The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking
This course is designed to provide a full overview of computer networking.
The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking is a beginner-level online course from Coursera in Networking. It is structured in 6 modules, over 21h 49m. Learners rate it 4.7/5 from 52.7K ratings on Coursera.
Part of our Networking courses collection, where we compare it against 11 other courses.
Course highlights
| Provider | Coursera |
| Duration | 21h 49m |
| Level | Beginner |
| Mode | Self-paced |
| Language | English |
| Certificate | Yes — shareable certificate |
| Rating | 4.7★ (52.7K reviews) |
| Price | Check price |
About this course
The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking is a beginner-level course on Coursera offered by Google. It runs 21 hours and 49 minutes of self-paced study in English. A certificate is available for purchase after completion.
This course introduces the core concepts of how computer networks work. The syllabus moves from networking fundamentals through the network layer, then the transport and application layers. Specific topics include IP addressing, routing, the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), and TCP/IP. Learners also study wireless networks, network hardware, and basic network troubleshooting techniques.
By the end, a learner can describe how data moves across a network, configure basic network settings, and identify common connectivity problems. The course is built for people with no prior networking experience who want a practical overview.
This course does not cover advanced routing protocols, software-defined networking, or network security in depth. Learners who need those topics may prefer the Udemy alternative AZ-700: Designing and Implementing Azure Networking Solutions, which focuses on cloud networking at a professional level.
Free options include the Udemy course Introduction to networking for complete beginners and the Codecademy Introduction to IT short course. Both are self-paced and carry a certificate, though the Codecademy course is shorter at three hours and priced in USD.
Level and time commitment
Skills you’ll gain
What this course covers
6 modulesThe 6-part outline Coursera publishes for this course, across 21h 49m.
Module 1 · Introduction to Networking
Module 2 · The Network Layer
Module 3 · The Transport and Application Layers
Module 4 · Networking Services
Module 5 · Connecting to the Internet
Module 6 · Troubleshooting and the Future of Networking
What learners rate it
Rated 4.7/5 by 52.7K learners on Coursera (checked 10 Aug 2026).
This rating is collected by Coursera from its own enrolled learners. We reproduce it as reported and do not accept paid or incentivised reviews. See it on Coursera →
Compiled by the CoursesGlobal editorial desk. Fees, ratings, duration and certificate details for the 1 course shown are read directly from Coursera course pages — we never estimate a price or a rating. Last verified 10 August 2026.
How we compare and rank courses · Our review policy · Affiliate disclosure
Compare with alternatives
Same topic, different trade-offs — here's who runs each one and what it's best at.
| Course | Provider | Rating | Price | Duration | Why pick this one |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking This |
 Coursera
|
4.7★ | Check price | 21h 49m | Highest rated (4.7★ from 52.7K reviews) |
| How does the Internet work & Networking Crash Course |
 Udemy
|
4.7★ | Free | Free — certificate included | |
| AZ-700:Designing and Implementing Azure Networking Solutions |
Udemy
|
4.6★ | Free | Free — and still gives a certificate | |
| CCNA Networking Interview Questions and Answers - Get a JOB |
Udemy
|
4.6★ | Free | Free — certificate included |
Common questions
How much does The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking cost?
Coursera does not publish a price we can read on the course page, so we do not show one. Check the fee on the provider site — we would rather say nothing than quote a number we did not collect.
Does The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking come with a certificate?
Yes — Coursera lists a certificate on completion. It is a course certificate, not a formal qualification or university credit.
How long does The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking take?
Coursera lists it at 21h 49m. It is self-paced, so that is the volume of material rather than a deadline — how long it actually takes depends on the hours you put in each week.
Is The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking suitable for beginners?
Yes. Coursera lists it at Beginner level, so no prior experience in the subject is assumed.
What does The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking cover?
It is organised into 6 modules, starting with Introduction to Networking and going on to The Network Layer, The Transport and Application Layers, Networking Services, Connecting to the Internet, among others. The full outline is on this page.