The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking Course Course

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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