Computer Networks: From Fundamentals to Advanced Networking
This course is a complete and practical guide to Computer Networking, designed to take learners from absolute basics to advanced networking concepts. It is ideal for beginners with no prior networking knowledge as well as students and professionals who want to build a strong, industry-ready foundation in networking.
The course starts by explaining what networking is, why it is used, and how modern networks work. Learners will gradually move into core concepts such as network types, topologies, communication models, and protocols, and then advance toward enterprise-level networking, routing, switching, security, and troubleshooting.
A strong emphasis is placed on real-world examples, diagrams, and practical understanding, making complex topics easy to grasp. By the end of the course, students will be confident in understanding how data travels across networks and how modern organizations design, manage, and secure their networks.
What You Will Learn
Module 1: Networking Fundamentals (From Scratch)
In this module, students will build a strong foundation in computer networking, starting from the absolute basics.
- What is computer networking and why we use it
- Basic networking concepts and terminology
- Types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN, WLAN, PAN, SAN
- Network topologies: Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh, Hybrid
- OSI Model – layers, functions, and real-world examples
- TCP/IP Model and comparison with OSI model
- Different network devices and their roles:
- Hub, Switch, Router, Bridge, Repeater, Modem, Firewall, Access Point
- Common networking protocols and their purpose:
- HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, DNS, DHCP, SMTP, SNMP
Module 2: IP Addressing & Subnetting
This module focuses on IP addressing, one of the most critical skills in networking.
- What is an IP address and why it is needed
- IPv4 addressing format and structure
- IP address classes: Class A, B, C, D, E
- Public vs Private IP addresses
- Subnetting concepts and benefits
- FLSM (Fixed Length Subnet Mask)
- VLSM (Variable Length Subnet Mask)
- Practical subnetting examples
- Introduction to IPv6 addressing and its advantages over IPv4
Module 3: Switching, VLANs & Network Security
This module covers switching concepts, VLANs, and layer-2 security mechanisms used in enterprise networks.
- What is a switch and why it is used
- Types of switches (Layer 2, Layer 3)
- MAC address and MAC address table (CAM table)
- VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks):
- What is VLAN
- Why we need VLANs
- Advantages of VLANs
- Types of VLANs
- VLAN configuration and verification
- Inter-VLAN routing
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) – purpose and working
- Switch port modes: Access, Trunk, Dynamic
- Port Security – concepts and configuration
- DHCP server configuration on network devices
- DHCP spoofing and basic prevention concepts
- Access Control Lists (ACLs):
- What are ACLs
- Why ACLs are used
- Types of ACLs (Standard & Extended)
- ACL configuration
- Restricting communication between VLANs using ACLs
Module 4: Routing & WAN Technologies
This advanced module explains routing concepts, dynamic routing protocols, and internet connectivity.
- What is a router and why it is used
- Differences between switching and routing
- Types of routing: Static vs Dynamic
- Dynamic routing protocols overview
- Routing Information Protocol (RIP)
- Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP)
- Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
- Routing table and route selection process
- Troubleshooting common routing issues
- Network Address Translation (NAT)
- Port Address Translation (PAT)
- Practical NAT and PAT configuration
Who This Course Is For
- Beginners starting networking from scratch
- Computer science and IT students
- Network and system administrators
- CCNA / CCNP aspirants
- Anyone interested in understanding how the internet and networks actually work
Outcome of the Course
After completing this course, learners will:
- Have a clear and structured understanding of computer networks
- Be able to design, analyze, and troubleshoot basic to intermediate networks
- Feel confident moving toward advanced certifications and real-world networking roles
Momin Amjid
Jan 13, 2026