Learn the basics of communications and networking. This skill path will provide you with a general understanding of Network Fundamentals in the context of IT & Cybersecurity Foundations.
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Network Fundamentals is a beginner-level skill path designed to introduce you to basic networking concepts and skills, including OSI and TCP/IP reference models, IP addressing, network devices, Wireshark, Nmap, VPNs, and network troubleshooting.
Upon completing this skill path, you are encouraged to enroll in the complete IT and Cybersecurity Foundations career path.
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This brief course is designed to introduce you to fundamental networking and network security concepts. You will learn basic networking terminology and topics like the CIA triad, networking models, common ports and protocols, common network-based threats, and network infrastructure security.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn about the OSI and TCP/IP Reference Models and how they are used to organize the communications standards used by computer networks. You will then explore the different layers of the two models using Wireshark and a PCAP file containing wireless network traffic.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn the basics of IP addressing. You will practice analyzing a TCP/IP network topology in the GNS3 network simulator using basic Linux commands.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn the basics of network devices. You will practice assessing and configuring a simple network topology in the GNS3 network simulator.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn the basics of Wireshark, including basic functionality and practical applications. You will practice packet capture and analysis using a range of different protocols and Wireshark features, including display filters, streams, and conversation filters.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn the basics of Nmap, including basic functionality and practical applications. You will practice scanning and enumeration using a range of different Nmap options.
In this lab, you will learn the basics of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). You will practice configuring a site-to-site IPsec VPN implementation using two pfSense firewall appliances.
In this hands-on lab, you will learn the basics of network troubleshooting. You will practice using common network troubleshooting tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve various network connectivity issues.
Exercise your problem-solving and creative thinking skills with security-centric puzzles
In this hands-on challenge, you will have the opportunity to put your Wireshark skills to the test.
In this hands-on challenge, you will practice troubleshooting issues in a simulated network using GNS3.
Assess your knowledge and skills to identify areas for improvement and measure your growth
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Put your skills to the test in virtual labs, challenges, and simulated environments.
Track your skills development from lesson to lesson using the Cybrary Skills Tracker.
Connect with peers and mentors through our supportive community of cybersecurity professionals.
Network Fundamentals is a self-paced, hands-on skill path, ideal for individuals pursuing a career in IT support, network administration, or cybersecurity. This path has no prerequisites, but learners should have a working knowledge of modern technology, basic analytical skills, and a strong desire to learn.
This path covers basic networking concepts, terminology, and skills essential to working in IT and cybersecurity. Topics include:
Learners will get hands-on with virtual labs and challenges designed to test your skills and prepare you for success in real-world scenarios.
A solid understanding of networking is foundational to nearly every IT and cybersecurity role. No matter where your cybersecurity career takes you, you’ll need to understand how data moves through networks, how devices communicate, and how to protect that communication from unauthorized access. Learning these fundamentals provides a solid foundation on which to build your IT and cybersecurity expertise.
Networking knowledge is critical in many cybersecurity positions. Roles that rely heavily on networking skills include: