What Is Computer Networking and How Do I Learn It?

Computer networking is the foundation of the internet and all related technologies. It allows devices, and the people who use them, to communicate with each other — whether these two devices are around the corner from one another, or across the globe.

Between firewalls, home internet networks, and wireless device connectivity, you likely use computer networking several times a day without even noticing it. This system is important for personal and professional work, and it has critical applications across virtually every major industry.

In healthcare, computer networking enables the seamless exchange of patient information through Electronic Health Records (EHR). In finance, it facilitates high-frequency trading, ensuring rapid and reliable transaction processing in stock markets. It also forms the foundation for point-of-sale systems in retail, which enhance customer service by ensuring that popular items are always in stock.

Let’s explore the basics of computer networking: what it is, why it works, and how you can find your future career through an IT Technician Bootcamp, such as with the University of Texas at Arlington - powered by QuickStart Learning.

What is Computer Networking? 

Computer networking is the practice of connecting multiple computing devices— such as computers, servers, and other hardware— to share resources, exchange data, and facilitate communication. These networks can range from small, local networks within a single building to vast, global networks that encompass the internet.

Here are a few common components of a computer networking system:

• Access points are devices that create wireless local area networks (WLANs). They allow Wi-Fi-enabled devices to connect to a wired network, providing wireless internet access in homes, offices, and public spaces.
• Clients are devices that connect to servers to access shared resources and services. These can be personal computers, laptops, smartphones, or any device that requests and receives data from a server.
• Modems (short for modulator-demodulator) convert digital data from a computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over phone lines or cable systems and vice versa. They are essential for connecting to the internet, especially in home networks.
• Routers are devices that direct data packets between different networks. They determine the most efficient path for data to travel from the source to the destination, ensuring reliable communication between devices on different networks.
• Servers are powerful computers that provide resources, services, or data to other devices (clients) on the network. They can host websites, manage emails, store files, and run applications that multiple users can access simultaneously.
• Switches are used to connect multiple devices within a single network. They manage the flow of data by forwarding it only to the specific device it is intended for, rather than broadcasting it to all connected devices, thus improving network efficiency and security.

Many computer networks also include firewalls, and security devices that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They act as barriers between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, protecting against cyber threats.

What are the Different Types of Networks? 

Computer networks come in various forms, each serving different purposes and scales. Understanding the different types of networks is important not only for passing a certification exam but for keeping your organization safe in a variety of real-life IT scenarios.

Here are a few of the most common types of computer networks:

• Campus area network (CAN): A network that spans multiple buildings within a limited geographic area, such as a university campus or a corporate campus. It connects various LANs within the campus, providing high-speed data transfer and resource sharing among different departments or buildings.
• Local area network (LAN): A network that connects devices within a limited area, such as a home, office, or building. LANs are commonly used in small businesses, educational institutions, and residential settings to connect computers, printers, and other devices. They enable resource sharing (like printers and file storage), facilitate communication (through email and messaging), and support collaborative work environments.
• Metropolitan area network (MAN): A network that covers a larger area than a LAN but is smaller than a WAN, typically encompassing a city or a large campus. It is often used to connect multiple LANs within a city, providing high-speed connectivity and shared internet access.
• Personal area network (PAN): A small network designed for personal use, typically within a range of a few meters. It connects personal devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearable devices, often using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
• Wide area network (WAN): A network that spans a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs that can be spread across cities, countries, or even continents. WANs are used by large organizations and enterprises to connect their branch offices, data centers, and remote employees. They support activities like email, file transfer, video conferencing, and centralized data storage.
• Virtual Network Computing (VNC): A graphical desktop-sharing system that uses the Remote Frame Buffer (RFB) protocol to remotely control another computer. VNC allows users to view and interact with a remote desktop environment, making it a powerful tool for remote administration, technical support, and collaborative work across different operating systems.

Computer networking is an irreplaceable part of modern business. It enables efficient communication, data sharing, and resource management. For employees who manage or secure data, computer networks also centralize data protection efforts and provide secure access to an organization’s most important information.

What are the Key Concepts in Computer Networking?

As a discipline, computer networking relies on several key concepts. These often include the addressing of devices, the protocols that enable communication, the layouts of networks, and the security measures to protect data and resources.

Let’s explore some of the most important computer networking concepts:

• IP addresses: An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique identifier assigned to each device on a network. It allows devices to locate and communicate with each other. There are two types of IP addresses (NordVPN): IPv4 and IPv6.
• Network security: Network security is crucial for protecting data, ensuring privacy, and maintaining the integrity and availability of network resources. Effective security measures help prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats.
• Network topologies: Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of how devices and connections are organized within a network. Different topologies, such as star, mesh, and bus, determine the structure and flow of data, impacting the network's performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Subnets: Subnetting is a method used to divide a larger network into smaller, more manageable sub-networks (subnets). Creating a subnet means creating a subnet mask, which determines which portion of the IP address represents the network and which part represents the host. (NordVPN)

Another important component of computer networking — network protocols — determines how data is transmitted and received across a network. They ensure that devices can communicate effectively, enabling seamless data exchange and connectivity through common languages such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP.

Career Opportunities in Computer Networking  

As the backbone of modern communication and data management, networking professionals are essential in almost every industry. The field of computer networking offers a wide variety of different career opportunities, no matter your level of experience.

Starting your career in computer networking often means taking on entry-level positions that provide a solid foundation of practical experience and knowledge. These positions can sometimes include roles like IT technician and help desk support specialists, where you can hone your skills and grow more familiar with the IT challenges that organizations face.

Here are a few skills you’ll ended for success in these roles:

• Attention to detail: Careful monitoring and maintenance of network performance and security.
• Basic networking: Understanding of IP addressing, subnetting, and common network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP).
• Customer service: Excellent communication skills to assist and support users effectively.
• Hardware navigation: Knowledge of routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment is crucial.
• Troubleshooting: The ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network issues efficiently.

Careers for qualified IT professionals are booming, despite layoffs at some of the world’s blue-chip organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for computer and IT specialist positions is expected to grow much faster than the average across all occupations through 2032. This growth will create an estimated 377,500 new positions per year for eligible IT professionals who understand concepts like computer networking.

Benefits of IT Bootcamp Training Courses

Participating in an IT bootcamp course offers several career-changing benefits. Perhaps most important, IT bootcamp programs provide a comprehensive learning path, one that upskills your abilities in some of the most important IT fields. Learn from experienced subject matter experts, who have already solved the majority of the problems you’ll face in real-world IT environments.

Unlike some traditional learning paths, IT bootcamp programs immerse learners in hands-on labs that teach the skills modern IT employers are looking for. Virtual, hands-on learning projects provide more than theoretical knowledge; they help you test and perfect your skills in controlled environments where instructors can provide live feedback.

IT bootcamp training courses also help prepare students for the world’s leading certification exams. We’ve designed our programs with these certification exams in mind, providing targeted training that aligns with exam objectives. This focused preparation helps students understand the specific topics and skills they need to master to pass their certification exams.

The UTA IT Technician Bootcamp focuses deliberately on exam preparation for the CompTIA A+ exam. In partnership with the University of Texas at Arlington, QuickStart Learning helps equip students with the tools they need to succeed in the fast-evolving world of information technology.

How Should I Choose the Right IT Training Course?

Not all IT bootcamp programs are created equal. When considering which IT program is right for you, first check to confirm that the courses cover all the necessary topics and skills required for your desired career path. Look for courses that focus on foundational concepts, advanced techniques, and practical applications of the skills you’re looking for most.

It’s also important to find a program that offers career services. Comprehensive career support services, including resume building, one-on-one mentorship,  and interview preparation, are essential for transitioning from training to employment. Look for courses that offer workshops, mock interviews, and personalized feedback to help you present yourself effectively to potential employers.

Finally, consider reviews from students who have already participated in the program you’re considering. Feedback on course content, instructor quality, and career outcomes can help you gauge the potential success of your training.

If you’re ready to take your IT career to the next level, consider QuickStart IT training through UTA for one of the best online courses on computer networking. Connect with a member of our admissions team for more information on how you can participate in an accelerated IT program and land the career you deserve.