Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security from Coursera

This is the third course in the Google Cybersecurity Certificate. These courses will equip you with the skills you need to apply for an entry-level cybersecurity job. You’ll build on your understanding of the topics that were introduced in the second Google Cybersecurity Certificate course.

In this course, you will explore how networks connect multiple devices and allow them to communicate. You'll start with the fundamentals of modern networking operations and protocols. For example, you'll learn about the Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) model and how network hardware, like routers and modems, allow your computer to send and receive information on the internet. Then, you'll learn about network security. Organizations often store and send valuable information on their networks, so networks are common targets of cyber attacks. By the end of this course, you'll be able to recognize network-level vulnerabilities, and explain how to secure a network using firewalls, system hardening, and virtual private networks.

Google employees who currently work in cybersecurity will guide you through videos, provide hands-on activities and examples that simulate common cybersecurity tasks, and help you build your skills to prepare for jobs.

Learners who complete this certificate will be equipped to apply for entry-level cybersecurity roles. No previous experience is necessary.

By the end of this course, you will:

- Describe the structure of different computer networks.

- Illustrate how data is sent and received over a network.

- Recognize common network protocols.

- Identify common network security measures and protocols.

- Explain how to secure a network against intrusion tactics.

- Compare and contrast local networks to cloud computing.

- Explain the different types of system hardening techniques.

What's inside

Syllabus

Network architecture

You'll be introduced to network security and explain how it relates to ongoing security threats and vulnerabilities. You will learn about network architecture and mechanisms to secure a network.

Network operations

You will explore network protocols and how network communication can introduce vulnerabilities. In addition, you'll learn about common security measures, like firewalls, that help network operations remain safe and reliable.

Secure against network intrusions

You will understand types of network attacks and techniques used to secure compromised network systems and devices. You'll explore the many ways that malicious actors exploit vulnerabilities in network infrastructure and how cybersecurity professionals identify and close potential loopholes.

Security hardening

You will become familiar with network hardening practices that strengthen network systems. You'll learn how security hardening helps defend against malicious actors and intrusion methods. You'll also learn how to use security hardening to address the unique security challenges posed by cloud infrastructures.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Builds a foundational understanding of network architecture, protocols, and the role of networks in cybersecurity

Explores common network attacks, their impacts, and techniques to secure networks against them

Introduces different security measures, such as firewalls and system hardening, and their importance in safeguarding networks

Emphasizes the role of network security in protecting valuable information and preventing cyber attacks

Suitable for individuals with no prior cybersecurity experience, making it accessible to beginners

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 Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security with these activities:

Review networking fundamentals

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Refresh your understanding of basic networking concepts, such as network topologies, protocols, and network security

Browse courses on Networking Fundamentals

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Review notes or online resources on network fundamentals
Take practice quizzes or complete hands-on exercises on networking topics

Follow tutorials on network security

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Explore different aspects of network security, such as common threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation techniques

Browse courses on network security

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Identify reputable sources for network security tutorials
Select tutorials that cover specific areas of interest, such as firewalls or intrusion detection systems
Follow the tutorials step-by-step and take notes

Attend a workshop on network security

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Attend a workshop led by experienced network security professionals to gain insights and practical skills

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Identify and register for a relevant network security workshop
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and hands-on exercises
Take notes and follow up with the workshop organizers or speakers for additional resources

Five other activities

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Volunteer with a cybersecurity organization

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the cybersecurity community by volunteering with an organization focused on network security

Browse courses on Community Involvement

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Identify and contact cybersecurity organizations in your area
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and express your interest and skills
Commit to a specific volunteer role and fulfill your responsibilities

Practice network troubleshooting

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Gain hands-on experience in identifying and resolving common network issues

Browse courses on Network Troubleshooting

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Set up a virtual network environment for practice
Introduce common network problems, such as connectivity issues or security breaches
Troubleshoot the problems using network monitoring tools and diagnostic techniques

Write a blog post on network security best practices

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Share your knowledge and understanding of network security by writing a blog post that outlines best practices for securing networks

Browse courses on Network Security Best Practices

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Research and gather information on network security best practices
Organize your findings and outline the key points for your blog post
Write the blog post in a clear and informative style

Develop a security plan for a small network

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Apply your knowledge of network security to design a comprehensive security plan for a small network

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Identify the assets and critical systems within the network
Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities
Develop and document a security plan that outlines measures to mitigate the identified risks

Set up a home network with enhanced security features

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Apply your skills to enhance the security of your home network by implementing additional security measures

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Assess your current home network setup and identify areas for improvement
Research and select appropriate security features, such as a firewall, intrusion detection system, or VPN
Configure and implement the security measures on your home network

Career center

Learners who complete Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Network Security Analyst

A Network Security Analyst is responsible for identifying and mitigating security risks within computer networks. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network architecture, protocols, and security measures. Learners will also gain knowledge of common network attacks and techniques used to secure compromised systems and devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Analyst

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's information assets from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network security, threats, and vulnerabilities. Learners will also gain knowledge of security measures and protocols, as well as techniques for detecting and responding to cyber attacks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for protecting computer networks and systems from cyber attacks. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network security, threats, and vulnerabilities. Learners will also gain knowledge of security measures and protocols, as well as techniques for detecting and responding to cyber attacks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network architecture, protocols, and security measures. Learners will also gain practical experience with network management tools and troubleshooting techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

IT Security Engineer

An IT Security Engineer is responsible for securing an organization's IT infrastructure. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network security, threats, and vulnerabilities. Learners will also gain knowledge of security measures and protocols, as well as techniques for detecting and responding to cyber attacks.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Security Engineer

Cloud Security Engineer

A Cloud Security Engineer is responsible for securing cloud computing environments. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network security, threats, and vulnerabilities in cloud environments. Learners will also gain knowledge of security measures and protocols specific to cloud computing, as well as techniques for detecting and responding to cyber attacks in the cloud.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Engineer

Security Architect

A Security Architect is responsible for designing and implementing security solutions for an organization. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network security, threats, and vulnerabilities. Learners will also gain knowledge of security measures and protocols, as well as techniques for detecting and responding to cyber attacks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect

Web Developer

A Web Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. This course may be useful for Web Developers who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help organizations make better decisions. This course may be useful for Data Scientists who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network architecture, protocols, and security measures. Learners will also gain practical experience with network design and implementation tools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an overview of network architecture, protocols, and security measures. Learners will also gain practical experience with systems design and implementation tools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Security Consultant

A Security Consultant is responsible for providing security advice and guidance to organizations. This course may be useful for Security Consultants who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

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Information Systems Manager

An Information Systems Manager is responsible for managing an organization's information systems. This course may be useful for Information Systems Managers who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Systems Manager

IT Manager

An IT Manager is responsible for managing an organization's IT infrastructure. This course may be useful for IT Managers who want to gain a better understanding of network security.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager