We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Computer Networking

In this course, you will study the fundamental concepts involved in interconnecting devices for communications. You will also explore protocols, network hardware, and network services. The career skills acquired in this course will begin your journey into the world of networking.

At the end of the course, you will be able to:

- Compare and contrast Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP) ports, protocols, and their purposes.

- Analyze and compare common networking hardware.

- Compare and contrast protocols for wireless networking.

- Summarize services provided by networked hosts.

- Summarize common network configuration concepts.

- Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features.

Software requirements: A Linux/Unix terminal or Windows command prompt. Cisco Packet tracer, Wireshark

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Two deals to help you save

We found two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.

Save money when you learn. All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Ended October 1

Coursera Plus sale

Unlock unlimited access to 7,000+ programs from the likes of Microsoft, Google, IBM, and Meta.

Take

30%

off

Valid for a limited time only

Future-proof your career

Access O'Reilly books, live events, courses, and more. Save with an annual subscription.

Take

15%

off

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Network Hardware

Welcome to Computer Networking! In this course, we will cover the topics of: Network Hardware, Protocols, and Wireless Technology. This module explores communication networks. It examines basic network hardware and communication protocols. The module provides methods for creating networks and discusses network topologies, specifically local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN).

Module 2: Protocols

This module compares how data is sent over the internet using Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP). It explores how each uses an Internet Protocol (IP) address for transferring data but through different processes. The module identifies services available through network hosts.

Module 3: Wireless Technology

This module investigates basics of wireless technology. It explores wireless security and the standard for information technology, specifically IEEE 802.11.

Summative Course Assessment

This module contains the summative course assessment that has been designed to evaluate your understanding of the course material and assess your ability to apply the knowledge you have acquired throughout the course. Be sure to review the course material thoroughly before taking the assessment.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops fundamentals in computer networking, which is essential for IT roles

Taught by Kevin Vaccaro, who is an expert in computer networking

Uses Cisco Packet Tracer and Wireshark, industry-standard tools for network analysis

Provides foundational knowledge and skills for networking careers

Covers network hardware, protocols, and wireless technologies, which are fundamental to networking

Requires background in Linux/Unix or Windows command prompt, which may not be accessible to all learners

Save this course

Save Computer Networking to your list so you can find it easily later:

Save

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 Computer Networking with these activities:

Review of Basic Networking Concepts

Show steps

Refresh your foundational networking knowledge before starting the course.

Browse courses on Network Hardware

Show steps

Read introductory articles or textbooks on networking
Review notes or study materials from previous networking courses

Build a Basic Network

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of network hardware by building your own basic network.

Browse courses on Network Hardware

Show steps

Gather necessary materials (e.g., cables, router, computers)
Follow manufacturer's instructions to connect devices
Test network connectivity using ping command

Data Communications and Networking

Show steps

Complement your course material with a respected reference on data communication and networking.

View Data Communications and Networking with TCPIP... on Amazon

Show steps

Read relevant chapters on networking concepts
Solve exercises and answer review questions

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

TCP vs UDP Comparison Exercises

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of TCP and UDP by completing comparison exercises.

Browse courses on Protocols

Show steps

Identify key differences between TCP and UDP
Fill in a table comparing their characteristics
Write scenarios where TCP or UDP would be more appropriate

Networking Events Volunteering

Show steps

Gain practical experience and learn from industry professionals by volunteering at networking events.

Show steps

Identify and register for upcoming networking events
Set up and assist with event logistics
Interact with attendees and learn about their networking insights

Wireshark Protocol Analysis Tutorial

Show steps

Deepen your comprehension of protocols by following a guided tutorial on using Wireshark.

Browse courses on Wireshark

Show steps

Install Wireshark on your computer
Follow a tutorial to capture and analyze packets
Identify different protocols and their characteristics

Network Configuration Documentation

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of network configuration by creating a comprehensive guide.

Browse courses on Network Configuration

Show steps

Gather information on network devices and configurations
Create a detailed document outlining network settings
Include diagrams and explanations for clarity

Career center

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

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, implements, and maintains computer networks. This involves planning, installing, and managing network hardware, software, and protocols. The course on Computer Networking can help Network Engineers by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Network Engineers to be able to design and manage effective and efficient networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of computer networks. This includes monitoring networks for performance and security issues, resolving network problems, and installing and configuring network hardware and software. The course on Computer Networking can help Network Administrators by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform these tasks effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Network Architect

A Network Architect designs, configures, and maintains computer networks. This involves planning, implementing, and administering network hardware, software, and protocols. The course on Computer Networking can help Network Architects by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, including protocols, network hardware, and network services. This knowledge is essential for Network Architects to be able to design and manage effective and efficient networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect

IT Manager

An IT Manager is responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of information technology (IT) systems and services within an organization. This includes overseeing the design, deployment, and maintenance of computer networks and systems, as well as managing IT staff. The course on Computer Networking can help IT Managers by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to manage IT systems and services effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of computer systems. This includes installing and configuring operating systems and software, monitoring systems for performance and security issues, and resolving system problems. The course on Computer Networking can help Systems Administrators by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform these tasks effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Security Analyst

A Security Analyst is responsible for protecting computer networks and systems from security threats. This involves monitoring networks and systems for security vulnerabilities, investigating security incidents, and implementing security measures. The course on Computer Networking can help Security Analysts by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform these tasks effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst

Cloud Architect

A Cloud Architect designs, develops, and manages cloud computing solutions. This involves planning, implementing, and managing cloud infrastructure and services, as well as working with other cloud architects to create cloud computing solutions that meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Cloud Architects by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Cloud Architects to be able to design and manage cloud computing solutions that can communicate effectively over networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

IT Consultant

An IT Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to use information technology (IT) to achieve their business goals. This includes helping organizations to design, implement, and manage IT systems and services. The course on Computer Networking can help IT Consultants by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective IT consulting services.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant

Web Developer

A Web Developer designs, develops, and maintains websites. This involves creating and coding the web pages that make up a website, as well as working with other developers to create websites that are user-friendly and meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Web Developers by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Web Developers to be able to develop websites that can communicate effectively over networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases. This involves creating and managing databases, as well as working with other database administrators to ensure that databases are reliable and meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Database Administrators by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Database Administrators to be able to manage databases that can communicate effectively over networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Software Developer

A Software Developer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. This involves writing and testing code, debugging software, and working with other developers to create software applications that meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Software Developers by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Software Developers to be able to develop software applications that can communicate effectively over networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Wireless Network Engineer

A Wireless Network Engineer designs, implements, and maintains wireless networks. This involves planning, implementing, and managing wireless network hardware and software, as well as working with other wireless network engineers to create wireless network solutions that meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Wireless Network Engineers by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Wireless Network Engineers to be able to design and manage wireless networks that can communicate effectively over无线网络.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wireless Network Engineer

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for protecting computer networks and systems from security threats. This involves monitoring networks and systems for security vulnerabilities, investigating security incidents, and implementing security measures. The course on Computer Networking can help Cybersecurity Analysts by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Cybersecurity Analysts to be able to protect networks and systems from security threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Network Security Engineer

A Network Security Engineer designs, implements, and maintains network security measures. This involves planning, implementing, and managing network security hardware and software, as well as working with other network security engineers to create network security solutions that meet the needs of users. The course on Computer Networking can help Network Security Engineers by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Network Security Engineers to be able to design and manage network security solutions that can effectively protect networks from security threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify trends and patterns. This involves using statistical and analytical techniques to extract insights from data, as well as working with other data analysts to create data-driven solutions. The course on Computer Networking can help Data Analysts by providing them with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of networking, which is essential for Data Analysts to be able to collect and analyze data from across networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Computer Networking.

TCP/IP Illustrated

Save

Classic reference on UDP/IP. It provides a detailed overview of the UDP/IP protocol suite. It good choice for students who want to learn more about UDP/IP.

TCP/IP Illustrated: The Protocols, Volume 1...

Kindle Edition

TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 3

Save

Classic reference on TCP/IP. It provides a detailed overview of the TCP/IP protocol suite. It good choice for students who want to learn more about TCP/IP.

Computer Networking

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses