Cisco Networking Academy · Skill Badge · Foundational
Cisco Networking Academy: Networking Basics
Crydd Score 83
Demand Stable
Career Value Moderate
Recognition Moderate
NetAcad Networking at a glance
- Provider
- Cisco Networking Academy
- Credential type
- Skill Badge
- Exam required
- No — course/project based
- Category
- Networking
- Level
- Foundational
- Cost
- Free
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Time to earn
- About 22 hours of coursework
- Validity
- Does not expire
- Format
- Self-paced course with 13 labs, checkpoint exams and a final exam; digital badge on completion
- Prerequisites
- None
What is NetAcad Networking?
Cisco Networking Academy's free networking course, about 22 hours: network types and components, wireless, building a home network, IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, DHCP, routing between networks, TCP and UDP, and testing tools, with 13 labs, checkpoint exams and a final exam.
Skills it covers
- Network fundamentals
- IP basics
- Home and small-office networking
Is NetAcad Networking worth it? The Crydd Verdict
CS 83Choose it if
You are new to networking and want a free, hands-on introduction before the CCNA or Network+.
Consider alternatives if
You are ready for a certification employers ask for: CompTIA Network+ or Cisco's CCNA.
Why we say so
It teaches the fundamentals every IT role touches, free and from the company behind much of networking education; the badge itself is a learning marker.
Market demand
Networking fundamentals are expected in support and infrastructure roles; hiring filters look for Network+ or the CCNA rather than this course.
Where NetAcad Networking takes you
- Network Engineer
- IT Support Specialist
Career roadmaps show where this certification fits in each path. See the roadmaps.
Related certifications
Curated connections from the catalog — each labelled with how it relates to NetAcad Networking, so you know why it’s here.
Careers NetAcad Networking leads to
The professional paths this certification genuinely serves — browse every relevant credential for each.
A sensible order
Where NetAcad Networking sits on the path — build up, then step on.
Recommended next after NetAcad Networking
A step up on a shared path
