Networking Courses
Cloud, security and automation all run on top of networks — which is why networking skills stay in demand even as the tools change. Build them with Cisco CCNA and CCNP or vendor-neutral CompTIA Network+, online and at your own pace.
Online Networking Training
Choose Your Networking Course
New to networking? Start with CCNA or the vendor-neutral Network+. Already working in it? Step up to CCNP, or take the full Cisco pathway as a bundle.
Associate · Cisco
Cisco CCNA
The certification that gets you into networking. CCNA covers fundamentals, IP connectivity, security basics and automation — the skills behind IT support and junior network roles.
Foundation · vendor-neutral
CompTIA Network+
Vendor-neutral networking foundations — how networks are designed, secured and troubleshot, whatever kit they run on. A solid first step before going Cisco-specific.
Professional · Cisco
Cisco CCNP
The next step for working network professionals — enterprise networking, security and infrastructure at the level that moves you into senior engineer roles.
Bundle · Cisco
Cisco CCNA & CCNP
The complete Cisco pathway in one bundle — CCNA then CCNP — with full preparation for all three official exams, at the best value.
Why networking still matters
Every cloud platform, every security tool and every automated system sits on top of a network. That’s why networking is one of the more durable IT skills: the kit and the buzzwords change, but someone still has to make the traffic flow and keep it secure. Get the fundamentals right and you’ve got a base that stays relevant for the rest of your career.
Network+ or CCNA — where to start?
People often weigh the two. CompTIA Network+ is vendor-neutral and a touch broader at an introductory level; Cisco CCNA is Cisco-specific and goes deeper into real configuration. Our take: if you want the concepts first, do Network+ then CCNA; if you already know you’re heading for a Cisco environment, start with CCNA directly — it’s the certification most entry-level networking adverts name.
The networking path
Networking has a clear ladder, and your certifications follow it:
- Foundations — Network+ or CCNA for your first networking role
- Professional — CCNP for enterprise networking and senior engineer roles
- The full route — the CCNA & CCNP bundle takes you the whole way at the best value
How the exams work
Your course covers the training and full exam preparation; the official exam is sat separately. Cisco exams go through Pearson VUE, with the fee paid directly to Cisco. The CompTIA Network+ exam is also sat separately, and you can add it as an option at checkout. Keeping the exam separate means you only pay the vendor’s fee when you’re ready to sit.
Careers in networking
These courses point towards roles such as network technician, network administrator and network engineer, with CCNP opening the door to senior engineer and infrastructure positions. Networking also pairs well with cloud and security — many engineers add those skills next as their careers grow.
Related courses
- Cisco courses — CCNA, CCNP and the full Cisco pathway
- CompTIA courses — Network+, Security+, A+ and more
- All IT courses
Need advice?
Not sure whether to start with CCNA or Network+? Our team can map a route with you.
020 3130 4909Common questions
Networking Courses — Frequently Asked Questions
Get started
Ready to build your networking career?
Start with CCNA or Network+ and progress to CCNP. Recognised certifications, full exam preparation, studied at your pace.
Career Smarter is a United Kingdom Registered Learning Provider, reference 10092087. Cisco® and CCNA®/CCNP® are trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. CompTIA® is a registered trademark of CompTIA, Inc.