CCNA: Introduction to Networks

Cisco Networking Academy 70 hours (self-paced) English Free course Digital Badge 4.7 (4,500+ reviews)

Free course

Course Description

This is where serious networking careers begin. CCNA: Introduction to Networks is the first course in Cisco's official CCNA curriculum, the gold standard for networking certifications worldwide. If you want to become a network engineer, administrator, or IT professional, this is your essential starting point.

You'll learn the architecture, structure, and functions of networks. Topics include network fundamentals, OSI and TCP/IP models, Ethernet, IP addressing and subnetting (including VLSM), routing basics, and how devices communicate. The course includes hands-on labs using Cisco Packet Tracer, a network simulation tool, so you can practice configuring routers and switches without any physical equipment.

This free, self-paced course takes about 70 hours to complete and is part of the three-course CCNA series. It's rigorous and comprehensive, designed for motivated learners who are serious about networking. Upon completion, you'll receive an official Cisco digital badge and be well-prepared to continue with the next CCNA courses and ultimately take the CCNA certification exam.

Course Provider

Provider: Cisco Networking Academy, the world's leading IT and networking education program, having trained millions of students since 1997.

Platform: Cisco NetAcad online platform – fully online, self-paced, with integrated Packet Tracer labs.

Accreditation: This course directly maps to the first part of the official CCNA certification (200-301 exam). Completing it gives you a strong foundation for the certification exam.

Course Syllabus (Core Modules)

Module 1: Networking Today – The role of networks, network components, and basic network representations.

Module 2: Basic Switch and End Device Configuration – Cisco IOS access, basic commands, and device configuration.

Module 3: Protocols and Models – OSI and TCP/IP models, encapsulation, and data flow.

Module 4: Physical Layer – Media types, cabling, and signal encoding.

Module 5: Number Systems – Binary, hexadecimal, and their use in networking.

Module 6: Data Link Layer – MAC addresses, Ethernet, and frame structure.

Module 7: Ethernet Switching – MAC address tables, switch forwarding, and collision domains.

Module 8: Network Layer – IPv4 and IPv6 packet structure, routing basics.

Module 9: Address Resolution – ARP and neighbor discovery.

Module 10: Basic Router Configuration – Initial router setup, interface configuration.

Module 11: IPv4 Addressing – Subnetting, VLSM, and address planning.

Module 12: IPv6 Addressing – IPv6 address types and configuration.

Module 13: ICMP – Ping and traceroute in action.

Module 14: Transport Layer – TCP and UDP, port numbers, and reliability.

Module 15: Application Layer – HTTP, DNS, DHCP, and other key protocols.

Module 16: Network Security Fundamentals – Threats, vulnerabilities, and basic security configurations.

Module 17: Build a Small Network – Capstone project integrating all skills.

Learning Objectives

Understand network fundamentals: architecture, components, and operations.
Configure switches and routers using Cisco IOS commands.
Master IP addressing, subnetting, and VLSM for both IPv4 and IPv6.
Explain how protocols like TCP/IP, Ethernet, ARP, and ICMP work.
Use Cisco Packet Tracer to simulate and troubleshoot networks.
Build and configure a small network with end-to-end connectivity.
Apply basic network security best practices.
Build a solid foundation for the CCNA certification exam.

Course Prerequisites

Technical: Basic computer literacy is required. Some familiarity with networking concepts (e.g., from Cisco's "Networking Basics" or "Introduction to Cybersecurity" courses) is helpful but not mandatory. This is an introductory course, but it is rigorous.

Language: English and multiple other languages.

Who should take this: Aspiring network engineers, IT professionals, students preparing for CCNA certification, and anyone serious about a career in networking.

User Reviews

★★★★★ Michael Zhang

"This is THE course to start your networking career. It's not easy—be prepared to put in the hours. But the content is world-class. The Packet Tracer labs are invaluable. I completed this course, then the other two CCNA courses, and passed my CCNA exam on the first try. Cannot recommend highly enough."

★★★★☆ Sarah Johnson

"Excellent curriculum. The module on subnetting is worth the whole course. My only critique is that some modules move fast; you'll need to re-watch videos and do extra practice. But that's realistic for real networking knowledge. The Cisco badge is a nice motivator."

★★★★★ Carlos Mendez – June 12, 2026

"I switched careers from teaching to IT. This course gave me the confidence and foundational knowledge to pursue networking. The hands-on labs made all the difference. I'm now working as a junior network administrator. If you're serious about networking, start here."

Based on 4,500+ ratings on Cisco NetAcad.

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💡 Final Thoughts

The CCNA is one of the most respected entry-level networking certifications in the world. And this free course—directly from Cisco—is the official starting point. It's not a casual overview. It's a serious, 70-hour commitment that will teach you real networking skills: subnetting, router configuration, switching, and troubleshooting. You'll use Packet Tracer, a fantastic simulation tool, to build and configure networks. If you're aiming for a career in IT, networking, or cybersecurity, this course (and the CCNA certification) can be transformative. It's free. The knowledge is priceless. Start your journey here.

CCNA: Introduction to Networks (Cisco) – FAQ

Is this course really free?

Yes, Cisco Networking Academy offers this course completely free. You only need a free NetAcad account. No payment required.

What's the difference between this and 'Networking Basics'?

'Networking Basics' is a short, high-level introduction (8 hours). This is the official first course of the CCNA curriculum (70 hours). It goes much deeper, includes hands-on Cisco IOS configuration, and prepares you for the CCNA certification exam.

Do I need any prior networking knowledge?

Basic computer literacy is enough. However, completing Cisco's 'Networking Basics' or 'Introduction to Cybersecurity' first can be helpful but isn't required.

How long does the course take?

The course is self-paced and takes approximately 70 hours total. Most learners complete it in 8-12 weeks studying 6-10 hours per week.

Will I receive a certificate or badge?

Yes, upon passing the final exam, you'll receive an official Cisco digital badge that you can share on LinkedIn and other platforms.

Does this course prepare me for the CCNA exam?

It's the first of three courses in the CCNA curriculum. Completing all three gives you the knowledge needed to take the CCNA 200-301 certification exam. This course alone covers about one-third of the exam topics.