This 7-week Computer Networking course takes students from the basics of what a network is all the way to designing and securing their own. It starts with foundational concepts like network types and devices, then builds up through the OSI and TCP/IP models, IP addressing, subnetting, routing, and switching. Students then dive into key protocols like DNS, HTTP, and SSH, followed by a dedicated week on network security covering firewalls, VPNs, and common attacks. The course wraps up with wireless networking, an intro to cloud infrastructure, and a final project where students design and present a complete network for a mock company. Throughout all 7 weeks, hands-on tools like Cisco Packet Tracer and Wireshark keep the learning practical and career-ready.

What Students Will Learn

Networking Fundamentals

• Introduction to computer networks and their importance
• Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, etc.)
• Networking devices such as routers, switches, and hubs
• Basic network architecture concepts

Network Models & Protocols

• Understanding OSI and TCP/IP models
• Data transmission processes
• Key protocols including HTTP, DNS, and SSH
• Communication flow in networks

IP Addressing & Subnetting

• Basics of IP addressing concepts
• IPv4 addressing structure
• Subnetting techniques and calculations
• Network segmentation and optimization

Routing & Switching Concepts

• Fundamentals of routing processes
• Switching techniques and VLAN basics
• Network traffic management

Network Security Fundamentals

• Introduction to cybersecurity in networking
• Firewalls and VPN concepts
• Common network attacks and prevention basics
• Basic cryptography awareness

Wireless & Cloud Networking

• Wireless network fundamentals
• Wi-Fi technologies and setup concepts
• Introduction to cloud networking infrastructure

Practical Tools & Projects

• Hands-on practice using Cisco Packet Tracer
• Network traffic analysis using Wireshark
• Final project: Designing a complete network for a mock organization

Teaching Method

This course is conducted through live online sessions, ensuring interactive and flexible learning. The teaching approach includes:

• Concept-focused explanations with real examples
• Hands-on demonstrations using networking tools
• Guided practice activities
• Interactive doubt-clearing sessions
• Project-based learning for practical understanding

The course emphasizes applied learning so students can understand how networking concepts are used in real IT environments.

Why This Course

This program offers a balanced combination of networking fundamentals, security awareness, and practical tool usage. The structured weekly progression ensures gradual skill development, while the final project helps learners apply their knowledge in a real-world scenario. The inclusion of hands-on tools makes the learning experience practical and career-oriented.

Benefits and Outcomes

By completing this course, students will:

• Understand core networking concepts and architectures
• Learn IP addressing and subnetting techniques
• Gain awareness of network security practices
• Develop hands-on experience with networking tools
• Build confidence in designing basic networks
• Prepare for further studies in networking or cybersecurity

This course provides a strong starting point for learners interested in IT infrastructure, networking, and cybersecurity careers.