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Introduction to Cisco Networking - CCNA Prep

4.3 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 927 ratings
see reviews
Matt Carey

Master these topics

  • Network Fundamentals

  • LAN Switching Fundamentals

  • Routing Fundamentals

  • Infrastructure Services

  • Infrastructure Maintenance

Student Feedback

-"I've gone through skillsoft and Cbt Nuggets, the differance between this is that its in laymans terms and very easy for me to understand, compared to others,"

-"I am slowly starting to understand I am anxious to get to the next video. The training videos I watched from other companies didn't go into detail like he does"

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Cisco networking
  • Subnetting
  • Configure cisco routers and switches
  • Deploy a lan
  • Troubleshoot networking issues
  • Knowledge to interview for a networking job
  • Start a career in networking

Syllabus

Interface Basics
Network Fundamentals
Inter-VLAN Routing
Network Basics
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers subnetting, VLANs, routing protocols, and other topics that are heavily emphasized on the CCNA exam
Includes hands-on configuration of Cisco routers and switches, which is essential for practical networking skills
Provides knowledge to interview for a networking job, which can help learners transition into the IT field
Explores infrastructure services like DNS, DHCP, and NAT, which are crucial for understanding network operations
Teaches troubleshooting networking issues, which is a valuable skill for maintaining network stability and performance
Features password recovery, software upgrades, and other maintenance tasks, which are important for network administration

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Reviews summary

Clear, foundational cisco networking prep

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation and is an excellent starting point for learning networking basics and preparing for the CCNA. Many appreciate the clear explanations, noting how complex topics like subnetting are made easy to understand. The pace is just right for beginners, and the included Packet Tracer labs are considered helpful for practice. While it covers fundamental concepts well, some students note that the course may require supplementary study and that some content could be dated for the requirements of the current CCNA exam.
Practical labs reinforce understanding.
"The labs were really helpful for hands-on practice."
"The Packet Tracer labs were useful, although relatively simple."
"Labs are basic but help reinforce concepts."
Provides a solid base for exam topics.
"Covers most of the fundamental concepts needed for the CCNA."
"This course laid a strong foundation for me."
"Helped me pass the ICND1 part (before the exam changed)."
Concepts are easy to understand for beginners.
"Explained complex topics like subnetting in such a simple way."
"The instructor's explanations are top-notch. He breaks down difficult concepts logically."
"Everything was explained clearly, and the pace was just right."
"This course is explained in laymans terms and very easy for me to understand."
Content may be dated or lack depth for current exam.
"I found some topics weren't covered in sufficient detail for the current CCNA exam."
"It provides a good foundation, but definitely requires additional study for the latest CCNA."
"Not enough to pass the CCNA on its own, but a very good start."
"Some info seems a bit dated, especially regarding specific exam 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 Cisco Networking - CCNA Prep with these activities:
Review TCP/IP and OSI Models
Solidify your understanding of the TCP/IP and OSI models, which are fundamental to networking concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on TCP/IP Model
Show steps
  • Read articles or watch videos explaining the layers of each model.
  • Create a table comparing the layers and their functions.
  • Test your knowledge with online quizzes.
Read 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1'
Supplement your learning with the official CCNA certification guide, providing in-depth coverage of all exam topics.
View CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2 on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read each chapter carefully, taking notes on key concepts.
  • Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the key terms and concepts at the end of each part.
Subnetting Practice
Master subnetting through repetitive exercises, a crucial skill for configuring and troubleshooting networks.
Show steps
  • Use online subnet calculators to solve practice problems.
  • Work through subnetting exercises in a textbook or online course.
  • Time yourself to improve speed and accuracy.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Subnetting Cheat Sheet
Develop a subnetting cheat sheet to reinforce your understanding of subnetting concepts and provide a quick reference guide.
Show steps
  • Summarize the key subnetting concepts and formulas.
  • Organize the information in a clear and concise format.
  • Share the cheat sheet with other students for feedback.
Configure Port Security
Follow tutorials to learn how to configure port security on Cisco switches, enhancing network security skills.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on configuring port security on Cisco switches.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, configuring port security on a virtual switch.
  • Test the port security configuration to ensure it is working correctly.
Simulate a Small Network
Design and simulate a small network using packet tracer to apply learned concepts in a practical setting.
Show steps
  • Plan the network topology, including devices and IP addresses.
  • Configure routers and switches using Cisco IOS commands.
  • Test network connectivity and troubleshoot any issues.
Read 'Network Warrior'
Gain practical insights into network troubleshooting and maintenance with this real-world guide.
View Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read each chapter, focusing on the troubleshooting scenarios.
  • Take notes on the key troubleshooting techniques and commands.
  • Try to apply the techniques to your own network simulations.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Cisco Networking - CCNA Prep will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator is responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting an organization's computer networks. This role involves configuring network devices, managing network performance, and ensuring network security. This course, with its focus on network fundamentals, LAN switching, and routing, helps build a strong foundation for a Network Administrator. The course's hands-on training, particularly in configuring Cisco routers and switches and troubleshooting network issues, is directly applicable to the daily work of a Network Administrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Network Engineer
A Network Engineer designs, implements, and manages computer networks. This involves creating network infrastructure, selecting appropriate hardware and software, and ensuring network efficiency and reliability. This course may be useful for a Network Engineer as it provides deep technical knowledge on network protocols, routing, switching, and troubleshooting, covering many topics relevant to a network engineer's responsibilities. The course's focus on Cisco networking and its learning objectives on subnetting and deploying a LAN directly align with the core duties of network engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Network Analyst
A Network Analyst monitors network performance, analyzes network data, and identifies areas for improvement. This often involves using network diagnostic tools and interpreting network traffic patterns. This course helps build a foundation for a Network Analyst as the student may gain a deeper understanding of network infrastructure through the course's broad syllabus on fundamentals, switching, and routing. The course's focus in troubleshooting, along with its deep dive into multiple layers of the OSI model is especially crucial.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Analyst
Wireless Network Engineer
A Wireless Network Engineer specializes in the design, implementation, and management of wireless network infrastructures. This role involves optimizing wireless network performance, ensuring security, and troubleshooting connectivity. This course may be useful for a Wireless Network Engineer as it provides important fundamentals for understanding network infrastructure. The course's section on wireless technology as well as other networking fundamentals will be useful in this role. The course also covers various layers of the OSI model, which is crucial in diagnosing wireless network problems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wireless Network Engineer
Network Architect
A Network Architect designs and plans complex network systems, considering performance, scalability, and security. This role requires a deep understanding of networking technologies and the ability to make strategic design decisions. This course may be useful for a Network Architect, especially as a foundational training. The course's broad coverage of network fundamentals, switching, routing, and infrastructure services, particularly troubleshooting, can provide the basic understanding necessary before proceeding to higher level networking concepts. Advanced degrees are often required.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator maintains and manages computer systems, including servers, networks, and software. This role ensures smooth operations and resolves technical issues. While a Systems Administrator has broad responsibilities, a significant portion of their work involves network administration, making this course helpful. The course's curriculum on network fundamentals, infrastructure services like DNS and DHCP, and infrastructure maintenance will help a Systems Administrator understand network architecture, configurations, and troubleshooting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
IT Support Specialist
An Information Technology Support Specialist provides technical assistance and support for computer systems and networks. This often involves diagnosing and resolving user issues related to network connectivity and system access. This course, with its focus on network troubleshooting, provides an IT Support Specialist with the ability to diagnose and address network-related problems. The course will be particularly valuable for building a foundation in areas like Layer 1, Layer 2 and Layer 3 of the OSI model, which are critical for any IT Support Specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist
Security Operations Center Analyst
A Security Operations Center Analyst monitors, analyzes, and responds to security incidents detected within networks and systems. This role requires a foundational understanding of network infrastructure to detect and respond to network-based threats. This course may be useful as it introduces a student to network fundamentals. The course's focus on firewalls and access lists is also important for a Security Operations Center Analyst, as it builds a foundation to move into more advanced security subjects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Operations Center Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
A Cybersecurity Analyst protects computer systems and networks from cyber threats. This role involves monitoring network activity, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing security measures. While a Cybersecurity Analyst's role is broad, a foundational understanding of networking is essential. This course, with its coverage of firewalls, access lists, and password security, may be helpful. Gaining a deeper understanding of network infrastructure and protocols is a basic need for anyone wanting to enter the cybersecurity field, and this course provides it.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Cloud Support Engineer
A Cloud Support Engineer provides technical assistance for cloud-based services and infrastructure. This often involves troubleshooting connectivity problems and implementing secure network configurations. This course may be useful for a Cloud Support Engineer as many cloud infrastructures rely on the networking principles taught in the course. The course's focus on areas like address types and infrastructure services provide a good basis for work with cloud-enabled network services, like virtual private clouds.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Support Engineer
Technical Support Engineer
A Technical Support Engineer helps customers with technical issues related to products or services. This involves diagnosing issues, troubleshooting problems, and providing solutions. This course may find use for a Technical Support Engineer who specializes in network products and services, making the course's section on troubleshooting network issues valuable. The courses focus on network fundamentals and configurations will assist in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Engineer
Telecommunications Specialist
A Telecommunications Specialist focuses on the infrastructure for communications systems, including network systems. This role often involves configuring and maintaining telecommunications equipment and ensuring efficient network operations. The course may be useful for a Telecommunications Specialist, particularly in areas related to deploying and understanding LANs. The course's hands-on training on configuring network devices, especially Cisco routers and switches, will help provide a foundation for success.
See salaries and explore the career path for Telecommunications Specialist
Help Desk Technician
A Help Desk Technician provides initial support to users experiencing technical issues. This role often involves troubleshooting basic network connectivity problems. The course's material on network basics, TCP/IP and OSI models may be useful for a Help Desk Technician who needs to understand network issues from a foundational level. The training on troubleshooting will assist in identifying common issues that users might experience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Help Desk Technician
Field Service Technician
A Field Service Technician works on-site to install and maintain computer and network systems. This role involves hands-on work with network hardware and troubleshooting connectivity issues. The course may be useful for a Field Service Technician as it provides a solid understanding of network fundamentals and troubleshooting, especially with the course's learning objectives on subnetting and configuring routers and switches. The knowledge of network topologies may be useful in setting up systems on-site.
See salaries and explore the career path for Field Service Technician
IT Project Manager
An Information Technology Project Manager plans, executes, and manages technology related projects. This involves coordinating teams, managing budgets, and ensuring project completion. While this role doesn't require in-depth technical expertise, a basic understanding of networking concepts will be highly helpful. The course may be useful as it provides IT Project Managers with a foundation on network implementations, which is crucial for project planning and decision making.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Project Manager

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Cisco Networking - CCNA Prep.
Cover image
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Save
Is the official certification guide for the CCNA 200-301 exam. It provides comprehensive coverage of all exam topics, including network fundamentals, LAN switching, routing, wireless, security, and automation. This book valuable reference tool for students preparing for the CCNA exam and for networking professionals seeking to enhance their skills.
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Paperback
Check
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Arista Warrior
Save
Provides practical, real-world advice on network troubleshooting and maintenance. It covers a wide range of topics, including routing protocols, switching, security, and wireless networking. While not a direct CCNA study guide, it offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by network professionals and provides practical solutions. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.
Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on EOS
Paperback
$$
Arista Warrior: A Real-World Guide to Understanding...
Paperback
$$
Arista Warrior by Donahue (2012-10-27)
Paperback Bunko
$$$$
Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on EOS
Kindle Edition
$$

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Rating
4.3 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
8.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Matt Carey
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers subnetting, VLANs, routing protocols, and other topics that are heavily emphasized on the CCNA exam
Includes hands-on configuration of Cisco routers and switches, which is essential for practical networking skills
Provides knowledge to interview for a networking job, which can help learners transition into the IT field
Explores infrastructure services like DNS, DHCP, and NAT, which are crucial for understanding network operations
Teaches troubleshooting networking issues, which is a valuable skill for maintaining network stability and performance
Features password recovery, software upgrades, and other maintenance tasks, which are important for network administration
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