Intro to Networking 101

AVE Standard | 1 Day | In-Person

Overview

Modern AV production runs on networks. Dante audio, NDI video, device control, streaming, and show automation all depend on a properly configured network to function reliably. For AV technicians who were trained primarily on analog or traditional digital signal chains, networking is often the skill that creates the most uncertainty on-site. This course removes that uncertainty. Networking 101 covers IP fundamentals and network design, VLANs, device communication, and real-time troubleshooting, with a specific focus on corporate AV environments where these skills are most frequently applied. Participants leave knowing how to confidently set up and manage a show network and diagnose issues when something is not behaving as it should.

This Class Is Right For You If...

• You're an AV technician whose shows are increasingly network-dependent, and you want to understand what you're working with

• You've been on site when a Dante network went down, or a device wouldn't communicate, and you didn't know where to start.

• You're a production manager who wants your team to be able to set up and troubleshoot show networks independently.

• You're building toward a systems integration or technical direction role that requires networking knowledge.

Career Level

Mid-Level to Engineer: Designed for technicians with working knowledge of AV systems who are ready to add networking as a core competency. No formal networking background is required, but comfort with digital AV signal flow is helpful.

What You'll Learn

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Apply IP addressing fundamentals in a show network environment.

• Design a basic show network for a corporate AV production.

• Configure and manage VLANs for device separation and traffic management

• Set up and troubleshoot Dante audio networking on a show network.

• Diagnose common device communication issues and resolve them systematically.

• Use Stream Deck for show control in networked AV environments.

• Communicate clearly with IT departments, venue network teams, and system integrators.

A Day in Class

Class moves between concept and hands-on application throughout the day. Participants configure real network environments, connect AV devices, and work through troubleshooting scenarios built around actual show-site problems. The Stream Deck integration component gives participants a practical application layer for the networking skills they build. Instructors review participant configurations and provide direct feedback on design decisions, troubleshooting logic, and best practices for working within venue and client network environments.

What You Leave With

Participants receive an AVE Networking 101 certificate of completion, a show network design reference guide, and a troubleshooting checklist for common on-site networking issues. These materials are designed to be used on the job, not filed away after class.

Reducing Risk

Network failures on a show can take down audio, video, lighting control, and show automation simultaneously. Technicians who do not understand the network they are working on cannot diagnose or resolve those failures quickly. A team with trained networking knowledge reduces show-site downtime, works more effectively with venue IT teams, and is prepared for the increasingly network-dependent nature of professional AV production.

Instructor

Christopher Brown, AVE lead instructor and experienced AV systems professional with deep working knowledge of show networking, Dante, and networked AV environments.

Course Details

Duration: 1x day

Format: In-Person, Hands-On

Class Size: Maximum 10x students