Cisco: CCNA - Introduction to Networks

Networked systems form the backbone of modern information systems. They’re rapidly evolving and adapting to changing infrastructure, consumer, and cybersecurity demands.

As networks expand, so has the demand for people with infrastructure networking expertise within computing, digital technologies, and infrastructure engineering.

On this ten-week microcredential from Cisco and The Open University, you’ll lay the groundwork for the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, building your knowledge and skills in infrastructure networking.

Gain industry-recognised skills to begin your networking career

For digital technologists and network engineers wanting a solid foundation in networking basics, this course will prepare you for a range of technology routes, including the Cisco Certified Network Associate.

You’ll learn the basics of networking, from network fundamentals and technologies to the principles and structure of IP addressing, Ethernet concepts, and network application communications.

Increase your knowledge, skills, and expertise on different networking concepts

Throughout the course you’ll take part in weekly activities to support and consolidate your learning. By the end, you’ll be able to apply a range of networking concepts, design a simple networking address scheme, experiment with a networking environment, and implement foundational networking technology skills. You’ll also be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes.

The assessment that you submit at the end of the course will be marked and graded by academic experts from The Open University.

Learn from the experts at the largest Cisco Academy in the UK

This microcredential is endorsed by Cisco and designed by leading experts and practitioners from The Open University’s award-winning Cisco ‘NetAcad’ academy.

Through guided academic learning in a supportive online learning environment, you’ll have mentor support, share experiences with other learners, and begin your Cisco Certified Network Associate certification journey and futureproof your career in networking.

A unique pathway to obtaining the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification in Routing and Switching

This course is the start of a three-part microcredential pathway, preparing you for the CCNA certification (content formerly covered in the CCNA Routing and Switching certification).

Part 1: Cisco: CCNA - Introduction to Networks
Part 2: Cisco: CCNA - Switching, Wireless and Routing Essentials (coming soon)
Part 3: Cisco: CCNA - Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation (coming soon)

The subsequent two microcredentials will explore the extensive range of technologies that form current networks, such as the Internet, corporate networks or domestic broadband, and WiFi connections.

By the end of the three-part microcredential pathway you’ll be fully prepared to take the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, setting you up for a career in networking.