You're looking at breaking into the tech industry, and a lot of resources point to networking as a prime starting point for careers in cyber security, network engineering, IT management, cloud computing, and many other tech positions. But where do you begin in the vast field of networking, not to mention career prospects?
Fret not; we’re here to alleviate your frustration. This article begins by explaining the key differences between setting up computer networks at home versus in an enterprise setting, because the networking jobs you’ll look for all require skills in the latter.
Next, we’ll explore courses covering key networking topics, preparing you for professional success: networking foundations, protocols and subnetting, labs, network administration, and network security. These enterprise networking skills build upon one another, providing a solid foundation regardless of which tech career path you ultimately pursue.
Without further ado, let’s dive in.
Home Networking vs Enterprise Networking
The best way to illustrate the differences between setting up computer networks at home and in business is that of cooking at home versus cooking for a restaurant. At home, you might use a few basic tools for simple meals, but restaurants need industrial equipment, multiple stations, and coordinated systems to serve hundreds of customers efficiently.
Similarly, while home networking typically involves fewer than 25 devices with basic routing, Wi-Fi, and limited security measures, enterprise networks are much more complex, sometimes including thousands of devices ranging from basic workstations, servers, and printers to advanced network devices such as network-attached storage, VoIP equipment, and IoT machines.
Owing to the greater scale, complexity, and stakes involved, enterprise networks demand specialized skills such as:
- Understanding VLANs and redundancy concepts
- Configuring switches, routers, firewalls, and VPNs
- Using subnetting to create more manageable networks
- Administering identity and access management (IAM)
- Monitoring performance and troubleshooting issues
- Maintaining 24/7 reliability with failover/redundancy
- Advanced network security
Beginner certifications, such as CCNA and Network+, are a popular starting point to gain the skills needed in enterprise networking. See our Top 8 Networking Certifications for Your Success for more information.
Learning Networking Foundations
The following courses give you a solid grounding in the basics of enterprise computer networking and lay the groundwork for a future career in cyber security:
1. CompTIA Network+ Objectives: Total N10-009 Course
Updated to reflect the latest CompTIA Network+ exam objectives, this course also covers nearly all the foundational knowledge expected of a networking professional in a down-to-earth manner. It provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the Network+ certification exam.
Mike Meyers, Joe Ramm, and Lyndon Williams join forces to break down essential Network+ concepts such as:
- Networking Models: Understand OSI and TCP/IP models, ports, protocols, and MAC addressing.
- IP Addressing & Subnetting: Learn how to calculate subnets, configure IPs, and troubleshoot addressing issues.
- Network Security: Explore access control, encryption, authentication, network monitoring techniques, and secure network design.
- Network Troubleshooting Methodology: Apply a structured methodology and tools to diagnose and resolve network problems.
- Network Cabling & Topology: Identify cabling types, connectors, and network topologies used in wired and wireless technologies.
- Routing & Switching: Master routing protocols, VLANs, NAT, and network device configurations.
- Virtualization & Cloud Concepts: Understand cloud models, virtualization platforms, and software-defined networking.
- Wireless & Remote Access: Configure Wi-Fi networks, VPNs, and remote connectivity solutions.
By illustrating how all network components fit together, how networks operate, the purpose of various hardware, and effective troubleshooting practices, this course lays a solid foundation for developing practical networking skills in preparation for a career in networking.
Whether you’re pursuing the CompTIA Network+ certification or simply exploring it, we highly recommend this course.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CompTIA Network+ Training Bundle (N10-009): 4 Courses
2. CompTIA Network+ Study Guide: Master N10-009 Objectives
If you only have very little time to learn networking fundamentals or prepare for Network+, this course is for you. A crash course by top networking instructor Kevin Wallace, it prepares you for the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam by covering every objective in the certification blueprint through engaging instruction, real-world examples, and hands-on practice exams.
You will have a solid understanding of networking concepts, technologies, and implementations, such as:
- Networking Models: Understand OSI and TCP/IP models, ports, protocols, and MAC addressing.
- IP Addressing & Subnetting: Learn how to calculate subnets, configure IPs, and troubleshoot addressing issues.
- Network Security: Explore access control, encryption, authentication, network monitoring techniques, and secure network design.
- Network Troubleshooting Methodology: Apply a structured methodology and tools to diagnose and resolve network problems.
- Network Cabling & Topology: Identify cabling types, connectors, and network topologies used in wired and wireless technologies.
- Routing & Switching: Master routing protocols, VLANs, NAT, and network device configurations.
- Virtualization & Cloud Concepts: Understand cloud models, virtualization platforms, and software-defined networking.
- Wireless & Remote Access: Configure Wi-Fi networks, VPNs, and remote connectivity solutions.
This intensive study guide efficiently covers all essential Network+ topics, making it perfect for busy professionals who need focused exam preparation.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CompTIA Network+ Training Bundle (N10-009): 4 Courses
3. CCNA Course Online: 200-301 v1.1 Training Series
The following course is ideal if you plan on taking the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification exam or if you are seeking to acquire intermediate networking skills.
Instructors Kevin Wallace and Charles Judd will cover the following:
- IPv4 addressing: Assign, verify, and subnet IPv4 addresses.
- Network programmability: Learn SDN, REST APIs, and automation tools.
- Security fundamentals: Set up AAA, VPNs, and Layer 2 protections.
- Network services: Use NAT, DHCP, NTP, and management protocols.
- CCNA exam preparation: Apply proven study strategies and take mock exams.
- Ethernet switching: Configure VLANs, trunking, and STP features.
- Wireless networks: Understand WLAN design, AP modes, and interference.
- Network services: Use NAT, DHCP, NTP, and management protocols.
- IP routing: Implement static and dynamic routing protocols.
In addition to 19 hours of video instruction, you’ll get practical training in IP connectivity, routing, switching, wireless, automation, and security to help you pass the exam and be eligible for network administrator or engineer positions.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CCNA Certification Training Course Bundle
Once you’ve grasped the networking basics, you’ll move on to network ports and protocols.
Protocols and Subnetting Courses
A comprehensive working knowledge of network protocols and the ability to create subnetworks (subnetting) are crucial functions performed by network engineers and administrators on a day-to-day basis. We have the following courses that go deep into such topics.
4. What Is IPv4 and IPv6: The Only IP Course You Will Ever Need
Based on the book of the same name by instructor Lazaro Diaz, this course provides clear, practical instruction for mastering Internet Protocol (IP) fundamentals, including the core differences between IPv4 and IPv6, as well as IP addressing, subnetting, and configuration.
It covers the following topics:
- IP addresses and assignment: Grasp how devices receive unique IPs and manage address space.
- Subnetting in IPv4 and IPv6: Break down networks efficiently using binary and hexadecimal structures.
- Stateless address auto configuration: Assign IPv6 addresses automatically without a DHCP server.
- Network address translation (NAT): Translate private IPs to a single public IP for internet access.
- Dynamic routing protocols: Configure RIPng, EIGRP, and OSPFv3 for IPv6 route management.
- IPv6 address types and expressions: Identify and format global unicast, link-local, and other address types.
- Route aggregation and summarization: Simplify routing tables with efficient IP address grouping.
- Key IPv4 vs IPv6 differences: Compare IPv4 vs IPv6 in terms of structure, addressing, and routing capabilities.
The content covered by this course is essential for anyone in networking, cyber security, or general IT roles.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CCNA Certification Training Course Bundle
5. How to Subnet IPv4 for CCNA Practice
A great way to master protocols and subnets is to practice identifying them in labs. This course is the practical counterpart of the previous course, also by Lazaro Diaz, focusing on CCNA. You’ll need a simulator/emulator to follow the course, such as Cisco Packet Tracer, VIRL, GNS3, BOSOM, or Live Equipment.
In this course, you’ll learn how to subnet IPv4 addresses without a calculator, assign subnet masks, calculate valid host addresses, and design IP networks for real-world and exam scenarios in the following ways:
- How to subnet IPv4: Create and break down subnets manually.
- Address classes: Work with Class C and other IP address types.
- Wildcard masking: Calculate and apply masks for access control.
- CIDR and summarization: Collapse routes for smaller networks.
- Subnet mask basics: Understand network and host portion calculations.
- Valid host addresses: Determine usable ranges in subnets.
- Router configuration: Assign IPs and verify connectivity via CLI.
- Practice exams: Sharpen your subnetting skills for the CCNA exam.
By the end of this hands-on course, you'll have the practical subnetting skills essential for CCNA certification and real-world network design.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CCNA Certification Training Course Bundle
You will find enjoyment and fun in doing these labs, and the good news is we have more of them below.
Advanced Topics and Labs
The first of these course recommendations is an advanced series of labs and a comprehensive course in network administration, which is perfect preparation for those vying for a network administrator job position.
Cisco Packet Tracer Labs Crash Course for CCNA Prep
Tailored for prospective CCNA candidates, this focused crash course will help you configure routing, VLANs, NAT, and core IP services. It provides hands-on practice on real-world Cisco Packet Tracer labs, granting you the skills needed to earn your CCNA certification and thrive in IT networking.
It covers these topics:
- Cisco Packet Tracer labs: Build and troubleshoot full network topologies.
- IP addressing: Configure and verify network-wide connectivity.
- VLANs and trunking: Create, name, and assign VLANs on Layer 2 switches.
- Inter-VLAN routing: Enable communication using Layer 3 switches.
- EIGRP configuration: Implement routing protocols for dynamic connectivity.
- NAT overload: Set up PAT to conserve public IP addresses.
- Network security: Apply port security and create access control lists (ACLs).
- Troubleshooting: Verify and debug your network configuration.
This course is also suitable for anyone preparing for a networking job interview and seeking to navigate that process successfully. So even if you’ve got no plans for CCNA, have a sneak peek. You’ll be glad you did.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: CCNA Certification Training Course Bundle
7. Linux Networking Course: Administration Essentials
Many small, medium, and large enterprises rely on Linux servers. Designed for students who want to learn everything about the networking components within a Linux system, this course covers fundamental to advanced networking components in Linux, teaching skills necessary for configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Linux network environments to ensure efficient and secure server administration.
It targets anyone who wants to learn Linux networking, those with Linux experience who would like to know about the Linux command line interface, and Linux users seeking to become power users.
You’ll learn about:
- Network Components: Understand the essential networking components within a Linux system.
- Network Files: Learn about important network configuration files and how to manage them.
- NIC Bonding: Master the process of NIC bonding for improved network performance and redundancy.
- File Transfer: Use commands like SCP and rsync for secure and efficient file transfers.
- Network Tools: Utilize tools like curl and ping for network troubleshooting and diagnostics.
- Remote Access: Set up and use SSH and telnet for remote server access.
- Time Synchronization: Configure NTP and chronyd for accurate timekeeping across network systems.
- Traffic Tracing: Learn to trace and analyze network traffic using traceroute.
- Network Interface: Gather and manage information about network interfaces (NICs).
- Hostname Lookup: Perform hostname and IP lookups to ensure proper network configurations.
This course gives you a deep and comprehensive understanding of Linux networking so that you can become competent as a system administrator of Linux servers.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: The Complete Linux Training Courses Bundle
Mastering these advanced networking topics gives you a firm foundation for networking security. The next section may be the reason you’re reading on.
Networking Security Courses
Cyber security and network security overlap in so many ways that getting a solid grasp of network security lays the foundation for a cyber security career. We list the best courses for mastering network security below.
8. Linux Security Course: Comprehensive Guide
Suitable for beginners and intermediate Linux users, this guide to Linux security teaches you to apply essential security measures to protect Linux systems and reduce the risk of hacking or attacks through system hardening.
For those of you who want to gain a specialization in Red Hat Linux, it even covers material for the Red Hat Certified Engineer exam, enhancing your networking career prospects.
You’ll learn the following:
- OS Hardening: Learn the concepts and steps to harden your Linux operating system.
- Password Policies: Set and enforce strong password policies and parameters.
- SSH Security: Disable SSH access for specific users and change SSH ports.
- User Account Management: Lock or deactivate user accounts manually and after failed attempts.
- File Permissions: Manage Linux file ownership and permissions effectively.
- Security Breaches: Understand different types of security breaches and how to prevent them.
- Logging and Auditing: Implement system auditing and logging for enhanced security.
- Service Management: Restrict direct root login and manage services securely.
- Message of the Day (motd): Configure motd for security messages and alerts.
- Exam Preparation: Prepare for the Red Hat Certified Engineer (EX300) exam with practical skills.
It’s a perfect step up into security topics and a seamless segue from the previous Linux network administration course, something any student gaining networking skills won’t want to miss.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: The Complete Linux Training Courses Bundle
9. The Complete Nmap Ethical Hacking Course
Nmap is a staple in many network security courses, and a lot of you may already have had exposure to it. This course is different in that it’ll take you from beginner to expert in easy-to-follow, structured steps in just over four hours of on-demand video.
You’ll become a master in Nmap (Network Mapper) commands and learn how Nmap performs network scanning, OS detection, and service enumeration on a target host for penetration testing and network security, because this course will teach you:
- Nmap Basics: Learn basic Nmap commands, how to install Nmap, and configure it for scanning.
- Port Scanning Techniques: Use TCP scan, UDP scan, SYN scan, and Connect scan to identify open TCP ports and closed ports.
- OS & Service Detection: Perform OS detection, service version detection, and fingerprint network devices.
- Network Mapping & Target Selection: Learn network mapping techniques, specify an IP range, and target specific hosts.
- Advanced Scan Techniques: Utilize decoy scans, TCP connections, packet filters, and bypass firewalls for stealth scanning.
- Command Line Interfaces: Execute scans efficiently using the command prompt and CLI tools.
- Scan Specific Ports: Learn how to scan specific ports and analyze vulnerabilities.
- Nmap Scripting Engine (NSE): Use NSE scripts for vulnerability detection and automation.
- Firewall & IDS Evasion: Implement scanning methods to avoid detection and penetration testing restrictions.
- Nmap Cheat Sheet & Automation: Get a comprehensive Nmap cheat sheet for quick reference and learn automation techniques.
This comprehensive course will equip you with the advanced Nmap skills needed for professional network security assessments and penetration testing.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: Nmap Training Course Bundle: The Complete Nmap Guide
10. The Complete Cyber Security Course! Volume 2: Network Security
We saved the best for last. This course is the second part of our classical bestselling “Complete Cyber Security Course!” where you get to master network security with advanced techniques, including vulnerability scanning, network firewall security, and Wi-Fi protection.
Configuring firewalls, managing network security, and mitigating threats from hackers with real-world tools and strategies are among the topics covered, as you’ll see below:
- Network Security Essentials: Learn to identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities across an entire network.
- Firewall Configuration: Master firewall setup on Windows, MacOS, and Linux to defend against attacks.
- Vulnerability Scanning: Use tools like Nmap, Nessus, and OpenVAS for thorough network security management.
- Wi-Fi Security: Understand how to hack Wi-Fi and learn techniques to secure your wireless network from attacks.
- Network Monitoring Tools: Discover potential hackers and malware with Wireshark, Tcpdump, and Syslog.
- Browser Security: Reduce browser attack surfaces and prevent tracking with tools like uBlock Origin and NoScript.
- Authentication Methods: Explore password management, multi-factor authentication, and best practices for securing credentials.
- Search Engine Privacy: Learn to mitigate tracking issues with tools like DuckDuckGo and private search engines.
Our network security course provides the advanced skills and practical experience needed to protect enterprise networks and advance your cyber security career.
This course is available for purchase in the following course bundle: The Complete Cyber Security Course Bundle
You’ll be glad to know that every course listed above gets updates to reflect the latest trends and cyber security recommendations, so you get to learn the most up-to-date information for exams and practical skills.
Conclusion
Breaking into the networking field remains an achievable goal for any beginner willing to put in the required time and effort to overcome the challenges in networking certification exams. This article on the best networking courses for beginners helps you clarify your starting point in the field, allowing you to pursue a career in networking and beyond confidently.
To enhance your knowledge and exam readiness, you can purchase any of the courses we’ve mentioned above in our networking bundles:
Each will grant you access to comprehensive video training, labs, downloadable resources, and more.
Don’t forget to secure your Network+ exam voucher through our StationX voucher page at a discount of up to 30% off.
If cyber security is your ultimate career goal, consider joining the StationX Master’s Program to access more than 30,000 courses and labs and receive guidance on career and certification paths. As a member, you’ll benefit from mentorship, mastermind groups, and a supportive community to enhance your learning experience and career prospects.
The future of networking is bright. No matter how you enter the field, we wish you all the best in your endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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