What will you learn in The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking Course
Understand the OSI and TCP/IP networking models and how data flows across layers.
Learn about networking devices such as hubs, switches, routers, servers, and clients.
Master IP addressing, subnetting, routing, ARP, and basic Internet structure.
Discover transport (TCP/UDP), application layer protocols, and connection reliability.
Program Overview
Section 1: Introduction to Networking
⏳ 3 hours
Topics: OSI & TCP/IP models, cables, hubs, switches, routers, servers/clients, physical & data-link layers.
Hands-on: Cabling tools plugin, assignments on TCP/IP, network devices, physical/data link layers, and combined layer challenges.
Section 2: The Network Layer
⏳ 2 hours
Topics: IP addressing, subnetting, ARP, routing concepts, interior & exterior gateway protocols, non-routable address space.
Hands-on: Binary math subnet assignments, routing table exercises, layer challenge module.
Section 3: The Transport and Application Layers
⏳ 4 hours
Topics: TCP/UDP, TCP header structure, three-way handshake, sockets, connection-oriented vs. connectionless protocols, firewalls, application layer basics.
Hands-on: Assignments covering transport and application layers, study guide, five-layer model challenge, TCP/UDP packets plugin.
Section 4: Networking Services
⏳ 3 hours
Topics: DNS name resolution, DHCP, NAT, VPNs, and proxy services.
Hands-on: Simulations and assignments on DNS resolution, DHCP setup, NAT, VPNs/proxies, and a services challenge.
Section 5: Connecting to the Internet
⏳ 3 hours
Topics: WANs, broadband (DSL, cable, fiber), T‑Carrier, wireless technologies, wireless channels & security, cellular networking.
Hands-on: Assignments and challenges on broadband, WANs, wireless networking, and Internet limitations.
Section 6: Troubleshooting and the Future of Networking
⏳ 2 hours
Topics: Ping, traceroute, port connectivity, DNS tools, cloud intro, IPv6 fundamentals, network troubleshooting across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Hands-on: Assignments on connectivity verification, DNS digging, cloud networking, and a final troubleshooting challenge.
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Job Outlook
Provides foundational IT networking skills applicable to roles like IT support technician, network administrator, and help desk engineer.
Complements further Google IT Professional Certificate courses for entry-level IT career readiness.
Helps prepare foundational knowledge for certifications like CompTIA Network+ and vendor-specific networking tracks.
Specification: The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking
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FAQs
- No prior experience required; beginner-friendly.
- Covers OSI and TCP/IP models, IP addressing, subnetting, and routing.
- Hands-on labs for physical/data-link, transport, and application layers.
- Prepares learners for IT support, network admin, and help desk roles.
- Builds a foundation for further certifications like CompTIA Network+.
- Hands-on labs on cabling, IP subnetting, TCP/UDP packets, and routing.
- Simulations for DNS, DHCP, NAT, VPNs, and proxies.
- Exercises on broadband, wireless networking, and WAN technologies.
- Troubleshooting labs using ping, traceroute, and connectivity tests.
- Reinforces theoretical concepts with practical, real-world applications.
- Prepares for IT support technician, network admin, and help desk roles.
- Complements further Google IT Professional Certificate courses.
- Lays groundwork for certifications like CompTIA Network+ or vendor-specific networking.
- Builds practical troubleshooting and networking skills.
- Supports entry-level IT career readiness in multiple industries.
- No dedicated capstone included.
- 31+ labs and plugin assignments simulate real-world scenarios.
- Covers layered networking, protocols, services, and troubleshooting.
- Hands-on exercises provide portfolio-ready practice examples.
- Encourages learners to practice independently for deeper understanding.
- Total course duration is ~17 hours across six modules.
- Modules range from 2–4 hours each, including labs and lectures.
- Flexible pacing allows study alongside work or other commitments.
- Beginners may require extra time for hands-on troubleshooting exercises.
- Most learners complete it in 1–3 weeks with focused effort.
