12 Best Computer Networking Courses and Certifications - Learn Computer Networking Online

Highly curated best Computer Networking courses for beginners. Start with the best Computer Networking certification courses and learn Computer Networking as a beginner.

12 Best Computer Networking Courses and Certifications - Learn Computer Networking Online

The Best Computer Networking online courses and certifications for beginners to learn Computer Networking in 2024.

Networks are all around us and you are using one right now to access this course.

Imagine for a moment, how different your life would be without access to Facebook, Snapchat, Google, YouTube, Whatsapp, or any of the other websites on the Internet? How would you live with no Internet?

The Internet is extremely important in modern life today and all websites and Internet communication rely on networking. This reliance is only predicted to continue with the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the next few years.

Without routers, switches, network cabling, and protocols like BGP there would be no Internet!

The 20th Century has all been about information gathering, processing, and distribution. In the past few decades, the world has seen tremendous growth in these fields, from telephone networks to radio and television, from highly centralized huge computers to the smart-phones and smart-watches of today. The internet has been instrumental in connecting this world together, to billions of people and millions of devices. And this trend will keep growing rapidly throughout the 21st century too!

With thousands of businesses and millions of devices using networking for operations, Computing Networking is one of the most essential fields for study for any IT aspirant. The internet revolution has made it virtually the most essential domain knowledge to possess for everyone today.

Disclosure: Coursesity is supported by the learners community. We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase via links on Coursesity.

Top Computer Network Certifications, Courses and Certifications List

  1. Learn Networking Fundamentals Course. Your CCNA start

  2. The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking

  3. Introduction to Networking

  4. Introduction to Computer Networks for Non-Techies

  5. IT Networking Fundamentals: Online Tutorial for Beginners

  6. Computer Networking for Teachers - Online Course - FutureLearn

  7. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics

  8. Computer Network Tutorial for Learning Networking Fundamentals

  9. Network and Security Foundations

  10. Computer Fundamentals: Networking

  11. Computer Networks Security from Scratch to Advanced

  12. Computer Networking

1. Learn Networking Fundamentals Course. Your CCNA start

Learn about networking and start your journey to Cisco 200-301 Certification.

  • Course rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 (24,373 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 80 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn:

  • how to prepare for the CCNA 200-301 certification exam.
  • network fundamentals and build simple LANs.
  • IP addressing and subnetting.
  • hubs, switches, and routers.
  • OSI and TCP/IP models.
  • how addresses are allocated using DHCP.
  • name resolution using DNS.
  • Access Control Lists (ACLs).
  • Wi-Fi 6 and other Wi-Fi technologies.
  • how to protect networks from attacks such as Kali Linux hacks.

The course includes:

  • Network basics
  • Network architectures (OSI Model)
  • What are hubs, switches, routers?
  • How is data forwarded through a network?
  • IP addresses
  • IP subnetting
  • Cabling and network topologies
  • Ethernet basics
  • TCP and UDP
  • DNS and DHCP
  • Routing
  • VLANs
  • Cisco device initial configurations
  • ACLs
  • Network naming
  • IP Telephony
  • Quality of Service (QoS)
  • SDN

This course covers both the fundamentals of networking as well as the topics in the new Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam. You will learn about topics such as IP addressing, IP subnetting, Routing, Switches, VLANs, Spanning Tree, Network Address Translation, and Wireless.

You will also learn more about the latest networking trends including OpenFlow and Software-Defined Networking. At the end of this course, you will be able to confidently discuss networking topics; and be able to start configuring real networking devices such as routers and switches.

You can take the Learn Networking Fundamentals Course. Your CCNA start Certificate Course on Udemy.

2. The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking

This course is designed to provide a full overview of computer networking. You will cover everything from the fundamentals of modern networking technologies and protocols to an overview of the cloud to practical applications and network troubleshooting.

  • Course rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 (22,895 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 34 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn how to:

  • describe computer networks in terms of a five-layer model.
  • understand all of the standard protocols involved with TCP/IP communications.
  • grasp powerful network troubleshooting tools and techniques.
  • learn network services like DNS and DHCP that help make computer networks run.
  • understand cloud computing, everything as a service, and cloud storage.

This course will cover the basics of computer networking. You will learn about the TCP/IP and OSI networking models and how the network layers work together. You will also cover the basics of networking devices such as cables, hubs, and switches, routers, servers, and clients.

You will also explore the physical layer and data link layer of our networking model in more detail. By the end of this module, you will know how all the different layers of the network model fit together to create a network.

You will explore the network layer in more depth. You will learn about the IP addressing scheme and how subnetting works. You will explore how encapsulation works and how protocols such as ARP allow different layers of the network to communicate.

You will also cover the basics of routing, routing protocols, and how the Internet works. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe the IP addressing scheme, understand how subnetting works, perform binary math to describe subnets, and understand how the Internet works.

You will explore the transport and application layers. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe TCP ports and sockets, identify the different components of a TCP header, show the difference between connection-oriented and connectionless protocols, and explain how TCP is used to ensure data integrity.

You will explore networking services. You will learn about why we need DNS and how it works. You will also learn why DHCP makes network administration a simpler task. By the end of this module, you will be able to do describe how DNS and DHCP work, how NAT technologies help keep networks secure, and how VPNs and proxies help users connect and stay secured.

You will explore the history of the Internet, how it evolved, and how it works today. You will understand the different ways to connect to the Internet through cables, wireless and cellar connections, and even fiber connections. By the end of this module, you will be able to define the components of WANs and outline the basics of wireless and cellular networking.

You will explore the future of computer networking. You will also cover the practical aspects of troubleshooting a network using popular operating systems. By the end of this module, you will be able to detect and fix a lot of common network connectivity problems using tools available in Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

You can take The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking Certificate Course on Coursera.

3. Introduction to Networking

This is a self-paced course from NYU that provides an Introduction to Networking

  • Course rating: 18,315 total enrollments
  • Duration: 28 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn how to be able to:

  • describe computer networks and identify key components of networks
  • discuss the principles of networking applications and protocols such as HTTP, SMTP, and FTP.
  • describe peer to peer networks.
  • explain the principles behind the transport layer, multiplexing and demultiplexing, reliable data transfer, flow control, congestion control, and TCP and UDP.
  • explain the principles behind the network services such as network layer service model forwarding versus routing.
  • describe how routers work, including path selection, broadcast, and multicast.
  • describe IP protocol, routing algorithms, and routing protocols that are used today on the Internet RIP OSPF and BGP.
  • discuss multiple access protocols, local area network, VLANs, Ethernet.
  • explain the principles of network security, cryptography, confidentiality, identification, message integrity.
  • describe common network security technologies such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

The course includes:

  • Overview of computer networking
  • Application layer
  • Transport layer
  • Network layer
  • Link-layer
  • Overview of network security

You can take Introduction to Networking Certificate Course on Edx.

4. Introduction to Computer Networks for Non-Techies

Learn the Fundamentals of Computer Networking for Non-Techies

  • Course rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (5,710 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 14.5 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will:

  • understand how computer networks work.
  • know the inner workings of a computer network.
  • understand the benefits of computer networks.
  • know how to effectively plan and design a computer network.

The course includes:

  • How Computer Networks Work
  • Network Topologies
  • Networking Devices & Cabling
  • The OSI & TCP/IP Models
  • IP Addressing & Subnetting
  • Switches & Routers
  • Wireless Networking
  • Network Security
  • Network Planning & Designing Process

In this course, you will see the fundamentals of computer networking step-by-step. You will also learn essential computer networking core principles you need to know.

You can take Introduction to Computer Networks for Non-Techies Certificate Course on Udemy.

5. IT Networking Fundamentals: Online Tutorial for Beginners

IT Networking Fundamentals For Complete Beginners

  • Course rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (172 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 3 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn how to:

  • identify the components of a network and determine the type of network design most appropriate for a given site.
  • identify the different media used in network communications, distinguish among them, and determine how to use them to connect servers and clients in a network.
  • differentiate among networking standards, protocols, and access methods and determine which is most appropriate for a given network.
  • recognize the primary network architectures, identify their major characteristics, and determine which is most appropriate for a proposed network.
  • identify the primary functions of network operating systems and distinguish between a centralized computing environment and a client/server environment.
  • implement and support the major networking components, including the server, operating system, and clients.
  • propose a system for adequately securing data on a given network and protecting the components of the system.
  • distinguish between LANs and wide area networks (WANs) and identify the components used to expand a LAN into a WAN.
  • understand various hardware available and used in a network.
  • understand the concept of TCP/IP and protocols.

This course serves as a general introduction for students to acquire a foundation in IT Networking Fundamentals including core areas that function within a given computer network.

The course provides an introduction to the hardware, software, terminology, components, design, and connections of a network, as well as the network topologies and protocols for WANs and LANs including the all-important Subnets.

You can take IT Networking Fundamentals: Online Tutorial for Beginners Certificate Course on Eduonix.

6. Computer Networking for Teachers - Online Course - FutureLearn

Build your knowledge and understanding of computer networks as a computer science teacher. Supported by Google.

  • Course rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 (55 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 6 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn how to:

  • discuss types of network, advantages, and disadvantages, and general architecture.
  • describe the transmission of data (ethernet, wifi) and network protocols (HTTP, FTP, etc).
  • data can be transmitted securely.
  • apply knowledge of real-world usage of the networking technology.
  • describe the internet including routing, DNS, and the “worldwide web”.
  • data is encapsulated in an IP packet and a data frame for transmission.

The course includes:

  • Networks and architecture
  • Transmission of data and network protocols
  • Secure transmission of data
  • Internet including routing, DNS and the “World Wide Web”

Here, you will explore the fundamentals of computer networking. You will improve your understanding of key concepts and gain the confidence to teach the subject in the classroom. In this course, you will learn to describe the different types of computer networks and understand how data can be transmitted securely.

You will cover real-world usage of networking technology to enhance your understanding. You will also become more familiar with how the internet works, including routing, DNS, and the World Wide Web.

You can take Computer Networking for Teachers - Online Course - FutureLearn Certificate Course on Futurelearn.

7. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics

Learn Computer Networks fundamentals and Wireshark Basics; Build Strong, Successful Foundation in Computer Networking.

  • Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (223 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 3.5 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn:

  • understand how computer networks are designed, implemented, and applied at each layer.
  • important concepts about Networks and Networking.

The course includes:

  • Overview: This section introduces you to the course, provides information about the author, course structure, and gives you answers to some of the frequently asked questions by students.
  • Network basics: This section provides fundamental information on computer networks. Network topologies, different types of networks like LAN, WAN, MAN, and wireless networks are explained. One of the most important communication models of computer networks, the OSI Reference Model is discussed. Knowing the OSI Model helps in understanding network functionalities better.
  • Physical Layer: This section deals with techniques like Switching and Multiplexing which focus on effectively utilizing the existing bandwidth to accommodate the high rate of data communication.
  • Datalink Layer: This section begins with a lecture on framing, a technique to demarcate the frame boundaries. Later we discuss the flow and error control mechanisms, different error detection and correction techniques like Parity Check, Checksum, CRC, and Hamming Codes.
  • Network Layer: In this section header formats of IPv4 and IPv6 datagrams are explained.
  • Transport Layer: This section explains the Transport Layer protocols that provide service to the Network Layer. Header format, features, and services provided by TCP and UDP are explained.
  • Application Layer: This section begins with Cryptography basics, private key encryption, and public-key encryption. Encryption algorithms like RSA are explained with examples. Also, the File Transfer Protocol is explained.

This course will teach you all the fundamentals about Computer Networking; From explaining Computer Networks basics, communication models, and detailed lectures on Layers of a network.

This course has illustrative and animated diagrams to help you understand the concepts in an easier way. From solving network-related problems to discussing applications of these concepts, it has covered the practical aspects of networking.

You can take Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics Certificate Course on Udemy.

8. Computer Network Tutorial for Learning Networking Fundamentals

Introduction to Networking Fundamentals for Beginners

  • Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (94 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 2 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn about:

  • Network Fundamentals.
  • Networking models.
  • Important Protocols.
  • Networks and its types.

The course will provide the skills you will need to ace in networking. The course will cover fundamental topics of the field and provide a solid understanding of underlying concepts.

You can take Computer Network Tutorial for Learning Networking Fundamentals Certificate Course on Eduonix.

9. Network and Security Foundations

This course introduces the components of a computer network and the concept and role of communication protocols. The course covers widely used categorical classifications of networks, as well as network topologies, physical devices, and layered abstraction.

  • Course rating: 7,978 total enrollments
  • Duration: 75 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn:

  • the basic concepts essential to networking.
  • the functional and technical components of network systems.
  • the basic security concepts associated with networks.

The course introduces basic concepts of security, covering vulnerabilities of networks and mitigation techniques, the security of physical media, and security policies and procedures.

This course introduces networks such as the local area network (LAN), the enterprise network, the campus area network (CAN), the metropolitan area network (MAN), metro Ethernet, the personal area network (PAN), the virtual private network (VPN), and the wide-area network (WAN).

The course discusses the essentials of implementing modern computer networks. Each lesson goes through various networking technologies. The course introduces the concepts and practices associated with network security vulnerabilities, threats, risk mitigation, and the policies and procedures associated with security management.

You can take the Network and Security Foundations Certificate Course on Edx.

10. Computer Fundamentals: Networking

Networking is what connects the world! This course will teach you the basic concepts and services of networking.

  • Course rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (62 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 2.2 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn:

  • the basic concepts and services of networking.
  • foundational knowledge of networking services.
  • discover the different types of networks and internet connection types that are available.

You will learn foundational knowledge of networking services and concepts. First, you will explore what the different networking concepts are. Next, you will discover the different hardware that you will find on a network.

Finally, you will discover the different types of networks and internet connection types that are available and learn which one is the best for each scenario.

When you are finished with this course, you will have the skills and knowledge of networking needed to design and configure a home or small office network.

You can take Computer Fundamentals: Networking Certificate Course on Pluralsight.

11. Computer Networks Security from Scratch to Advanced

Computer Networks Security Technologies and Tools for Network Admins and Cyber Security Officers

  • Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (1,880 Ratings total)
  • Duration: 8 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate of completion

In this course, you will learn about:

  • Computer Networks.
  • ISO/OSI Model (7 Layers).
  • TCP/IP Protocol Suite.
  • Wireless Networks.
  • Computer Networks Security.
  • Firewalls and Honeypots.
  • Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS).
  • Wireless Networks Security.
  • Physical Security & Incident Handling.
  • Computer Networks Security Recommendations.

By the end of this course, you will be fully aware of the wired and wireless computer networks basics, devices, and protocols in a step-by-step pace.

You will also reach the professional level in network security in terms of concepts, technologies, and tools. The course requires no background or pre-requisite, yet you will be able to understand all the up-to-date terminologies in the network's security during the lectures.

You can take Computer Networks Security from Scratch to Advanced Certificate Course on Udemy.

12. Computer Networking

This is an advanced Computer Networking course that delves into the latest concepts and tools used by the CN industry.

In this course, you will learn about:

  • Computer Networking Overview
  • Architectural Design Principles
  • Packet Switching
  • File transfer
  • End to End Argument Violations
  • Switching and Bridging
  • Bootstrapping: Networking Two Hosts
  • ARP: Address Resolution Protocol
  • Interconnecting LANs with Hubs
  • Switches: Traffic Isolation
  • Spanning Tree
  • Switches vs. Routers
  • Buffer Sizing for a TCP Sender
  • Internet Routing
  • Intra-AS Topology
  • Distance-Vector Routing
  • Link State Routing
  • Interdomain Routing
  • IGP vs. iBGP
  • BGP Route Selection
  • Multiple Exit Discriminator (MED)
  • Interdomain Routing Business Models

This course covers advanced topics in Computer Networking such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Data Center Networking, and Content Distribution. The course is divided into three parts:

Part 1 is about the implementation, design principles, and goals of a Computer Network and touches upon the various routing algorithms used in CN (such as link-state and distance vector).

Part 2 talks about resource control and content distribution in Networking Applications. It covers Congestion Control and Traffic Shaping.

Part 3 deals with the operations and management of computer networks encompassing SDN's (Software Defined Networks), Traffic Engineering, and Network Security.

You can take Computer Networking Certificate Course on Udacity.


Thank you for reading this. We hope our course curation would help you to pick the right course to learn Computer Networking. In case you want to explore more, you can take the free Computer Networking courses.

Hey! If you have made it this far then certainly you are willing to learn more and here at Coursesity, it is our duty to enlighten people with knowledge on topics they are willing to learn. Here are some more topics that we think will be interesting for you.