Network Architecture Fundamentals

Network Architecture Fundamentals

This course is part of Network Fundamentals Specialization

Instructor: Mai Vang

2,017 already enrolled

Included with

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9 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

No prior experience required

4 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

9 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

No prior experience required

4 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Explain key network types and architectures, including LANs, WANs, cloud networking, network segmentation, and wireless technologies
Describe and compare the OSI and TCP/IP network models, including L2 versus L3 networks, and identify core network protocols such as TCP and UDP
Recognize the purpose of load balancing and routing, and describe the differences between IPv4 and IPv6 addressing

Skills you'll gain

Tools you'll learn

OSI Models

Details to know

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Network Fundamentals Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 9 modules in this course

Unlock the essential skills needed to understand and navigate today’s interconnected world with our comprehensive introduction to computer networks. In this course, you’ll explore how devices communicate and share resources, gaining insight into the foundational role networks play in modern life. You’ll discover different network types based on their geographical scope, and learn the strengths and limitations of various network topologies in terms of scalability, fault tolerance, and performance.

A key highlight of this course is a clear, approachable introduction to the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, breaking down each layer for easy understanding. You’ll also explore network segmentation and the latest in wireless technologies, equipping you with knowledge relevant to real-world applications. What makes this course unique is its practical focus and accessible explanations, designed for both beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge. By the end of the course, you will confidently describe core concepts in network architecture, giving you a strong foundation for further study or career advancement in IT and networking.

The complexity of a deployed network infrastructure depends on the scale of its deployment. Depending on the scale of deployment, they are primarily classified into three categories: LAN, WAN, and cloud. In this module, you will learn about their characteristics, similarities, and differences.

What's included

3 videos3 readings1 assignment

3 videos Total 16 minutes

Network Categories: LANs 4 minutes
Network Categories: WANs 5 minutes
Network Categories: Cloud Computing 7 minutes

3 readings Total 22 minutes

Network Fundamentals - Specialization Introduction 2 minutes
Network Architecture Fundamentals Course Syllabus 5 minutes
Network Categories: LANs, WANs, and Cloud 15 minutes

1 assignment Total 6 minutes

Knowledge Check - Network Categories: LANs, WANs, and Cloud 6 minutes

To define interoperability between network devices and software, the ISO created the OSI model to serve as a framework on which a suite of protocols can be built. In this module, you will learn about the popular OSI model and its seven layers.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 assignment

The TCP/IP model represents a protocol suite. It is similar to the ISO OSI model in that it uses layers to organize protocols. TCP/IP protocols are actively used in actual networks today. In this module, you will learn about the TCP/IP model and the different layers that constitute it.

What's included

3 videos3 readings1 assignment

3 videos Total 12 minutes

Network Models: TCP 2 minutes
Comparing OSI and TCP/IP 2 minutes
Layer 2 and Layer 3 Networks 8 minutes

3 readings Total 23 minutes

TCP/IP Protocol Suite 8 minutes
Comparing OSI and TCP/IP 8 minutes
Layer 2 and Layer 3 Networks 7 minutes

1 assignment Total 9 minutes

Knowledge Check -Network Models: TCP/IP, OSI and TCP/IP comparison, Layer 2 and Layer 3 networks 9 minutes

In this module, you will learn the significance of IP addresses and how routers route packets to their destinations.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 assignment

IPv4 provides approximately 4 billion unique addresses. Although 4 billion is a large number of addresses, it is not enough to keep up with the growth of the internet. In this module, you will learn about IPv6, which tries to solve the problem of IP exhaustion.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 assignment

In this module, you will learn about the transport layer and its responsibilities.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 assignment

Segmentation divides a computer network into smaller parts. The purpose is to improve network performance and security. Other terms that often mean the same thing are network segregation, network partitioning, and network isolation.

What's included

3 videos1 reading1 assignment

One of the most important aspects of wireless operation is how Wi-Fi operates over the air. In this module, you will learn the basics of Wi-Fi technologies, Wi-Fi 6E and 5G.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 assignment

What's included

1 reading1 assignment

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Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Mai Vang

Cisco Learning and Certifications

10 Courses 2,372 learners

Offered by

Cisco Learning and Certifications

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Frequently asked questions

To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.