Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490) from Coursera

By the end of this course, you’ll master essential networking skills, including identifying Cisco hardware, configuring and managing IOS devices, and troubleshooting network issues using industry-standard tools. You’ll also learn to maintain and upgrade Cisco routers and switches, empowering you to excel as a field technician.

The course is structured into four core modules. First, you’ll explore general networking concepts, including hardware identification, addressing protocols, and network utilities. Then, you’ll dive into Cisco-specific equipment, learning to identify devices, components, ports, and their memory functions, along with practical guidance on device replacement. The third module focuses on mastering Cisco IOS, from basic commands to startup configuration and IOS-XE modes.

The final module equips you with essential servicing skills, such as troubleshooting with Windows tools, performing password recovery, upgrading Cisco IOS, and executing factory resets. Throughout, you’ll build hands-on expertise to confidently handle real-world networking challenges.

This course is perfect for beginner and intermediate-level IT professionals aiming to enhance their skills with Cisco devices. A basic understanding of networking concepts is recommended but not required.

What's inside

Syllabus

General Networking

In this module, we will introduce the foundational concepts of networking. You will gain knowledge of networking hardware, models, and key technologies, such as Layer 1 and Layer 2 standards. Additionally, you will explore network addressing systems and learn to use essential utilities to troubleshoot and maintain networks efficiently.

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Provides hands-on expertise to confidently handle real-world networking challenges, which is highly valuable for those looking to advance their careers in IT support and network administration

Covers essential servicing tasks such as upgrading Cisco IOS software and performing factory resets on Cisco IOS switches, which are crucial for maintaining network stability and performance

Explores Cisco IOS-XE modes, preparing learners for advanced Cisco device management, which is essential for those working with modern Cisco network infrastructure

Focuses on Cisco-specific equipment, including identifying devices, components, and ports, which is essential knowledge for technicians working with Cisco hardware in the field

Teaches troubleshooting with Windows tools, which may require learners to have access to a Windows-based computer, potentially posing a barrier for those using other operating systems

Reviews summary

Cisco cct r&s 100-490 exam prep

According to learners, this course is a largely positive introduction for those aiming for the Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490) exam. Students say it provides a solid foundation in networking concepts and Cisco equipment, making it good for beginners in the IT field. Reviewers frequently praise the focus on practical skills and the hands-on activities, which they found helpful for understanding real-world field technician tasks. While the course covers the core exam topics effectively, some learners note that they needed to seek additional practice outside the course to feel fully prepared for the certification, particularly suggesting more time with labs and simulators like Packet Tracer. Overall, it's viewed as a valuable resource for starting out with Cisco devices and the CCT path.

Pace is suitable for newcomers to Cisco.

"Perfect course if you are just starting with Cisco hardware."

"Pace was easy to follow, great for beginners."

"Didn't feel overwhelmed, good intro level course."

Teaches useful skills for a field technician role.

"The practical examples were spot on for actual field work."

"I learned valuable hands-on skills for servicing devices."

"Enabled me to understand physical installation and troubleshooting."

Content aligns well with the 100-490 test.

"This course helped me prepare for the CCT 100-490 exam."

"Felt like it covered the key topics needed for the certification."

"It provided the necessary foundation aligned with the exam blueprint."

Some topics could be more in-depth.

"Felt some sections were a bit brief."

"Wish certain commands or concepts were explored further."

"Provides an overview, but might not be sufficient on its own for complex issues."

Requires supplemental lab practice.

"You will definitely need to supplement with Packet Tracer labs."

"Could use more hands-on practice scenarios within the course."

"Good theory but needs more reinforcement through labs."

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 Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490) with these activities:

Review Basic Networking Concepts

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Reinforce your understanding of fundamental networking concepts like the OSI model, IP addressing, and subnetting to better grasp the course's initial module on general networking.

Browse courses on OSI Model

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Review your notes from previous networking courses.
Complete online quizzes on networking fundamentals.
Watch introductory videos on the OSI and TCP/IP models.

Read 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1'

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Supplement your learning with a comprehensive guide to Cisco networking, providing deeper insights into the topics covered in the course.

View CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1 on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to Cisco IOS and hardware.
Take notes on key concepts and configurations.
Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.

Practice Cisco IOS Commands

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Reinforce your understanding of Cisco IOS commands through repetitive practice, improving your proficiency in configuring and managing Cisco devices.

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Set up a virtual lab environment using GNS3 or Cisco Packet Tracer.
Practice basic IOS commands like 'show', 'configure terminal', and 'ping'.
Configure VLANs, routing protocols, and access lists in the virtual lab.

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Follow Cisco IOS Upgrade Tutorial

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Refine your skills in upgrading Cisco IOS by following a step-by-step tutorial, enhancing your ability to maintain and update Cisco devices.

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Find a reputable online tutorial on upgrading Cisco IOS.
Follow the tutorial, paying close attention to each step.
Document any challenges encountered and how you resolved them.

Create a Troubleshooting Guide

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Solidify your troubleshooting skills by creating a guide that outlines common network issues and their solutions, drawing from the course's servicing module.

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Identify common network problems discussed in the course.
Research solutions using Windows commands and Cisco IOS commands.
Document the problems, solutions, and troubleshooting steps in a clear and concise guide.

Read 'Troubleshooting TCP/IP'

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Expand your knowledge of TCP/IP troubleshooting to enhance your ability to diagnose and resolve network issues effectively.

View Troubleshooting Tcp/Ip: Analyzing the Protocols... on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to TCP/IP troubleshooting tools and techniques.
Practice using the troubleshooting tools discussed in the book.
Apply the troubleshooting techniques to real-world network scenarios.

Build a Home Lab Network

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Apply your knowledge by building a home lab network using Cisco devices, solidifying your understanding of network configuration and troubleshooting.

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Acquire used Cisco routers and switches.
Configure the devices using Cisco IOS commands.
Troubleshoot network connectivity issues.
Document the network configuration and troubleshooting steps.

Career center

Learners who complete Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Network Technician

As a Network Technician, you'll be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting network infrastructure, and this course directly prepares you for those tasks. This role involves identifying and resolving network issues, configuring network devices, and ensuring optimal network performance. The course's modules on Cisco equipment and its IOS environment directly translate to the day-to-day tasks of a Network Technician. You'll learn how to identify Cisco devices and components, use Cisco IOS commands, and perform essential servicing tasks, such as password recovery and IOS upgrades. The course's hands-on approach allows you to build the practical skills needed to excel as a Network Technician.

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Field Service Technician

A Field Service Technician travels to customer locations to install, maintain, and repair networking equipment, needing a deep understanding of networking concepts and hands-on experience with Cisco devices. The course helps you understand general networking concepts, identify Cisco hardware, and troubleshoot network issues. The ability to identify, remove, and replace Cisco devices, covered in the Cisco Equipment and Hardware module, is essential for this role. Furthermore, the course provides instruction on Cisco IOS, including basic commands, startup configuration, and IOS-XE modes, allowing you to confidently handle real world challenges that a Field Service Technician will encounter.

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Help Desk Technician

Help Desk Technicians provide first-line technical support to end-users, often dealing with network connectivity issues and basic troubleshooting. This course empowers you to confidently diagnose and resolve common networking problems using industry standard tools. The course module on general networking gives you a strong foundation in Layer 1 and Layer 2 standards, and in network addressing systems. The servicing Cisco devices module teaches you how to use windows commands for network troubleshooting. You will be well prepared for the network related tasks that a Help Desk Technician encounters daily.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of computer networks, including configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting. This course helps build a foundation for understanding Cisco devices and their configuration which is relevant to the responsibilities of a Network Administrator. You will learn to manage device configurations through backups and restores. The knowledge and skills gained in the course are beneficial for Network Administrators who handle Cisco equipment and need to maintain network stability and performance, helping to resolve issues that arise.

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IT Support Specialist

An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to users, often dealing with network connectivity and hardware issues. This course enables you to diagnose and resolve common networking problems, configure network devices, and perform routine maintenance tasks. The hands-on expertise gained in the course's servicing Cisco devices module, covering Windows commands for network troubleshooting and Cisco IOS upgrades, is directly applicable to the daily tasks of an IT Support Specialist. The course gives you the practical skills needed to troubleshoot network issues and maintain network devices.

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Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators are responsible for the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems and networks. This course provides a solid base of knowledge for managing Cisco network devices, including configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance. The modules on Cisco IOS and servicing Cisco devices are particularly helpful, as they cover essential tasks such as managing device configurations, upgrading IOS software, and recovering passwords. The course may be useful to Systems Administrators who manage Cisco-based network infrastructure by providing practical skills to maintain system reliability.

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Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, implement, and manage computer networks, requiring a deep understanding of networking concepts and hands-on experience with network devices. This course on Cisco routing and switching can help build a foundation by teaching you essential skills, including identifying Cisco hardware, configuring IOS devices, and troubleshooting network problems. The modules on Cisco equipment and Cisco IOS may be useful, providing practical knowledge for managing and maintaining network infrastructure. Network Engineers with a base in Cisco devices will benefit from the hands on knowledge this course provides.

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Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analysts monitor and protect computer networks and systems from security threats. While this role requires a deep understanding of security protocols and tools, understanding network infrastructure is also crucial. This course may be useful by providing a foundational knowledge of Cisco devices and network configurations. The module on general networking is an important prerequisite to understanding cybersecurity. This course may be helpful for a Cybersecurity Analyst, providing them with a working knowledge of network devices and protocols.

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Data Center Technician

Data Center Technicians maintain the physical infrastructure within data centers, including network devices, servers, and cabling. This course may be useful by offering practical skills in identifying Cisco hardware, configuring IOS devices, and troubleshooting network issues - all essential for maintaining a data center environment. The modules on Cisco equipment and servicing Cisco devices are particularly relevant. Data Center Technicians may find that this course helps them build a foundation of knowledge working with Cisco devices and hardware.

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IT Manager

IT Managers oversee the IT department and ensure that the organization's technology infrastructure is running smoothly. While this role is management focused, a strong understanding of networking is beneficial. This course may be useful by providing foundational knowledge of Cisco networking devices, their configuration and troubleshooting. The module on Cisco IOS, in particular, will help IT Managers understand the complexities of maintaining Cisco equipment. IT managers will find that this course helps them build a foundation for network systems management.

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Cloud Support Engineer

Cloud Support Engineers assist customers with cloud-based services, often dealing with networking and infrastructure issues in the cloud. While this course focuses on physical Cisco devices, the underlying networking concepts and troubleshooting skills are transferable to cloud environments. The module on general networking principles and the practical troubleshooting skills learned in the servicing Cisco devices module may be useful. Cloud Support Engineers may find that this course helps them build a strong foundation in networking principles.

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Technical Trainer

Technical Trainers deliver training programs on various IT topics, including networking. This course may be useful by equipping trainers with enhanced knowledge of Cisco devices, IOS configuration, and network troubleshooting. The hands-on focus of the course, particularly in the Cisco equipment and Cisco IOS modules, can help trainers deliver effective and engaging training sessions. In addition to being able to troubleshoot more efficiently, technical trainers may use the course materials to enhance their teaching.

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Technology Sales

Technology Sales representatives sell IT products and services to businesses. A foundational understanding of networking greatly assists sales representatives in being able to explain the technical aspects of their offerings, and to build rapport and trust with customers. This course can provide you with familiarity of Cisco devices, IOS configuration, and network troubleshooting. The sales representatives can use this to deepen their own understanding, and to speak with technical experts in their own firm.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze an organization's business needs and help implement technology solutions. While this role is primarily focused on business processes, understanding the underlying IT infrastructure can be beneficial. The course may be useful by providing a general overview of networking concepts, Cisco devices, and basic troubleshooting techniques. The course module on general networking is most useful for Business Analysts. Business Analysts may find that this course helps them communicate more effectively with IT professionals.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects, often involving IT infrastructure upgrades or deployments. While this role does not require deep technical expertise, a general understanding of networking concepts can be helpful. This course may be useful by providing an overview of Cisco devices, IOS configuration, and basic troubleshooting. The project manager may wish to obtain a better grasp on the kind of work technicians do. As such, project managers may find the course useful.

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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 Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490).

CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1

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Provides a comprehensive overview of networking concepts and Cisco technologies, aligning well with the course's focus. It serves as an excellent reference for understanding Cisco hardware, IOS, and troubleshooting techniques. While more in-depth than the course, it offers valuable background and expands on key topics. It is commonly used as a textbook for CCNA certification, making it a useful resource for aspiring network technicians.

CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1

Kindle Edition

Troubleshooting TCP/IP

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Provides a deep dive into TCP/IP troubleshooting techniques, complementing the course's servicing module. It offers practical guidance on diagnosing and resolving network issues using various tools and commands. While not Cisco-specific, it provides valuable background knowledge for understanding network protocols and troubleshooting methodologies. This book is more valuable as additional reading to deepen understanding of troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Tcp/Ip: Analyzing the Protocols of...

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Cisco CCT Routing and Switching (100-490)

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What's inside

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Reviews summary

Cisco cct r&s 100-490 exam prep

Activities

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