Introduction to Secure Networking from Coursera

This course has been designed for individuals seeking entry-level positions in IT support. Whether you're a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone looking to kickstart your career in the tech industry, it will provide you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the field of IT support.

In this course, you’ll cover the basics of computer networking, including the TCP/IP and OSI models. You'll learn how different network layers and devices work together. You'll also explore common network infrastructure and monitoring techniques as well as the physical and data link layers in more detail. By the end of the course, you'll have an overview of important components for an IT Support Specialist focused on maintaining the security of corporate networks.

After completing this course, you’ll be able to:

• Identify the main concepts of networking.

• Explain common network infrastructure and monitoring techniques.

• Describe network security components, approaches, and mitigation strategies.

This is also a great way to prepare for the Microsoft MS-900 exam. By passing the MS-900 exam, you’ll earn the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification.

What's inside

Syllabus

Computer networking

This module deals with the fundamental structure and type of a network, and explores the core element of IP addresses.you will learn how a physical network is put together as well as its underlying logic. You will also discover the reason behind the need for IP addresses and how they form the basis for network communication.

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Teaches network security components, enabling learners to develop core IT support skills

Taught by Microsoft, renowned for its expertise in the IT industry

Provides a foundational understanding of IT support

Covers TCP/IP and OSI models, core networking concepts

Provides hands-on labs and interactive materials, enhancing practical skills

Requires students to come in with some background knowledge in IT

Reviews summary

Foundational secure networking for it support

According to learners, "Introduction to Secure Networking" is a highly effective foundational course for those new to IT support. Many praise its clear explanations and engaging practical exercises, making complex topics accessible. It provides a solid understanding of network basics and security components, helping students prepare for the MS-900 exam. However, some students found the cloud computing module somewhat disconnected from the core networking themes and wished for deeper technical dives. Overall, it's considered an excellent starting point for a career in secure IT networking.

Appears to be actively updated, addressing earlier feedback.

"Absolutely loved this course. The updated content, especially on network security, felt very current."

"I felt some of the content, especially around network security devices, could have been more current."

"It's encouraging to see the course being updated; the recent improvements are noticeable."

Serves as a useful, though not exhaustive, preparation for MS-900.

"This course prepped me well for some aspects of MS-900."

"The MS-900 prep aspect is a nice bonus, but I wouldn't rely solely on this for the exam."

"I found it a good overview for MS-900."

Features useful hands-on exercises and real-world examples.

"The labs really helped solidify my understanding. I particularly appreciated the section on firewalls and network monitoring."

"The practical exercises were relevant and kept me engaged. The focus on real-world scenarios made the concepts stick."

"I found the practical application of firewalls and understanding common threats invaluable."

Provides a clear and accessible introduction to networking.

"Fantastic introduction to secure networking concepts. The explanations were clear, and the labs really helped solidify my understanding."

"As an absolute beginner, this course was perfect! The instructor explained complex topics in an easy-to-digest manner."

"I truly gained a strong foundation. The structured approach from basics to security was very effective."

"The instructor's pacing felt just right, and the quizzes reinforced my learning effectively."

Offers introductory depth; may require further study for advanced topics.

"Some parts felt a little rushed, especially the deeper dives into security protocols. I had to look up external resources frequently."

"This course was very basic, probably too basic for me, having some existing IT knowledge. I wished for more challenge."

"The course often felt like a summary rather than detailed learning. The network security part needs more practical examples, not just theory."

Opinions divided on the relevance of the cloud computing module.

"I found the cloud computing module a bit too high-level, felt like an overview rather than in-depth."

"The 'Cloud computing' module felt out of place and seemed tacked on and not well integrated with secure networking itself."

"I felt the cloud module was unrelated to the core networking topics."

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 Introduction to Secure Networking with these activities:

Review TCP/IP protocol

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Strengthen your understanding of the fundamental TCP/IP protocol

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Revisit the basics of TCP/IP and its layers
Review the functions of key protocols like IP, TCP, and UDP

Cloud computing fundamentals

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Gain an understanding of cloud architecture and Azure services

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Understand the concept of cloud computing
Explore different cloud service models
Focus on Microsoft Azure platform

Learn routing protocols

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Master fundamental routing protocols like OSPF and BGP

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Start with a basic understanding of network routing
Learn about the different types of routing protocols
Focus on OSPF and BGP routing protocols
Review examples and practice configuring these protocols

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VLAN configuration exercises

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Practice configuring and managing VLANs to segment your network

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Learn about VLANs and their benefits
Configure VLANs on switches and routers
Verify VLAN functionality

Design a network topology

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Apply your knowledge to design and document a network topology

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Gather requirements and determine network needs
Design the network topology using industry best practices
Document the network design in a clear and concise manner

Network troubleshooting exercises

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Develop practical troubleshooting skills for network issues

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Identify common network issues
Use network monitoring tools to diagnose problems
Practice troubleshooting scenarios

Network security hands-on workshop

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Acquire hands-on experience in implementing network security measures

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Configure firewalls and intrusion detection systems
Perform network security audits
Learn about advanced security techniques

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Secure Networking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Introduction to Secure Networking

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What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational secure networking for it support

Activities

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