Networking Fundamentals & Network Access

Updated in May 2025. This course now features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. This course provides a solid foundation in networking, from understanding network components to configuring network access. Learners will gain the skills to navigate through both physical and virtual network landscapes, understanding key elements like topology, addressing, and security. By the end of the course, participants will be able to configure network devices, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and apply fundamental networking concepts. The course begins with a deep dive into network fundamentals, including the essential components, topologies, and types of networks. You'll learn about basic cabling, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and the TCP/UDP protocols that enable communication. The course will also cover IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, including subnetting, and practical configuration of these address types on network devices. As the course progresses, learners will explore the Cisco CLI and tools like the Cisco DNA Center, which offer hands-on practice with modern networking environments. Following the fundamentals, the course shifts to network access, focusing on configuring and verifying VLANs, interswitch connectivity, and Layer 2 discovery protocols. You will also cover crucial topics like Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and EtherChannel to manage data flow effectively between switches. The course includes in-depth content on wireless network components, security protocols, and how to configure wireless LAN management. With these topics, you'll gain an understanding of securing networks through port security and rogue device detection. This course is ideal for aspiring network administrators or IT professionals who want to develop their skills in network setup and security. It provides the groundwork needed for anyone aiming to work with Cisco devices and networks. While there are no formal prerequisites, some basic knowledge of computers and networks will be helpful for participants. The course is suitable for beginners, though it also contains advanced concepts for those looking to deepen their knowledge of network access.