Skills in Computer Networking

Computer Networking – 3-Month Course Outline

Duration: 12 Weeks (Approx. 120 Hours)
Mode: 5 classes per week, 2 hours each

Month 1: Networking Basics

Week 1: Introduction to Networking

• What is a network? Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
• Network topologies
• Network devices (Router, Switch, Hub, etc.)
• OSI Model – Overview of 7 layers

Week 2: Network Media & Communication

• Transmission media (wired/wireless)
• Data transmission methods
• Network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, FTP, HTTP)
• IP addressing basics

Week 3: IP Addressing & Subnetting

• IPv4 structure and classes
• Subnet masks and subnetting
• CIDR notation
• Static vs Dynamic IP

Week 4: Devices and Network Configuration

• Configuring switches and routers
• MAC addresses and ARP
• Basic router/switch commands (Cisco/Packet Tracer)
• Network troubleshooting tools (ping, tracert, ipconfig)

Month 2: Intermediate Networking

Week 5: Wireless Networks & Security

• WLAN setup and configuration
• Wireless standards (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)
• Encryption types: WEP, WPA, WPA2
• Securing wireless networks

Week 6: DHCP, DNS, and NAT

• DHCP: Function, setup, and troubleshooting
• DNS: Domain resolution and caching
• NAT and PAT concepts

Week 7: Switching and VLANs

• Layer 2 switching
• VLAN concepts and configuration
• Inter-VLAN routing
• Trunking and VTP

Week 8: Routing Concepts

• Static vs. Dynamic routing
• Routing protocols (RIP, OSPF, EIGRP – overview)
• Basic configuration in Packet Tracer

Month 3: Applied Networking & Final Project

Week 9: Network Troubleshooting

• Troubleshooting methodology
• Using CLI tools and logs
• Identifying and fixing connectivity issues

Week 10: Network Simulation Tools

• Introduction to Cisco Packet Tracer
• Simulating networks and testing designs
• Hands-on activities

Week 11: Mini Projects

• Design and simulate small business/home networks
• Apply learned concepts: VLANs, IPs, routing

Week 12: Final Project

• Full implementation: Design and simulate a real-world enterprise network
• Documentation and network diagram submission
• Presentation and evaluation