Week 9: Hands-on Networking Experience

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Week 9: Hands-on Networking Experience

    This week provided a valuable opportunity to expand my technical skills as we were assigned to rotate through the hospital's Network Department. Under the guidance of Sir Jam, a network specialist, we were introduced to fundamental networking concepts through practical exercises in a controlled test environment.

    The hands-on session began with basic file-sharing configurations between test computers. Sir Jam walked us through the step-by-step process of setting up shared folders, managing permissions, and troubleshooting connection issues. To my surprise, I was the first one called to demonstrate the setup, which made me a little nervous but also eager to apply what we’d just learned. It was interesting to see how these basic networking functions, which I've used casually before, actually work from the administrative side.

    We then moved on to wifi configuration exercises, where we learned how to set up and secure wireless networks on test access points. Just like before, I was the first to demonstrate, but this time, I felt more confident, smoothly adjusting settings as Sir Jam guided the group. He emphasized the importance of proper security in a healthcare environment, explaining how encryption methods and authentication protocols impact both performance and data protection.

    While these were simplified exercises using test equipment, they gave me a new appreciation for the network infrastructure that supports all the hospital's systems. The session also highlighted how even basic networking tasks require careful attention to detail - one mistyped IP address or incorrect subnet mask can prevent entire systems from communicating properly.

    This week's experience complemented my previous work with HOMIS and help desk operations by showing me the underlying network that makes everything connect. Though we only scratched the surface of networking, the practical exercises helped demystify some of the technology I've been working with indirectly throughout my OJT. I'm looking forward to applying this knowledge as we approach the final weeks of training. 


                

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