a

The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking

An engaging, lab-rich introduction to computer networking—perfect for IT beginners and those building toward certification.

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

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.

Get certificate

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.

9.7Expert Score
Highly Recommendedx
This course offers an accessible, interactive overview of networking essentials—ideal for beginners or those pursuing IT certification.
Value
9
Price
9.2
Skills
9.4
Information
9.5
PROS
  • Beginner-friendly with no prior experience needed
  • Extensive hands-on assignments (~31 labs/plugins) reinforce theory
  • Covers all OSI layers plus real-world services and troubleshooting
CONS
  • Doesn’t cover advanced topics like enterprise networking, SDN, or cloud-native networking deeply
  • No full-scale project or capstone included

Specification: The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking
The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking
Course | Career Focused Learning Platform
Logo