Short course

Cisco Introduction to Networking (CCNA 1)

The Cisco Networking Academy CCNA 7.0 curriculum is for candidates who are seeking associate-level jobs in the ICT industry or hope to fulfil prerequisites in pursuit of more specialized ICT skills. ITN is the first module within the three-module CCNAv7 course.

Overview

The CCNA 7.0 curriculum provides an integrated and comprehensive coverage of networking topics including IP routing and switching fundamentals, network security and network programmability, while providing extensive opportunities for hands-on practical experience and career skills development.

The curriculum consists of three modules, with Introduction to Networking (ITN) being the first.

ITN Introduces the architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements that connect users, devices, applications and data through the Internet and across modern computer networks - including IP addressing and Ethernet fundamentals.

By the end of the course, students can build simple local area networks (LAN) that integrate IP addressing schemes, foundational network security, and perform basic configurations for routers and switches.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate and understanding of the protocols involved in modern networking communication.

  • Design and build a small LAN, planning and applying IP addressing and security mechanisms.

  • Troubleshoot and rectify faults within a given IP network.

Who would benefit?

CCNAv7 teaches comprehensive networking concepts and skills, from network applications to the protocols and services provided to those applications, which are vital skills for candidates seeking employment in the network engineering field. Learners will progress from basic networking to more complex enterprise and theoretical networking models later in the curriculum.

Course in Depth

This course runs entirely online and students are required to self-study using the Cisco online curriculum and BCU tutorial videos as per the schedule below. Online tutorial sessions via MS Teams at 1530-1630 on the dates shown below will provide an opportunity to discuss course progress and any issues. Assessment session 5 can be performed either remotely or candidates can attend MP380/381 provided space is available.

What's included?

  • Session 1: Chapters 1-4

    • Networks Today
    • Basic Switch and End User Device Configuration
    • Protocols & Models
    • Physical Layer

  • Session 2: Chapters 6-10

    • Data Link Layer
    • Ethernet
    • Network Layer
    • Address Resolution
    • Basic Router Configuration

  • Session 3: Chapters 11-13

    • IPv4 Addressing
    • IPv6 Addressing
    • ICMP

  • Session 4: Chapters 14-17

    • Transport Layer
    • Application Layer
    • Network Security Fundamentals
    • Build a Small Network

  • Session 5: Assessment

    • Theory – online Cisco multiple-choice assessment
    • Practical – network build and testing

Schedule

• Session 1: 3 Oct 2026, 15:30-16:30
• Session 2: 17 Oct 2026, 15:30-16:30
• Session 3: 7 Nov 2026, 15:30-16:30
• Session 4: 28 Nov 2026, 15:30-16:30
• Session 5: 12 Dec 2026, 15:30-16:30

Location

Room MP 380-381
Birmingham City University
Curzon Building
Cardigan Street
Birmingham
B4 7BD

Fees and enrolment

Level: Short Course or CPD

Cost: £200

If you’re interested in finding out more about this course or would like to sign up directly for our next course, please sign up today, or register your interest and we’ll be in touch with more information.