Off Topic Question Network Fundamentals

[Dean]

Sorry to ask this here, but it seems that the folks that frequent this site have the knowledge and experience to answer this question. Clearly today an understanding of network concepts is required to harness the functionality of modern control equipment. My boss has encouraged me to pursue some course work in this area. Might even get come actual money to do this. We are a small manufacturer with no IT dept, unless you count one associate and myself who just happen to know a little more than everyone else. Anyway, I've done a little research into the various certs, as well as numerous online courses from coursera, udemy, etc. All this has done is confuse me. My goals are to be able to manage our small office network, as well as implement what we want to do on the industrial side. If you were going to advise someone on this question what would you recommend. Any advice is appreciated.

[plcnut]

Check out this thread: http://forum.hosteng.com/index.php/topic,1201.0.html
The Juniper Networks is a great tutorial.

[Dean]

Thanks, I'll check it out. I also stumbled across a site called cybrary.it that has material on preparing for the CompTIA certifications. I'm still researching the costs and whether the CompTIA certs are worth it or not.

[ADC Product Engineer]

I have taken the CompTIA certified courses.  They have great info...If you need to know absolutely every nut and bolt in setting up a network.

For most folks the certified courses are overkill and a bit overwhelming without a good starter background.  I would look for a community college or other course that is a bit more simplified myself. If you really want to get into the bits and pieces they are a good way to go, just don't expect them to be easy.