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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