iLabX – The Internet Masterclass from edX

After more than 5 000 learners participated in the first two course runs in 2019 and 2020, we made this computer networking course even better! Do not miss your chance to become an Internet master!

The Internet is the world's biggest computer network. It connects everything, from people to machines, in all areas, from the art world to the stock exchange, everywhere on this planet and beyond. It has become one of our most important infrastructures. But how does this Internet that enables so many things in our daily lives actually work? After taking part in iLabX, you will not only understand the mechanisms behind modern computer networks, but you will create the Internet yourself on your own computer!

iLabX uses an award-winning methodology to teach you how the Internet works. Starting with the physical cables, you will learn, in six parts:

what exactly happens when you open a website in your browser or send a chat message to a friend,
how to set up a webserver yourself,
how the ongoing transition between the “old” Internet version and its current successor can be so seamless, and
key security concepts.

Each module first introduces the background of the relevant mechanisms and tools. After learning the concepts through videos, texts, and diverse interactive learning elements, you will build your own fully-functional Internet. Within our special vLab virtual Internet laboratory, you will use the same tools that also power the big Internet. Under our close guidance, each module brings you closer to having a fully-functional Internet running on your computer. As we use the real Internet mechanisms, we will even connect your creation to the real Internet at the end. Consequently, you can call yourself a true Internet master after completing this course!

When designing this course, we focused on making it exciting and continuously motivating for you. No matter what kind of learner you are, you will find the right learning experience! Our videos explain everything in detail. If you prefer reading instead, go ahead. You can read the texts instead of or in addition to the videos. We have many practical exercises and of course the virtual laboratory that allows you to configure the real Internet on your computer! Last but not least, we have an engaging story that continues through all parts: Help the iLabees scale their honey sales up, taking their business to the summit of the Internet mountains!

What you'll learn

A full understanding of how the Internet works in its current versions IPv6 and IPv4
Basic knowledge about Computer Networking Architectures, illustrated with the Internet layer model
Applied understanding of common Internet Protocols
Applied understanding of common Internet Applications including DNS, NAT, and firewalls
Applied understanding of Internet security challenges and mitigation mechanisms

Detailed Keywords for the six Parts of this Computer Networking Course
Part 1 - Signals and Cables: Signals, shared medium, physical medium, noise, addressing, topologies, unicast, broadcast, headers, payload, trailer, twisted pair, optical fiber, wireless, non-return to zero (NRZ), Manchester encoding, self-clocking.

Part 2 - Internet Protocol: Internet Protocol (IP), IPv6, IPv4, subnetting, fragmentation, Stateless Address Auto Configuration (SLAAC), Neighbour Discovery Protocol (NDP), Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP), static routing, forwarding, multicast.

Part 3 - Routing: Dynamic routing, longest prefix matching, Autonomous System (AS), Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Routing Information Protocol (RIP), Dijkstra, Bellmann-Ford, paths, loops.

Part 4 - Transmission Control Protocol and User Datagram Protocol: Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), reliable communication, stateful communication, 3-way handshake, aknowledgements (ACK), piggyback, retransmission, congestion control, flow control.

Part 5 - Domain Name System and Webservers: Domain Name System (DNS), resolver, nameserver, zones, sub-domains, iterative vs. recursive name resolution, A and AAAA records, Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Transport Layer Security (TLS), HTTPS, virtual hosts.

Part 6 - DNS64/ NAT64 and Firewalls: Network Address Translation (NAT), DNS64, NAT64, state, address rewriting, IP 5-tuple, chains, filter, blacklisting, whitelisting, rules, firewall, tables.

What's inside

Learning objectives

A full understanding of how the internet works in its current versions ipv6 and ipv4
Basic knowledge about computer networking architectures, illustrated with the internet layer model
Applied understanding of common internet protocols

Applied understanding of common internet applications including dns, nat, and firewalls
Applied understanding of internet security challenges and mitigation mechanisms

A full understanding of how the internet works in its current versions ipv6 and ipv4
Basic knowledge about computer networking architectures, illustrated with the internet layer model
Applied understanding of common internet protocols
Applied understanding of common internet applications including dns, nat, and firewalls
Applied understanding of internet security challenges and mitigation mechanisms

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Demonstrates Internet functionality in a way that is helpful to those in industry, academia, and personal internet usage

Helps learners build a strong understanding of the mechanics of the Internet

Uses a combination of audio, visual, and kinesthetic learning elements to engage different types of learners

Taught by experienced individuals who are recognized authorities in the field of computer networking

Offers learners an opportunity to apply their knowledge by configuring and running their own Internet

Covers a wide range of topics, providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of computer networking principles and technologies

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 iLabX – The Internet Masterclass with these activities:

Creating a Basic Website

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HTML and CSS are the core building blocks of the Web. Creating a basic website provides a hands-on experience of front-end development and Internet basics.

Browse courses on Web Development

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Follow an online tutorial on creating a basic website.
Create a simple website with basic elements like text, images, and links.

Peer Study Group

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Study groups are a great way to test your understanding, learn from others, and improve your problem-solving skills.

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Form a study group with other learners taking the same course.
Meet regularly to discuss the course material, work on assignments together, and quiz each other.

Analyzing Network Traffic

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Wireshark is a free and open-source network protocol analyzer. This activity reinforces the study of Internet Protocol by allowing the student to examine the structure of network packets and understand how they are exchanged.

Browse courses on Network Monitoring

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Install Wireshark on your computer.
Capture network traffic using Wireshark.
Use Wireshark to analyze the captured network traffic.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Security Best Practices for Web Applications

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This activity introduces the common security threats to web applications and helps you understand the measures to prevent such threats.

Browse courses on Web Security

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Follow an online tutorial on securing web applications.
Implement the security measures described in the tutorial on a web application of your choice.

Configuring a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

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VPN is a commonly used technology for securing remote connections. This activity reinforces the knowledge gained during the study of how the internet works.

Browse courses on VPN

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Follow a tutorial to set up a VPN on your computer.
Configure the VPN settings to connect to a remote server.
Test the VPN connection by browsing the internet and accessing resources on the remote network.

Computer Networks: A Systems Approach

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This book aims to provide a more analytical, top-down approach to the study of computer networks, providing more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of each topic.

View Private 5G: A Systems Approach on Amazon

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Read through chapters 1-3 to understand the basic building blocks of computer networks.
Read through chapters 4-6 to understand the Internet protocol suite, routing, and transport protocols.
Read through chapters 7-10 to understand the application layer.

TCP/IP Illustrated: The Protocols Vol 1

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TCP/IP is the most common and relevant of Internet Protocol Suite that can help you understand the Internet thoroughly.

View TCP/IP Illustrated: The Protocols, Volume 1... on Amazon

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Read through chapters 1-5 to understand connection-oriented and connectionless protocols (TCP vs UDP).
Read through chapters 10-15 to understand Transmission Control Protocol (TCP).

Technical Q&A Session

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Technical Q&A sessions provide an excellent opportunity to clarify doubts, get expert advice, and engage with peers on technical challenges.

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Attend a technical Q&A session hosted by the course instructor or a subject matter expert.
Ask questions and participate in discussions to enhance your understanding.

Career center

Learners who complete iLabX – The Internet Masterclass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Network Architect

Computer Network Architects design, develop, and maintain computer networks, which involve the Internet and other data communication systems. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a comprehensive understanding of how the Internet works, covering topics such as computer networking architectures, Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, domain name systems, and internet security. It also offers practical experience in building a fully-functional Internet, helping one gain an in-depth understanding of the field. This course can be particularly useful for those aspiring to become Computer Network Architects.

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Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers are responsible for protecting computer networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course, iLabX – Internet Masterclass, provides a solid understanding of Internet security challenges and mitigation mechanisms. It covers topics like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, equipping one with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and maintain secure computer networks. This course is highly recommended for individuals seeking a career as a Network Security Engineer.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators manage, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks. This course, iLabX – Internet Masterclass, provides a comprehensive foundation in computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, and domain name systems. It also offers hands-on experience in configuring and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the practical skills required for this role. This course is highly recommended for individuals aspiring to become Network Administrators.

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Systems Engineer

Systems Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer systems, including networks, servers, and storage devices. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a strong foundation in computer networking, covering topics such as Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, equipping one with the skills necessary to succeed in this role. This course is highly recommended for individuals aspiring to become Systems Engineers.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a strong foundation in computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, and domain name systems. It also offers hands-on experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the practical skills required to develop software applications that interact with networks and the Internet. This course is recommended for individuals aspiring to become Software Engineers.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists conduct research on the theory and practice of computation. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a deep understanding of computer networking, covering topics such as Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, equipping one with the skills necessary to conduct research in the field of computer networking. This course is highly recommended for individuals aspiring to become Computer Scientists specializing in networking.

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Information Technology Manager

Information Technology Managers plan, coordinate, and direct the implementation and operation of computer systems and networks. This course, iLabX – Internet Masterclass, provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, transmission control protocols, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to manage and maintain computer networks effectively. This course is recommended for individuals aspiring to become Information Technology Managers.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use scientific methods to extract knowledge and insights from data. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a strong foundation in computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, equipping one with the skills necessary to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to networks and the Internet.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases, which are used to store and organize data. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a good understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to manage and maintain databases that are accessible over networks and the Internet. This course may be useful for individuals aspiring to become Database Administrators.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a good understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols, routing, and domain name systems. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to develop websites and web applications that interact with networks and the Internet. This course may be useful for individuals aspiring to become Web Developers.

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UX Designer

UX Designers design user interfaces for websites, apps, and other digital products. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a basic understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols and routing. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to understand how networks and the Internet impact user experience. This course may be useful for individuals aspiring to become UX Designers.

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Product Manager

Product Managers plan, develop, and market products. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a basic understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols and routing. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to understand how networks and the Internet impact product development and marketing.

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Sales Engineer

Sales Engineers sell technical products and services to businesses. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a basic understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols and routing. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to understand how networks and the Internet impact the products and services they sell.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for technical products and services. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a basic understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols and routing. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to understand how networks and the Internet impact the documentation they create.

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Quality Assurance Tester

Quality Assurance Testers test software and hardware products to ensure they meet quality standards. This iLabX – Internet Masterclass provides a basic understanding of computer networking concepts, including Internet protocols and routing. It also offers practical experience in building and managing a fully-functional Internet, giving one the skills necessary to understand how networks and the Internet impact the products they test.

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