Free
Course

CompTIA A+ Core 1: Networking Fundamentals

Learn computer networking essentials like TCP/UDP, PoE, SDN, network devices, DSL modems and more, providing a comprehensive base for CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam prep.

  • Skill level

    Beginner
  • Time to complete

    Approx. 2 hours
  • Certificate of completion

    Yes
  • Prerequisites

    None

About this course

In order for computers to be able to exchange data and share resources with each other, they must be interconnected in some fashion. This is referred to as computer networking. Explore computer networking fundamentals, including TCP and user datagram protocol (UDP) ports, and review common networking hardware devices. Examine the differences between hubs and bridges. Discover when to use a network switch and how a router can protect a system. Explore key differences between access points, repeaters, and extenders, as well as cable and DSL modems. Learn about the benefits of Power over Ethernet (PoE) and compare it with Ethernet over Power, which uses common electrical wiring to convey Ethernet connectivity. Lastly, take a look at the features of network interface cards (NIC), optical network terminal (ONT), and software-defined networking (SDN) technologies. This course will prepare you for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) certification exam.

Learning objectives

  • Discover the key concepts covered in this course
  • Identify well-known ports and protocols
  • List the features of tcp and udp
Meet the creator of the course
Aaron Sampson
IT Trainer/Consultant
Aaron specializes in certification-level training, consulting, and production of instructional content. He began his IT career as an instructor pursuing his Microsoft certifications, and to this day, he continues to design, implement, and train professionals in the realm of Microsoft applications and services. With over 25 years of experience, Aaron has delivered training in a vast array of technologies within Microsoft’s back-end products, such as SQL Server, Exchange Server, and System Center. More recently, he has expanded into cloud solutions that include Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365. Aaron’s credentials include Microsoft Certified Trainer, Solutions Associate, IT Professional, and Solutions Expert. When he’s not at work, you can find Aaron on the golf course or playing his guitar.

How it works

Expert-led videos

In this course, you'll watch videos created by industry-leading experts for some of the biggest tech companies in the world. They'll cover key concepts, go through sample applications, prepare you for industry certifications, and more. Watch on any device — whenever and wherever you want — to learn at your own pace.

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The TCP Three-Way Handshake Explained  

Codecademy Team
Oct 2, 2023

The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the most widely used internet connectivity protocol for enabling communication of data between computers across a computer network.  

TCP/IP, paired with Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), has revolutionized the way we do everyday things, allowing for information to be passed nearly instantaneously around the world. The internet as we know it (mostly in web browsers) is possible via the network connection created by something called the TCP three-way handshake. We go over how it all works in-depth in our free course Introduction to IT, but here’s an overview of the basics (which you’ll need to know if you want to get into web development).

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