IT Academy Free Classes

Every smart device uses an operating system (OS) -- smart devices like personal computers, smartphones, game consoles, smart TVs, and the list continues. Whether the OS used is Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, or iOS, knowing how it works is a key digital skill you will need. Take this course to build your foundational knowledge for success in any IT career.

Operating Systems Basics teaches the fundamentals of operating systems. It covers basic concepts and skills needed to understand the purpose and characteristics of operating systems, the implementation of basic OS security, and how to configure mobile device network connectivity and email.

Computers are everywhere! It is because the term “computers” refers to more than just a personal computer or laptop. Your smartphone is a mini-computer. A server is a super-computer. Cars, smart TVs, your game console – they all have a computer. Having a basic understanding for these devices and how they work is critical for success in today's digital world. This course is a great starting point for any IT career.

Computer Hardware Basics explores the fundamentals of computers and mobile devices, the components that comprise them, how they work, and basic troubleshooting tools and techniques.

Deepen your understanding of how a network works, and step into the virtual lab to build your own! With Cisco Packet Tracer, you can watch how data travels across your network using Simulation Mode, or practice setting up your own device rack and cables in Physical Mode.

Once you are ready, expand your simulations to analyze network traffic, add Internet of Things (IoT) devices, integrate Python code, or practice network automation skills. New to networking? No problem. Cisco Packet Tracer enables a suite of tutored activities that give you hints along the way, if you want them. Packet Tracer Tutored Activities are currently available for select courses.

Once you have completed all three courses in the pathway, you can take the final exam to earn the pathway badge.

Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer

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Exploring Networking with Cisco Packet Tracer

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Exploring Internet of Things with Cisco Packet Tracer

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Complete the Badge by Passing the Exam

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Do you want a career where you can solve technical challenges and also make a difference by helping people? If so, a career in IT support is perfect for you! The IT support field needs smart, empathetic people to help users and keep systems running. Entry-level IT support roles, such as IT End User Support, Help Desk Support, and Computer Support Specialist, are great starting points that offer you a path into the tech industry.

This path is designed to prepare learners for entry level IT support roles. They will gain practical experience with computer hardware, popular operating systems like Windows and macOS, and network troubleshooting. This path aligns with the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) IT Support certification, validating learners’ skills for employers. With no prerequisites, it's the perfect first step for anyone looking to enter the IT field.

This pathway is made up of four mini courses and concludes in a pathway exam. It also prepares you to sit for the CCST IT Support certification exam.

Certification Alignment: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) IT Support

IT Customer Support Basics

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Operating Systems Support

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Security and Connectivity Support

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Hardware and Upgrade Support

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Complete the Badge by Passing the Pathway Exam

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Networking technology powers the Internet. Networks make it possible for us to use social media, streaming services like Netflix, ride-hailing services like Uber, online shopping through Amazon, and much more. Put simply, networks are critical for every industry, which is why demand for networking skills keeps rising. A strong foundational knowledge of networks can lead to a successful career in IT.​

This path is designed to prepare learners for entry level roles such as Network Support Technician, Entry-level Help Desk Technician, or IT Support Specialist. You will learn how networks operate, including the devices, media, and protocols that enable network communication. Develop key skills so you can perform basic troubleshooting, using effective methodologies and help desk best practices.

This pathway is made up of four mini courses and concludes in a pathway exam. It also prepares you to sit for the CCST Networking certification exam.

Certification Alignment: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking

Networking Basics

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Networking Devices and Initial Configuration

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Network Addressing and Basic Troubleshooting

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Network Support and Security

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Complete the Badge by Passing the Pathway Exam

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Cyber threats affect us all, and cybersecurity jobs continue to grow. In fact, cybersecurity failure is among the top 5 global risks according to the World Economic Forum Global Risks Report (2021). The world needs diverse, tech-savvy cyber professionals to defend against shrewd digital adversaries.​

This path is designed to prepare learners for entry level

cybersecurity positions such as Cybersecurity Technician, Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, or Tier 1 Help Desk Support roles. You will learn vital skills like threat intelligence, network security, and risk management to protect yourself and organizations from cyber attacks. If you enjoy solving puzzles, are passionate about technology, and like working in teams, the field of cybersecurity may be a great fit for you!

This pathway is made up of six mini courses and concludes in a pathway exam. It also prepares you to sit for the CCST Cybersecurity certification exam.

Certification Alignment: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity

Introduction to Cybersecurity

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Networking Basics

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Networking Devices and Initial Configuration

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Endpoint Security

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Network Defense

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Cyber Threat Management

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Complete the Badge by Passing the Pathway Exam

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The digital landscape is evolving at an unprecedented rate and cyber threats lurk around every corner. Cybersecurity resilience in the modern world cannot be just an add on - it's a necessity. Offensive security professionals like ethical hackers and penetration testers can help proactively discover unknown threats and address them before the cybercriminals do.

This course is designed to prepare you with an Ethical Hacker skillset and give you a solid understanding of offensive security. You will become proficient in the art of scoping, executing, and reporting on vulnerability assessments, while recommending mitigation strategies. Follow an engaging gamified narrative throughout the course and get lots of practice with hands-on labs inspired by real-world scenarios.

After completing this course, continue your cybersecurity career in offensive security as an ethical hacker or penetration tester. Or use this course to strengthen your defensive security knowledge. By understanding the mindset of threat actors, you will be able to more effectively implement security controls and monitor, analyze, and respond to current security threats..

• Prerequisites:
  Junior Cybersecurity Analyst Career Path, or equivalent entry-level cybersecurity knowledge
  Basic programming knowledge

The Linux Essentials course, developed and supported by Networking Academy partner NDG, teaches students the fundamentals of the Linux operating system and command line, and basic open source concepts. 

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand how Linux is used and the basics of the command line.
• Apply skills using Linux virtual machine with step-by-step and hands-on lab activities.
• Build foundational knowledge for progressively mastering Linux commands.
• Connect with the global Cisco Networking Academy community.

Students utilize a web browser to access the Linux Essentials content modules, lab exercises and virtual machines via Cisco NetAcad.com. Each learner has hands-on access to a Linux virtual machine to practice, explore, and test Linux command-line concepts.

Learn fundamental networking concepts for modern industrial architectures and practice with industrial devices in Cisco Packet Tracer.

Implementing modern networking technologies in industrial environments is crucial for enabling smart automation, facilitating real-time data-driven decision-making, and enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility.

This beginner-friendly course equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to implement and manage networking in industrial settings. You'll start by understanding the requirements of modern industrial architectures, including smart technologies and data analytics. Interactive modules cover essential networking components such as devices, media types, and common protocols used in Operational Technologies (OT). Analyze real-world scenarios to see how these elements connect and support Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) and Smart Grid Networks.

Finally, put your newfound skills to the test with 22 activities in Cisco Packet Tracer, like building a simple, simulated Industrial Automation Control Systems (IACS) network using Cisco devices, configuring a substation network, and creating a LAN (Local Area Network). Get started today and gain the job-ready skills you need to kickstart a career in OT!

Note: You should complete the Industrial Networking Essentials course before starting this course.

In modern manufacturing, Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies are at the heart of efficient, reliable, and safe operations. Factories and supply chains are becoming more connected and automated every day. Understanding how to integrate these systems within modern networks is crucial for success in this field.

This course is designed for learners who have completed Industrial Networking Essentials and want to learn more about Industrial IoT networking and manufacturing-specific Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). You'll explore the fundamentals of process automation, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) architectures, regulatory compliance, high availability networking, and time-sensitive networking.

Put your skills into practice with 2 labs and 12 activities in Cisco Packet Tracer. Experience real-world scenarios such as simulating manufacturing cell zone IACS, configuring high availability solutions, and time synchronization using the Precision Time Protocol (PTP), and programming Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) using Ladder Logic.

Note: You should complete the Industrial Networking Essentials course before starting this course.

Today's energy industry is rapidly changing. To manage energy efficiently, reliably, and safely, professionals must understand how Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Smart Grid technologies work together within modern networks.

This course is designed for learners who have completed Industrial Networking Essentials and want to learn more about Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Smart Grid technologies. You’ll explore the fundamentals of process automation, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) architectures, and regulatory compliance, as well as critical topics like high-availability networking, Precision Time Protocol (PTP), and key concepts of modern smart grids.

Put your skills into practice with a dedicated lab and 14 activities in Cisco Packet Tracer. Simulate real-world scenarios such as implementing network redundancy, synchronizing time across devices, and performing operations on a simulated smart grid network.

Note: You should complete the Industrial Networking Essentials and one of the Industrial IoT control systems courses before starting this course.

As Industrial operations become more digitized and interconnected, safeguarding critical systems from cyber threats is more important that ever. Modern factories, energy facilities, and infrastructure rely on Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)—making robust cybersecurity a foundational requirement for ensuring safe and reliable performance. Understanding how to protect these environments is essential for professionals looking to excel in the industrial sector.

This course is design for learners who have completed Industrial Networking Essentials and either Industrial IoT and Control Systems in Energy or Industrial IoT and Control Systems in Manufacturing. This course provides a solid foundation in safeguarding industrial networks and assets. You’ll start by exploring the crucial role of cybersecurity within IIoT and ICS environments. Progress through 9 engaging modules covering real-world cyberattack scenarios, threat actor analysis, and key industrial cybersecurity frameworks such as IEC 62443 and NIST SP 800-82.

Learn to use AI in your daily life, craft effective prompt chatbots, and use computer vision and machine translation.

AI chatbots are revolutionizing the way we work and learn. Millions of people worldwide use them to simplify tasks like homework and ideating, writing, editing and even career advice. 

If you are new to AI and ready to give it a try, look no further! Introduction to Modern AI is a beginner-friendly course designed to help you learn key AI concepts and get hands-on practice with AI-enabled apps. You will start with an overview of AI. Then you'll explore computer vision using a photo app and machine translation with an online translation tool. Finally, take a deep-dive into chatbots–full of tips for writing better prompts and hands-on practice with 10+ popular chatbots and AI tools, including ChatGPT, Meta AI, Gemini, Google Translate, Claude, Hugging Chat, NotebookLM and more. 

Get started today and discover how AI can make everyday tasks easier and boost your productivity!

Unlock your potential in AI with this comprehensive course from IBM SkillsBuild. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is among the hottest technologies reshaping the future of work! Here's your opportunity to build your knowledge, understand what AI can mean for your future, and visualize yourself in an AI-driven career. You'll begin by exploring AI's history, then discover how it can change the world around you. As you progress, you will delve into how AI understands language, interprets images, and learns using neural networks modeled after the human brain. You'll complete a series of simulations to build and test a machine learning model using IBM Watson Studio, then you'll learn about AI ethics and finish with tips on how to navigate the fast growing AI job market. 

Get started today and take the first step toward becoming an integral part of the future AI workforce.

This introductory course takes you inside the world of data science. You will learn the basics of data science, data analytics, and data engineering to understand how machine learning is shaping the future of business, healthcare, education, and more. Data science professionals who can provide actionable insights for data-driven decisions are in high demand all over the world.

This data analytics essentials course teaches you the fundamental tools of a data analyst. You will learn to transform, organize, and visualize data with spreadsheet tools such as Excel. You will also learn how to query data from a relational database using SQL and how to improve your data presentations using powerful business intelligence tools like Tableau. By the end of the course, you will have an analytics portfolio complete with an analysis of the popular movies dataset, showcasing your skills in Excel, SQL and Tableau.

This data analytics essentials course teaches you the fundamental tools of a data analyst. You will learn to transform, organize, and visualize data with spreadsheet tools such as Excel. You will also learn how to query data from a relational database using SQL and how to improve your data presentations using powerful business intelligence tools like Tableau. By the end of the course, you will have an analytics portfolio complete with an analysis of the popular movies dataset, showcasing your skills in Excel, SQL and Tableau.

This course covers entrepreneurship fundamentals, including the entrepreneurial perspective, identifying opportunities, and crafting your entrepreneurial story. Offering a solid foundation for anyone interested in developing entrepreneurial skills.

It is now estimated that 50% of Americans have a side hustle —even if they earn $100K¹. While entrepreneurship carries some risk, the current job market and economy no longer offer the same level of security they once did. There’s no better time than the present to bring your business idea to life! 

The 3-course entrepreneurship series follows a learning progression, building upon earlier content to help entrepreneurs develop a working knowledge of key business concepts and principles pivotal to each stage of entrepreneurship. Completion of this series can help you expand your business acumen and develop a multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving, skills transferable to any career.

Launching a Business Venture is the second course in this series, designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs like you take action and learn the critical steps needed to strategically advance a business idea from planning to launch. You will step into the shoes of an entrepreneur through immersive real-world scenarios and discover the secrets of successful business launches and the top reasons why ventures fail. This course covers a comprehensive mix of topics like Marketing Techniques and Tools for Entrepreneurs, Launching the Imperfect Business: Lean Startup, Sales and Customer Service, and more!

So, you've taken the bold leap into entrepreneurship, but are you ready for what comes next?

Managing a Business Venture, the final course in our comprehensive 3-part entrepreneurship series, guides savvy entrepreneurs like you through strategic business management and startup operational planning.

Gain practical skills in entrepreneurial finance and accounting, including creating financial statements and projections. Discover the right business structure for your venture and understand its legal, tax, and risk implications. You'll also learn the art of networking to build your dream entrepreneurial team.

Get started today and gain the skills you need to steer your business towards a sustainable future.

Learn how to tell a great story and communicate important information to flourish in your professional career.

Effective communication is an essential skill for any professional, and reports are the foundation of business communication. They deliver important information and shape business decisions. Knowing how to develop impactful reports is a superpower that can help you stand out in your career. 

Creating Compelling Reports will teach you the business value of reports, how to craft persuasive messages, and making authoring decisions that resonate. This course covers different types of reports such as emails, oral reports, and written reports. Learn how to write effective reports for free with the help of Cisco Networking Academy.

A course that teaches the English language in a specific IT context at the “B2” proficiency level which is a basic requirement for employment use. This is the first of two courses that together teach English in the context of IT. The course focuses on terminology and phrases used in the industry, covering grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening exercises to equip you with the English language skills valued in IT. Developed in collaboration with OpenEDG, the English for IT series is targeted for learners with at least B1-level English proficiency (lower intermediate) and is built to take you up to B2 proficiency. By completing the courses, you will develop B2-level English proficiency. Get started on your journey to develop your English language skills today.

A course that teaches the English language in a specific IT context at the “B2” proficiency level which is a basic requirement for employment use.This is the second of two courses that together teach English in the context of IT. The course focuses on terminology and phrases used in the industry, covering grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening exercises to equip you with the English language skills valued in IT. Developed in collaboration with OpenEDG, the English for IT series is targeted for learners with at least B1-level English proficiency (lower intermediate) and is built to take you up to B2 proficiency. By completing the courses, you will develop B2-level English proficiency. Gain the confidence to communicate effectively with colleagues, collaborate on impactful projects, and grow in your career.