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Microsoft

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.

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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.

Enroll now

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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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
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

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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
Strengthen your understanding of the fundamental TCP/IP protocol
Browse courses on TCP/IP
Show steps
  • Revisit the basics of TCP/IP and its layers
  • Review the functions of key protocols like IP, TCP, and UDP
Cloud computing fundamentals
Gain an understanding of cloud architecture and Azure services
Browse courses on Cloud Computing
Show steps
  • Understand the concept of cloud computing
  • Explore different cloud service models
  • Focus on Microsoft Azure platform
Learn routing protocols
Master fundamental routing protocols like OSPF and BGP
Browse courses on Routing Protocols
Show steps
  • 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
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
VLAN configuration exercises
Practice configuring and managing VLANs to segment your network
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Learn about VLANs and their benefits
  • Configure VLANs on switches and routers
  • Verify VLAN functionality
Design a network topology
Apply your knowledge to design and document a network topology
Browse courses on Network Design
Show steps
  • 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
Develop practical troubleshooting skills for network issues
Browse courses on Troubleshooting
Show steps
  • Identify common network issues
  • Use network monitoring tools to diagnose problems
  • Practice troubleshooting scenarios
Network security hands-on workshop
Acquire hands-on experience in implementing network security measures
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • 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:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Secure Networking.
Key resource for those wanting to implement network security monitoring. It focuses on the practical aspects of collecting, detecting, and analyzing network data to identify security incidents. It's highly relevant for professionals involved in security operations centers (SOCs) and incident response.
This is the latest edition of the comprehensive guide to configuring and managing Palo Alto Networks firewalls. It includes updates on recent features, including cloud and security enhancements, making it highly relevant for professionals working with the latest PAN-OS versions. It's a must-have for those seeking in-depth knowledge and practical skills in managing Palo Alto firewalls.
Is widely regarded as an excellent introductory textbook for networking. It uses a top-down approach, starting from the application layer and moving down the protocol stack, which helps beginners grasp the concepts in a relatable manner. It's commonly used in undergraduate university programs and provides a solid foundation for understanding how networks function. This book is valuable as a primary learning resource.
Is an essential guide for anyone looking to understand network traffic through packet analysis using Wireshark. It provides practical techniques and case studies for network administrators and security analysts, making it highly relevant for gaining a deep understanding of network monitoring at the packet level. It's often recommended for its hands-on approach and real-world applicability.
As the official study guide for the Wireshark Certified Network Analyst certification, this book comprehensive resource for mastering Wireshark for network analysis. It includes case studies and exercises to help users effectively analyze network traffic and troubleshoot issues.
A more in-depth exploration than 'Network Security Essentials,' this book delves into the theory and practice of cryptography and network security. It covers a wide range of topics, from encryption algorithms to network security applications. comprehensive resource often used as a textbook for undergraduate and graduate-level courses.
While not solely focused on monitoring, this classic and foundational text for understanding the TCP/IP protocol suite, which is essential for effective network monitoring. A deep understanding of how networks function at this level prerequisite for advanced monitoring and troubleshooting. It is widely considered a must-read for network professionals.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks, including the TCP/IP protocol suite. It good resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deep understanding of the subject.
This guide is designed for network security professionals and IT administrators looking to master Palo Alto Networks firewalls. It covers everything from initial setup to advanced configurations, including firewall policies, VPNs, threat prevention, and integration with cloud security. is highly relevant for those working with or planning to work with Palo Alto Networks firewalls and provides practical, hands-on knowledge.
Specifically focuses on using Wireshark for network troubleshooting, a direct application of network monitoring. It provides practical guidance and exercises for identifying and resolving performance issues by analyzing packet captures. It's a valuable hands-on resource for network professionals.
Offers a practical introduction to penetration testing and ethical hacking. It guides readers through the process of identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in networks and systems. It hands-on guide suitable for those interested in offensive security and understanding how attackers operate.
Based on real bug bounty reports, this book offers practical insights into finding vulnerabilities in web applications. It's a valuable resource for aspiring bug bounty hunters and those interested in learning about common web security flaws through real-world examples.
A practical and accessible guide to networking, this book focuses on real-world network devices and configurations. It's particularly useful for those looking to understand the practical aspects of networking beyond theoretical concepts. It's a valuable resource for undergraduate students and working professionals seeking hands-on knowledge.
This official certification guide is designed for individuals preparing for the Cisco CCNA exam. It provides detailed coverage of networking concepts, including the OSI and TCP/IP models, from a practical, Cisco-centric perspective. It's an essential resource for those pursuing Cisco certifications and offers in-depth knowledge relevant to the professional application of networking principles. Suitable for advanced undergraduates and professionals.
Offers a clear and accessible introduction to data communications and networking concepts. It covers the OSI model and TCP/IP protocol suite in detail, using a bottom-up approach with numerous illustrations. It's a widely used textbook for undergraduate courses and is valuable for gaining a broad understanding of the subject matter without overly complex formulas.
This practical guide covers the techniques and tools for assessing and testing the security of network infrastructures. It valuable resource for network security professionals seeking to enhance their skills in this area.
This practical guide covers the design, implementation, and management of wireless networks. It valuable resource for network engineers and administrators seeking to enhance their skills in wireless networking.
Provides a detailed explanation of the TCP/IP protocol suite, with a focus on how the protocols work together to provide end-to-end communication.
SNMP fundamental protocol used in network monitoring and management. provides a practical introduction to SNMP, covering its basics, configuration, and use in network administration. It's a valuable resource for understanding how to collect data from network devices for monitoring purposes.
Is aimed at system administrators and covers networking concepts from a practical, hands-on perspective. It includes topics like TCP/IP, connectivity testing, and network design and management. It's valuable for both beginners and experienced administrators who need to understand networking for their roles.
While centered on web operations, this book provides valuable strategies for effective monitoring and alerting in distributed systems. The principles and techniques discussed are highly applicable to network monitoring in modern, complex environments. It focuses on a data-driven approach to identifying and responding to issues.
A companion to 'Data Communications and Networking' by the same author, this book dives deeper into the TCP/IP protocol suite. It explains the protocols at each layer of the TCP/IP model, drawing parallels to the OSI model. This valuable resource for understanding the specifics of the internet's core protocols and their relationship to layered architectures. Suitable for undergraduate and graduate students.
Focuses on using Python for network automation and programming. It's a practical guide for those who want to leverage programming skills in a networking context. This is relevant for contemporary networking practices and is suitable for students and professionals interested in network automation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of network management concepts, protocols, and technologies. It valuable resource for network engineers and administrators responsible for managing and maintaining network infrastructures.
Authored by a pfSense co-founder and consultant, this book serves as a comprehensive guide to the pfSense open-source firewall. It covers installation, basic configuration, advanced networking, and firewalling. While the referenced edition is older (2009) , it is considered a foundational text for understanding pfSense. It's valuable for those interested in open-source firewall solutions and provides a deep dive into pfSense's capabilities.
Provides a practical introduction to modern encryption, focusing on the algorithms and techniques used in real-world applications. It strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical implementation, making it suitable for students and practitioners interested in the cryptographic foundations of network security.
A deep dive into the security framework of modern networks and cryptography, this book covers the theory behind encryption and practical applications for securing digital infrastructures. It addresses counter-hack strategies and network security assessment tactics crucial for computer science students and cybersecurity professionals. While not solely focused on firewalls, it provides essential foundational knowledge in cryptography and network security that is highly relevant to understanding how firewalls function within a secure system.
Combines ethical hacking concepts with network analysis using Wireshark. It's relevant for understanding how network monitoring tools can be used to identify vulnerabilities and analyze malicious traffic. It provides a security-focused perspective on network analysis.
This textbook focuses on networking from a business perspective, covering data communications and networking concepts relevant to business applications. It includes real-life case studies, making it valuable for students who want to understand the practical implications of networking in a business context. It's suitable for undergraduate students, particularly those in business or information systems programs.
Focusing on network automation using Ansible, this book is relevant to contemporary network monitoring by showing how automation can be used for tasks like configuration verification and data collection. It provides practical examples for implementing automation in network operations.
Considered a classic in the field, this book provides a detailed look at cryptographic protocols and algorithms. While some of the algorithms may be dated, the principles and many of the protocols remain relevant. It valuable reference for understanding the underlying cryptographic concepts used in network security.
A classic in the field of information security, this book discusses security in a broad context, emphasizing the human element and the realities of defending against threats. While not a technical guide to firewalls, it provides crucial insights into the fundamental challenges of digital security that are relevant to understanding the limitations and importance of firewalls as part of a layered security approach. It is considered a must-read for anyone in the cybersecurity field.
Offers a high-level, accessible introduction to how the internet works. It's a good starting point for absolute beginners who want to understand the basic concepts and technologies behind the internet without getting bogged down in excessive technical detail. It's valuable for providing background knowledge.
Explores firewalls within the context of effective security planning, policy, and integration with other security tools like intrusion detection systems. It provides a solid, in-depth introduction focusing on both managerial and technical aspects of security. It valuable resource for understanding the strategic importance of firewalls and how they function as part of a comprehensive security infrastructure.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to networking, often used in academic settings. It covers networking fundamentals, including the OSI model, network topologies, and protocols, in a clear and structured manner. It good resource for students seeking a solid understanding of basic networking principles. Suitable for high school and undergraduate students.
This open textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking, covering the OSI model and TCP/IP in detail. It's a good resource for students seeking a free and accessible option for learning networking fundamentals. It takes a top-down approach, similar to Kurose and Ross. Suitable for undergraduate students.
Specifically focuses on the OSI reference model within the context of telecommunications. It provides a detailed examination of each layer and its functions, offering a specialized perspective on the model's application in telecommunications networks. Suitable for students and professionals with a specific interest in this area.
This textbook is designed for the CompTIA Network+ certification and provides a solid introduction to networking concepts, including the OSI model. It's known for its clear explanations and hands-on activities, making it suitable for students and those preparing for industry certifications. It's a good resource for building foundational networking knowledge.
Provides a broader perspective on network analysis, architecture, and design. Understanding network design principles is beneficial for comprehending why networks are monitored in certain ways and what metrics are most important. It provides foundational knowledge that supports effective monitoring strategies.
A classic true story of early network intrusion detection, this book provides a captivating account of tracking a hacker through computer networks. While predating modern network security tools, it offers timeless lessons in vigilance, investigation, and the human element of security. It's an engaging read for anyone interested in the history of cybersecurity.
Explores the dark side of technological advancement and its implications for security and privacy. While not a technical guide, it provides a thought-provoking look at emerging threats and the future of cybercrime, offering valuable context for understanding the evolving landscape of network security.
This true story of tracking a computer intruder in the early days of networking provides a compelling look at network security incidents. While not a technical manual on firewalls, it illustrates the importance of vigilance, monitoring, and understanding network activity to detect malicious behavior, skills relevant to firewall administration and analysis. It's a classic and engaging read for anyone interested in the history of cybersecurity.

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