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 offered by Google on Coursera. It is designed to provide a full overview of computer networking, covering fundamentals through to troubleshooting and future trends. The course is self-paced and takes approximately 21 hours and 49 minutes to complete.
This course introduces the specific tools, techniques, and topics from its module list. Learners study the Network Layer, including how data packets are routed across networks, and the Transport and Application Layers, which handle communication between software applications. The syllabus also covers Networking Services such as DNS and DHCP, and explains how devices Connect to the Internet. A dedicated section on Troubleshooting and the Future of Networking teaches practical diagnostic techniques and emerging trends in the field.
By the end of the course, a learner can perform concrete tasks such as configuring basic network settings, understanding how data flows across a network, and using standard troubleshooting commands. The skills listed include Wireless Networks, Network Administration, Data Integrity, Network Routing, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Networking Hardware, TCP/IP, Network Troubleshooting, Routing Protocols, Computer Networking, General Networking, and Network Model.
This course does not cover advanced enterprise routing or deep software-defined networking. Learners seeking those topics may prefer the Udemy course AZ-700: Designing and Implementing Azure Networking Solutions, which focuses on cloud networking architecture, or the Udemy course How does the Internet work & Networking Crash Course, which provides a faster-paced introduction for beginners. The free Introduction to IT course on Codecademy is also an option for those who want a shorter, foundational introduction before committing to a longer program.
Enroll for free on Coursera. The course offers a certificate for purchase, and eligible learners may start with a free trial.
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 7 Nov 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 7 November 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) | |
| Networking (CCNA) In Tamil - Online Course | Market Tutorialspoint | 4.7★ | $18 | 26h | 26h | View ↗ |
| How does the Internet work & Networking Crash Course |
 Udemy
|
4.7★ | Free | Free — and still gives a certificate | Start free ↗ | |
| AZ-700:Designing and Implementing Azure Networking Solutions |
Udemy
|
4.6★ | ₹479 | 33.5 hours | Most popular — 34.5K learners | View ↗ |
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.