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Kevin Cardwell

This dynamic 4-hour course is designed to demystify the complexities of data communication networks. It provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the concepts, structures, and mechanisms that enable digital communication across different platforms and devices. This course will help you understand what is taking place each and every time you use your computer, phone or device!

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This dynamic 4-hour course is designed to demystify the complexities of data communication networks. It provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the concepts, structures, and mechanisms that enable digital communication across different platforms and devices. This course will help you understand what is taking place each and every time you use your computer, phone or device!

This course is ideal for IT professionals, network administrators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of data communication networks. With content tailored for those who have foundational knowledge in IT and are eager to advance their networking skills.

Participants should have a basic understanding of IT, computer operations, and foundational networking concepts. This background will help in grasping the advanced topics covered in the course.

After completing this course, learners will be able to identify the various components and their roles within a data communication network. They will distinguish among the major types of network topologies and assess the functions of key network protocols. Additionally, learners will formulate basic strategies for securing a data network, equipping them with essential skills for network management and security.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Understanding the Network Landscape
Module 1 provides an essential overview of data networking, examining the core components, topological structures, protocols, and fundamental network security concepts. Through a series of informative videos, learners will gain a foundational understanding of how modern communication systems are built and secured.
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Advanced Network Principles
Module 2 delves into advanced network security, virtualization, and cloud networking principles. Participants will explore sophisticated security mechanisms, the virtualization of network functions, and the design considerations for cloud-based network environments.
Network Design & Management
Module 3 focuses on the principles and practices of network design and management. Participants will gain insights into routing protocol selection, Quality of Service (QoS) configuration, network monitoring tools, and disaster recovery planning to ensure efficient, reliable, and resilient network operations.
Emerging Technologies
Module 4 explores the integration of emerging technologies into modern networks, including IoT, edge computing, and the application of AI and ML for network optimization and automation, highlighting the latest trends, challenges, and solutions.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores core data networking concepts, structures, and mechanisms standard in the IT industry
Develops foundational networking knowledge and skills for IT professionals and network administrators
Enhances understanding for those with foundational IT and networking knowledge
Taught by Kevin Cardwell, an experienced and recognized instructor in the field of data communications
Requires some foundational knowledge in IT and computer operations, which may not be suitable for complete beginners

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Data Communication Networks with these activities:
Review concepts and foundations: Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach
Review the fundamental principles and concepts of computer networking to strengthen your understanding before diving into the course material.
Show steps
  • Read and take notes on chapters 1 and 2
  • Complete the end-of-chapter exercises and review questions
  • Summarize the key concepts in a short written summary
Attend a workshop on advanced network protocols
Expand your knowledge by attending a workshop focused on advanced network protocols, gaining insights from experts and practical demonstrations.
Browse courses on Network Protocols
Show steps
  • Identify relevant workshops and register to attend
  • Actively participate in the workshop sessions
  • Take detailed notes and ask questions to enhance your understanding
  • Follow up on topics discussed after the workshop
Experiment with packet simulators
Enhance your understanding of network behavior and protocols by experimenting with packet simulators.
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  • Choose a packet simulator and install it
  • Create a simple network topology for testing
  • Send and capture packets to observe their behavior
Five other activities
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Test your skills by configuring networking scenarios in a virtual environment
Enhance your practical skills by configuring and testing network scenarios in a virtual environment, allowing you to experiment with real-world scenarios without risk.
Browse courses on Network Configuration
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  • Set up a virtual network environment using tools like VMware or GNS3
  • Configure routers and switches within the virtual network
  • Simulate network traffic and observe the behavior of network devices
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise during the configuration process
Engage in peer discussions on network design principles
Participate in peer discussions to exchange ideas and perspectives on network design principles, broadening your understanding and learning from the collective knowledge of the group.
Browse courses on Network Design
Show steps
  • Join a study group or online forum focused on network design
  • Share your ideas and participate in discussions on various network design topics
  • Collaborate on projects or case studies related to network design
Build a small-scale network from scratch
Gain hands-on experience by building and configuring a small-scale network, putting your knowledge into practice and reinforcing your understanding.
Browse courses on Network Architecture
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  • Gather the necessary hardware (routers, switches, cables)
  • Design the network topology and configuration settings
  • Assemble and connect the network components
  • Configure the network devices and test connectivity
  • Monitor the network and troubleshoot any issues that arise
Design and present a case study on network security
Apply your knowledge of network principles to present a case study that analyzes real-world network security challenges and solutions.
Browse courses on network security
Show steps
  • Choose an organization or scenario to use as a case study
  • Identify the network security challenges faced by the organization
  • Design a network security solution to address the identified challenges
  • Create a slide presentation or report outlining your case study
  • Present your case study to your classmates or colleagues
Volunteer as a mentor for junior IT professionals or students
Strengthen your understanding while giving back by mentoring others, sharing your knowledge and providing guidance.
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor through organizations or educational institutions
  • Connect with mentees and provide support in their networking journey
  • Share your experiences, knowledge, and best practices

Career center

Learners who complete Data Communication Networks will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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