The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course provides a comprehensive, beginner-friendly introduction to computer networking, covering essential concepts from physical cabling to Internet connectivity and troubleshooting. Through a mix of theory and hands-on labs, you’ll explore the OSI and TCP/IP models, IP addressing, routing, transport protocols, networking services, and real-world connectivity technologies. With approximately 17 hours of content and over 30 interactive labs, this course is ideal for aspiring IT professionals preparing for certifications like CompTIA Network+ or pursuing roles in IT support and network administration.
Module 1: Introduction to Networking
Estimated time: 3 hours
- OSI and TCP/IP networking models
- Physical layer: cables, hubs, and cabling tools
- Data-link layer: switches, MAC addresses, and frame handling
- Network devices: routers, servers, and clients
- Hands-on: Cabling tools plugin and layer-specific challenges
Module 2: The Network Layer
Estimated time: 2 hours
- IP addressing and binary math fundamentals
- Subnetting and subnet mask application
- ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)
- Routing concepts and routing tables
- Interior and exterior gateway protocols, non-routable address space
Module 3: The Transport and Application Layers
Estimated time: 4 hours
- TCP and UDP protocols
- TCP header structure and three-way handshake
- Sockets and connection-oriented vs. connectionless communication
- Application layer protocols and services
- Firewalls and transport-layer security basics
Module 4: Networking Services
Estimated time: 3 hours
- DNS name resolution and query process
- DHCP: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
- NAT (Network Address Translation)
- VPN and proxy services
- Hands-on simulations and service configuration challenges
Module 5: Connecting to the Internet
Estimated time: 3 hours
- WAN technologies and T-Carrier systems
- Broadband access: DSL, cable, and fiber
- Wireless networking: channels, standards, and security
- Cellular networking and mobile data
- Limitations and performance of Internet connections
Module 6: Troubleshooting and the Future of Networking
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Using ping and traceroute for connectivity testing
- Port connectivity and DNS diagnostic tools
- Network troubleshooting across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Introduction to cloud networking and IPv6 fundamentals
- Final troubleshooting challenge and review
Prerequisites
- No prior networking knowledge required
- Basic computer literacy
- Access to a web browser for labs and simulations
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Explain how data flows through the OSI and TCP/IP models
- Configure and troubleshoot basic IP addressing and subnetting
- Set up and analyze common networking services like DNS, DHCP, and NAT
- Diagnose network connectivity issues using standard tools
- Prepare for entry-level IT certifications such as CompTIA Network+