Data Communications and Network Services (Coursera)

Now that you know the basics of what an network is and how the devices on a network communicate with each other, it is time to explore the network further. In this course, you will learn the benefits and limitations of the IPv4 addressing system and why NAT and IPv6 were implemented to address the limitations. You will also explore common network services and protocols such as email, web services, instant messaging, DNS, HTTP, HTML, SMTP, Telnet, and SSH.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Describe the role of network services including DHCP and DNS.

2. Use Cisco Packet Tracer to configure a router to perform DHCP services for a LAN.

3. Explain use of IPv4 private addresses with NAT.

4. Compare TCP and UDP protocol operations for efficiency and reliability.

5. Describe the network services and applications for file transfer, web access, email, remote access and instant messaging.

6. Observe how web requests are processed by the web client and the server.

7. Use various tools to verify network operations.

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Who is this class for: This class is designed for beginners in computing that want to understand the basics of how data is sent and received in a network and how small computer networks are created. People who may be in non-networking professions that would like to understand how their home or small business network works will enjoy this course. Previous networking knowledge is not required. This course is designed to provide an introduction to the basics of networking and will cover only a very small portion of the necessary knowledge and skills needed to achieve an entry-level Cisco networking certification. Access to a Windows 10 machine and a simulation tool called Cisco Packet Tracer is required to get the full benefit of the course.

Course 3 of 5 in the Cisco Networking Basics Specialization

Syllabus

WEEK 1

Obtaining Addressing Information Automatically

In this module, you will learn the purpose and benefits of using static and dynamic addressing in a network. You will use Packet Tracer to create a small wired network and enable the devices to automatically obtain the needed addressing information to connect to the network.

Graded: Static and Dynamic Address Assignments

Graded: PT Activity – Configure DHCP on a Wireless Router

Graded: Week 1 Quiz

Graded: Help! I am not Connected!

WEEK 2

Limitations of IPv4 and Transitioning to IPv6

In this module, you learn the benefits and limitations of the IPv4 addressing system and why NAT and IPv6 were implemented to address the limitations. You will use Packet Tracer to create and examine traffic for NAT translations.

Graded: PT Activity – Examine NAT on a Wireless Router

Graded: Week 2 Quiz

WEEK 3

Transporting Data Effectively and Efficiently

In this module, you will observe the interactions that occur between servers and clients as data is requested and transmitted over the network. You will learn how data is transported across the network and the protocols that are used to accomplish the tasks. Comparisons between the two transport layer protocols, TCP and UDP will be made.

Graded: Activity – Service to Client Request

Graded: PT Activity – The Client Interaction

Graded: Week 3 Quiz

WEEK 4

Common Network Services

There are numerous services requested and delivered over the network. Some may seem apparent while others are at work in the background providing needed services. In this module, you will learn about common network services and protocols such as email, web services, instant messaging, DNS, HTTP, HTML, SMTP, Telnet, and SSH.

Graded: Lab – Observing DNS Name Resolution

Graded: PT Activity – Observing Web Requests

Graded: Week 4 Quiz