New Training: Network Diagrams and Documentation

In this 9-video skill, CBT Nuggets trainer Jeremy Cioara teaches you how to manage networks by using proper documentation and diagrams, including logical and physical diagrams; documenting wire and port locations; as well as change management and baseline monitoring. Watch this new networking training.

Watch the full course: CompTIA Network+

This training includes:

• 9 videos

• 52 minutes of training

You’ll learn these topics in this skill:

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Network Documentation is Fun!

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Creating Logical Network Diagrams

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Creating Physical Diagrams

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Naming Conventions and Labeling

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Documenting Wiring and Port Locations

• Network Diagram & Documentation: SOPs and Work Instructions

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Network Change Management

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Configuration and Monitoring Baselines

• Network Diagram & Documentation: Inventory Management

Some Recommendations for Better Network Diagrams

Learning to diagram networks can be a long process. There are tools and software to learn, concepts about topologies to grasp and complicated hardware interactions to remember. As you go along making your network diagrams, there are some things you can do to make your life a little bit easier.

First of all, color-code your connecting lines. This might seem painfully obvious, but taking the time to use specific colors for each cable type or protocol can keep the whole diagram neat and reveal things you might otherwise overlook.

Next, use color to differentiate different LANs or divisions. A simple colored background can do a lot to clarify where endpoints and connections are originating and terminating, and why. Third, don’t be afraid to change the size of your connection symbols. If you’re finding it tricky to differentiate ports or connections because they’re too small — make it bigger.

The last tip is about how to start: with a paper and pencil. Network diagrams are meant to clarify and simplify. Being forced to use a paper and pencil can help you think in simplifying terms and see what does and doesn’t work about your network diagram.