The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Networking

Welcome to the Networking course of the IT Support Professional Certificate! In the first module of this course, we will cover the basics of computer networking. We will learn about the TCP/IP and OSI networking models and how the network layers work together. We'll also cover the basics of networking devices such as cables, hubs and switches, routers, servers and clients. We'll also explore the physical layer and data link layer of our networking model in more detail. By the end of this module, you will know how all the different layers of the network model fit together to create a network.

The Network Layer

In the second module of this course, we'll explore the network layer in more depth. We'll learn about the IP addressing scheme and how subnetting works. We'll explore how encapsulation works and how protocols such as ARP allow different layers of the network to communicate. We'll also cover the basics of routing, routing protocols, and how the Internet works. By the end of this module, you'll be able to describe the IP addressing scheme, understand how subnetting works, perform binary math to describe subnets, and understand how the Internet works.

The Transport and Application Layers

In the third module of this course, we'll explore the transport and application layers. By the end of this module, you'll be able to describe TCP ports and sockets, identify the different components of a TCP header, show the difference between connection-oriented and connectionless protocols, and explain how TCP is used to ensure data integrity.

Networking Services

In the fourth module of this course, we'll explore networking services. We'll learn about why we need DNS and how it works. We'll also show you why DHCP makes network administration a simpler task. By the end of this module, you'll be able to do describe how DNS and DHCP work, how NAT technologies help keep networks secure, and how VPNs and proxies help users connect and stay secured.

Connecting to the Internet

In the fifth module of this course, we'll explore the history of the Internet, how it evolved, and how it works today. We'll understand the different ways to connect to the Internet through cables, wireless and cellar connections, and even fiber connections. By the end of this module, you'll be able to define the components of WANs and outline the basics of wireless and cellular networking.

Troubleshooting and the Future of Networking

Congratulations, you've made it to the final module in the course! In the last module of this course, we'll explore the future of computer networking. We'll also cover the practical aspects of troubleshooting a network using popular operating systems. By the end of this module, you'll be able to detect and fix a lot of common network connectivity problems using tools available in Microsoft Windows, MacOS, and Linux operating systems.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores concepts surrounding cloud computing, including everything as a service and cloud storage

Teaches core concepts involved with computer networking that are standard in industry

Examines the foundational concepts of modern networking technologies and protocols

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in computer networking

Covers practical applications and network troubleshooting, which are core skills for IT professionals

Taught by Google Career Certificates, who are recognized for their work in computer science and machine learning

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 The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking with these activities:

Find a mentor

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Finding a mentor can provide you with guidance and support as you learn about computer networking.

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Identify your goals
Look for potential mentors
Reach out to potential mentors
Build a relationship with your mentor

Go over OSI model

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Reviewing the OSI model will help you better understand the structure and components of a computer network.

Browse courses on OSI Model

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Read through a summary of the OSI model
Draw a diagram of the OSI model
Label the different layers of the OSI model
Describe the functions of each layer of the OSI model

Do practice problems on binary math

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Binary math is a fundamental skill for network engineers. Doing practice problems will help you improve your proficiency.

Browse courses on Binary Math

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Find a website or app with practice problems on binary math
Do as many practice problems as you can

Six other activities

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Read Computer Networks: A Systems Approach

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking concepts and technologies.

View Private 5G: A Systems Approach on Amazon

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Read through the first few chapters of the book
Take notes on the key concepts
Do the practice exercises at the end of each chapter

Follow a tutorial on subnetting

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Subnetting is a fundamental networking concept that can be tricky to understand. Following a tutorial will help you break down the concept into smaller, more manageable steps.

Browse courses on Subnetting

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Find a tutorial on subnetting
Follow the steps in the tutorial
Do the practice exercises in the tutorial

Join a study group

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Study groups are a great way to learn from others and get help with difficult concepts.

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Find a study group or start your own
Meet with your study group regularly
Discuss the course material
Work on practice problems together

Create a network diagram

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Creating a network diagram will help you visualize the layout of a network and understand how the different components connect.

Browse courses on Network Design

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Choose a network design tool
Create a diagram of a simple network
Add more details to your diagram, such as IP addresses and subnet masks

Build a home network

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Building a home network is a great way to apply the networking concepts you've learned in this course.

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Plan your network
Purchase the necessary equipment
Install the equipment
Configure the network
Test the network

Participate in a networking competition

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Participating in a networking competition will challenge you to apply your networking skills and knowledge in a real-world setting.

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Find a networking competition
Register for the competition
Prepare for the competition
Compete in the competition

Career center

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

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining local area networks, wide area networks, and other communication systems. A comprehensive course in computer networking can provide essential knowledge for this role, including how protocols function and how to troubleshoot network issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems. An understanding of networking fundamentals can assist a Computer Systems Analyst in creating and maintaining efficient and secure systems, enabling them to excel in their role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining cloud computing systems. A course in computer networking can help build a foundation for understanding how cloud systems operate and communicate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

IT Support Specialist

IT Support Specialists provide technical assistance to users, troubleshoot computer issues, and maintain networks. An in-depth understanding of computer networking technologies and protocols gained from this course can enhance an individual's ability to diagnose and resolve network-related problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. A comprehensive course in computer networking can equip individuals with the necessary knowledge to identify and mitigate network security vulnerabilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Technical Support Engineer

Technical Support Engineers provide technical assistance to customers, troubleshoot hardware and software problems, and maintain networks. A course in computer networking can equip aspiring Technical Support Engineers with the understanding of networks and protocols that is crucial for diagnosing and resolving technical issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Engineer

Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, implement, and manage computer networks and systems. A thorough understanding of networking principles and protocols gained from the course can empower individuals to excel in this role, enabling them to design and maintain efficient, reliable, and secure networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Data Center Technician

Data Center Technicians maintain and operate data centers, ensuring the smooth functioning of servers, storage systems, and network infrastructure. A course in computer networking can help individuals gain a foundational understanding of networking concepts, enabling them to contribute effectively to data center operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Center Technician

Web Developer

Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to web development, it can provide a helpful foundation for understanding how websites and applications communicate over networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity, availability, and security. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to database administration, it can provide a helpful overview of networking concepts that can be applied to database systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators maintain and manage computer systems, including servers, operating systems, and networks. A foundational understanding of networking concepts gained from this course can empower individuals to manage and troubleshoot network-related issues within a system administration role.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to software engineering, it can provide a helpful foundation for understanding how software applications interact with networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts test and evaluate software applications to ensure they meet quality standards. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to quality assurance, it can provide a helpful overview of networking concepts that can be applied to testing network-related functionality within software applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze and improve business processes. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to business analysis, it can provide a helpful overview of networking concepts that can be applied to understanding how business processes interact with networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Project Manager

Project Managers plan and execute projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. While a course in computer networking may not be directly related to project management, it can provide a helpful overview of networking concepts that can be applied to managing network-related projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager