentioned below to download this document.
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the D315 module page > Click on the “Course Chatter” > Open the link “Supplemental Material” > Download the file “Study Guide”
Keep this document with the rest of your material for this course as we will utilize it throughout our studies.
Step 2 – Read through the Textbook
Now let us begin gaining the knowledge of this module by reading through the course material using the WGU-provided Textbook. We have chosen this study resource because it contains all the information you require to face the final OA and it provides the knowledge in a very easy-to-understand manner. As the OA is built upon this Textbook, it is mandatory to complete it at least once before facing the final challenge. In the Textbook, you will find 3 main sections as shown below.
Section 1: Identifies Basic Network Systems and Concepts
Section 2: Applies Network Security Concepts
Section 3: Identifies Network Security Solutions
At the end of each section, you will find knowledge checks and section-end quizzes. Attempt each of these to help you retain the knowledge that you have learned and test your memory. Also, utilize the note-taking guide we downloaded in the first step to take notes on the key concepts by answering the questions provided in each section.
If you require additional resources to clarify any knowledge in the Textbook, refer to the below-mentioned location to find supplemental videos.
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the D315 module page > Click on the “Course Chatter” > Open the link “Networking and Security Supplemental Videos”
Step 3 – Watch the recorded cohorts and lesson videos
Once you complete the Textbook, let us go through the course content once more to help retain the knowledge you have acquired. In this step, we will use the recorded cohorts and lesson videos to accomplish this task. By going through a different study resource, you will get a chance to learn the course content from a different perspective. As these videos are conducted by the course instructors who are well experienced with the module, they will help clarify any doubts you might have acquired in the previous step. Also, these videos will provide you with advice on how to tackle the final assessment and how to study the course content. Follow the instructions given below to find the videos.
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the D315 module page > Click on the “Announcements”
Step 4 – Test your knowledge
In this step, we will test your knowledge of the course content to understand your competency in the module. This will give you a chance to refresh your memory on each section of the module and its key concepts. Attempt the below-listed practice quizzes and complete them by referring to the notes you have taken on the course content.
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the D315 module page > Click on the “Course Chatter” > Open the link “Supplemental Material”
Step 5 – Attempt the D315 PA
The PA is a mock assessment that is made to simulate the OA and measure your knowledge. Even though you were able to get a rough idea of your knowledge by going through the practice quizzes, the Pre-A will assist you estimate your understanding of each topic independently. We advise you to treat the Pre-A as a real assessment and sit for the test as you would sit for the real OA. Do your best to answer each question accurately and pass the Pre-A on your first attempt.
After you have completed the Pre-A, you will receive a coaching guide that accurately depicts your understanding of each topic in the module. This will allow you to find your weak points and give you a chance to work on them before attempting the OA. So revisit the TextBook and the study guide document to fill the gaps in your knowledge and revise your memory.
If you have failed the Pre-A on your first attempt, revisit the Pre-A until you get a passing score of more than 85%. Only once you pass the Pre-A you may proceed to the next step.
Step 6 – Sit for the D315 OA
Now you are ready to face the final examination. You have proved your skills are up to the task by achieving a passing score on the Pre-A. So you can be confident in your ability to ace the OA with ease. Without further delay, schedule the OA at a time of your convenience and do your best.
Exam Structure:
- Number of questions : 120
- Time limit : 60
- Passing score : 70%
- Type of questions : MCQ
- Venue : Online proctored
To take the OA, you should:
- Schedule the OA at a convenient time and date for you
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone.
- Follow the proctoring instructions and rules carefully.
- Use the same strategies and skills that you used for the Pre-A
- Relax and be confident in your abilities.
Good Luck!!
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External Resources to Help You Study For D315 OA 📂
- Additional supplemental videos to clarify key concepts – OSI model , CIA Triad , Access Control
- Go through this YouTube channel to find helpful videos on networking concepts – PowerCertAnimatedVideos
- Notes and study guide of a former course taker – Link
- Quizlets to practice your skills – Quizlet#1 , Quizlet#2
- Section-wise flashcards to study – Link
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Key Topics to Focus on🔑
CIA Triad
The CIA triad is a fundamental concept in information security that stands for Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. Here is an explanation of each component with examples:
Confidentiality
Confidentiality ensures that information is accessible only to those authorized to have access. This is crucial to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and breaches. For example:
- Encrypting sensitive data ensures that only those with the decryption key can read it.
- Using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication adds layers of security to prevent unauthorized access.
- Implementing access control measures, such as user permissions and role-based access controls, restricts who can view or use specific information.
Integrity
Integrity ensures that information is accurate, consistent, and trustworthy. It prevents unauthorized alterations and ensures that data remains unchanged during transit or storage. This is crucial for maintaining the reliability and correctness of information. For example:
- Implementing checksums and hash functions to verify data integrity during transmission and storage ensures that data has not been tampered with or corrupted.
- Using digital signatures and certificates authenticates the origin of the data and verifies that it has not been altered since it was signed.
- Employing access controls and permissions restricts modifications to data, ensuring that only authorized users can make changes, thus maintaining its accuracy and consistency.
- Conducting regular audits and monitoring of data and systems helps detect and respond to any unauthorized changes or anomalies, maintaining the integrity of the information.
Availability
Availability ensures that information and resources are available to authorized users when needed. This is critical for maintaining business operations and user access to necessary information. For example:
- Implementing redundant systems and regular backups ensures that data is always accessible, even in case of system failures.
- Using load balancing techniques distributes network traffic across multiple servers, preventing downtime and ensuring continuous availability.
- Conducting regular maintenance and updates on systems keeps them running smoothly and reduces the risk of unexpected outages.
These components of the CIA triad work together to create a robust framework for securing information, ensuring that it is kept confidential, intact, and accessible to authorized users.
OSI Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework used to understand and implement network protocols in seven layers. Each layer has specific functions and communicates with the layers directly above and below it. Here is a table outlining each layer of the OSI model:
| Layer | Layer Number | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
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Physical
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1
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Deals with the physical connection between devices and the transmission of raw binary data over the medium.
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– Ethernet cables, fiber optics, radio frequencies
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– Network interface cards (NICs) |
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Data Link
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2
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Provides node-to-node data transfer and handles error correction from the physical layer.
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– MAC addresses
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– Switches, bridges |
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Network
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3
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Manages the delivery of packets, including routing through different routers.
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– IP addresses
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– Routers, layer 3 switches |
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Transport
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4
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Provides reliable data transfer with error recovery and flow control.
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– TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), UDP (User Datagram Protocol) |
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Session
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5
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Manages sessions or connections between applications.
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– Session establishment and termination protocols
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– NetBIOS, PPTP |
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Presentation
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6
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Translates data between the application layer and the network format, including encryption and compression.
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– Encryption (SSL/TLS), data format translation (e.g., ASCII to EBCDIC) |
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Application
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7
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Provides network services directly to end-user applications.
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– HTTP, FTP, SMTP, DNS |
This table provides an overview of the OSI model, illustrating the distinct functions of each layer and offering examples to help understand their roles in network communications.
IDS and IPS
Intrusion Detection System (IDS): An IDS is a system that monitors network traffic for suspicious activity and alerts the system or network administrator. IDS can be classified into two types: Network-based IDS (NIDS) and Host-based IDS (HIDS). IDS is a passive system that does not take action when a potential attack is detected but instead logs the information and sends an alert.
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): An IPS is a proactive security system that not only detects potential threats but also takes action to prevent the threat from succeeding. It can block, reject, or drop malicious traffic based on the rules and policies configured. Like IDS, IPS can also be network-based (NIPS) or host-based (HIPS).
IDS vs. IPS
| Feature | IDS | IPS |
|---|---|---|
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Function
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Monitors and detects suspicious activity
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Monitors, detects, and prevents suspicious activity |
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Action
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Sends alerts to administrators
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Takes immediate action (e.g., blocking traffic)
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Response
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Passive response (logs and alerts)
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Active response (blocks, rejects, or drops traffic) |
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Placement
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Typically placed outside the firewall
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Typically placed in-line with traffic
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Interference with Traffic
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Does not interfere with normal traffic
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Can interfere with normal traffic if false positives occur |
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Usage
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Used primarily for detection and alerting
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Used for both detection and prevention
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Configuration
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Easier to configure and manage
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More complex to configure and manage due to the need for action rules |
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Impact on Network Performance
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Minimal impact on network performance
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Can introduce latency and impact network performance
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Example Scenarios
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Detecting port scans, identifying abnormal traffic patterns
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Blocking an IP address that is performing a DoS attack |
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FAQ ❓
Q: How can this course benefit my career?
A: This course provides a solid foundation in networking and security, which are critical skills in the IT industry. It prepares you for more advanced studies and roles in network administration, cybersecurity, and IT management.
Q: What if I need additional help or have questions during the course?
A: You can reach out to your course instructor or mentor for additional help. WGU also offers various support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and technical support.
Q: How long does it take to complete this course?
A: The time it takes to complete the course can vary depending on your pace and schedule. However, it is typically designed to be completed within a standard academic term.
Q: What if I fail the objective assessment?
A: If you do not pass the objective assessment, you will have the opportunity to retake it. Your mentor can help you identify areas where you need improvement and provide additional resources to help you prepare for the retake.
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Conclusion 📄
As you embark on your journey through the Network and Security – Foundations WGU D315 module, we encourage you to take the advice provided in this article to improve your study approach. By following the tips and strategies we’ve outlined, you’ll be better prepared to understand and master the course content. Utilize the study guide we have provided to easily navigate through the material and confidently pass the objective assessment. Focus on the key topics discussed, such as network systems, communication protocols, security vulnerabilities, risk mitigation, and security management policies. These foundational concepts are crucial for your success in both this course and your future career in IT.
Good luck, and may your efforts lead you to great success in the Network and Security – Foundations module!
