Advanced Networking, Virtualization, and Security

About this course

Updated in May 2025. This course now features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Take your networking expertise to the next level with this in-depth course on advanced networking, virtualization, and security. Gain mastery over IPv6, WAN technologies, wireless networking, and virtualization, ensuring you're equipped to meet the challenges of modern IT infrastructures. Explore critical topics like IPv6 deployment, tunneling, and network operations while diving into cutting-edge wireless standards, virtualization basics, and enterprise-level cloud computing. The course begins with foundational concepts, such as IPv6 addressing and WAN connectivity, progressing into practical tools like VPNs and remote desktop solutions. Wireless networking modules explore PoE, wireless threats, and enterprise configurations, while virtualization and cloud computing lessons introduce essential skills for deploying virtual machines and managing cloud services. Further, you'll develop expertise in protecting networks, mastering defense in depth, password security, malware prevention, and firewall configuration. Modules on data centers and IoT integration expand your understanding of modern IT environments, while network operations and monitoring ensure you're ready to manage complex systems efficiently. Perfect for network administrators, IT professionals, and aspiring cybersecurity specialists, this course balances theory and hands-on application. A solid understanding of networking fundamentals is recommended, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced learners.

Course objectives

• develop advanced skills in networking and security
• build practical tools and techniques for modern IT infrastructures
• prepare for roles as network administrators or cybersecurity specialists