A comprehensive introduction to networking — from basic connectivity and IP addressing to security, troubleshooting, and Cisco device configuration.
Networking Essentials provides learners with a broad foundational understanding of networking, suitable for anyone interested in a career in IT or a related field. This course covers the foundation of networking and network devices, how to use different network applications and protocols, how to provide IP addresses to devices both manually and automatically, how the physical, data link, and network layers work together to provide end-to-end connectivity, and how to perform basic network diagnostics and troubleshooting. The course also teaches the foundations of security, covering network and computer threats, application attacks, wireless and mobile device attacks, and how to perform basic secure wireless configuration. No prior networking experience is required.
Curriculum Chapters
- 1. Communications in a Connected World
- 2. Network Components, Types, and Connections
- 3. Wireless and Mobile Networks
- 4. Build a Home Network
- 5. Communication Principles
- 6. Network Media
- 7. The Access Layer
- 8. The Internet Protocol
- 9. IPv4 and Network Segmentation
- 10. IPv6 Addressing Formats and Rules
- 11. Dynamic Addressing with DHCP
- 12. Gateways to Other Networks
- 13. The ARP Process
- 14. Routing Between Networks
- 15. TCP and UDP
- 16. Application Layer Services
- 17. Network Testing Utilities
- 18. Network Design
- 19. Cloud and Virtualization
- 20. Number Systems
- 21. Ethernet Switching
- 22. Network Layer
- 23. IPv4 Address Structure
- 24. Address Resolution
- 25. IP Addressing Services
- 26. Transport Layer
- 27. The Cisco IOS Command Line
- 28. Build a Small Cisco Network
- 29. ICMP
- 30. Physical Layer
- 31. Data Link Layer
- 32. Routing at the Network Layer
- 33. IPv6 Addressing
- 34. IPv6 Neighbor Discovery
- 35. Cisco Switches and Routers
- 36. Troubleshoot Common Network Problems
- 37. Network Support
- 38. Cybersecurity Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Attacks
- 39. Network Security
Skills You Will Learn
Explain fundamental networking concepts and communication principles. Configure mobile devices and home wireless routers for secure internet access. Understand IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, subnetting, and DHCP. Use the Cisco IOS command line to configure switches and routers. Build and test a small Cisco network. Apply troubleshooting methodologies and use diagnostic tools. Explain virtualization and cloud services. Identify cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks. Configure secure user access on a network.
Technologies Used
Cisco Packet Tracer (latest version)
Cisco IOS CLI
Network Reference Models (OSI / TCP-IP)
Course Details
Course Type: Instructor-led
Time: 70 Hours
Modules: 39
Labs: 48 practice labs & 160+ interactive activities, videos & quizzes
Prerequisites
Basic computer and internet browsing skills.
Certification & Career
Career and Certification alignment: This course is part of the Cisco Networking learning pathway and prepares learners for entry-level roles such as Network Support Technician, Help Desk Technician, and IT Support Specialist. The course aligns with the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking certification. The recommended next certifications are the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and CyberOps Associate.
Achievements & Badges
Upon completion, earn a Cisco Networking Academy digital badge. Share your verified achievement on LinkedIn, your CV, or professional profile.
What Cisco verifies: Cisco verifies the earner of this badge successfully completed the Networking Essentials course and achieved this student level credential. Earner has foundational knowledge of networking concepts including IP addressing, network protocols, and the OSI and TCP/IP models, can configure home wireless networks and Cisco devices, troubleshoot basic network connectivity issues, and understands core cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and secure access controls.