What I Learned from Cisco Networking Academy: My First Steps into Networking 🌐💡

After completing TryHackMe’s Pre-Security path, I knew that understanding networking was going to be essential for my cybersecurity journey. So, I decided to dive into the Cisco Networking Academy, one of the most respected and beginner-friendly programs for learning networking fundamentals.

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Why Networking Matters in Cybersecurity

Networking is the backbone of the internet and every digital communication. Without a solid grasp of how networks operate — from IP addressing to protocols — cybersecurity feels like trying to solve puzzles blindfolded.

Cisco Networking Academy offered me a clear, structured path to learn:

• How devices communicate across networks 📡

• What IP addresses, subnets, and routing really mean 🛣️

• The role of protocols like TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and HTTP 📬

• Basics of network security such as firewalls and VPNs 🔒

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What I Enjoyed Most

Hands-On Labs and Simulations 🖥️⚙️

Cisco’s interactive Packet Tracer tool was a game changer. It let me build virtual networks, configure routers and switches, and see networking concepts come alive. Instead of just reading theory, I got to experiment and learn by doing — which really cemented my understanding.

Clear, Beginner-Friendly Content 🎓✨

The course breaks down complex topics into manageable lessons. Each module builds on the last, so you never feel overwhelmed. Plus, the quizzes and exercises helped reinforce the knowledge right away.

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Challenges I Faced

Networking terminology can be intimidating at first. Words like “subnet mask,” “MAC address,” and “OSI model” felt like a foreign language. But with consistent practice and revisiting lessons, I began to see the big picture.

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How This Helps Me in Cybersecurity

Every cyber attack happens over a network. Knowing how data travels and how networks are structured helps me understand:

• How attackers exploit network vulnerabilities

• How to defend against attacks like spoofing, sniffing, and DDoS

• The importance of secure network design

This foundational knowledge gives me confidence as I continue my journey into more advanced cybersecurity topics.

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What’s Next for Me

I’m now combining what I learned from Cisco Networking Academy with hands-on practice on platforms like TryHackMe building real skills in network security and monitoring.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re starting out like me, I highly recommend the Cisco Networking Academy for anyone wanting to master networking basics. It’s a solid foundation that will support everything you do in cybersecurity.

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Thanks for reading! If you’re also learning networking or have tips on resources, I’d love to hear about them. Drop a comment or connect with me and let’s learn together!

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Stay tuned for my next post where I dive deeper into cybersecurity fundamentals and hands-on challenges! 🚀🔐