Site icon Job Lesh

Networking & Cybersecurity: Complete Roadmap

Spread the love

This roadmap is designed for individuals who want to start with networking and progress into cybersecurity. The goal is to create a strong foundational knowledge of networking concepts before transitioning into security. Every topic is explained in detail to provide clarity and actionable steps.

Networking & Cybersecurity: Complete Roadmap

Phase 1: Master Networking Basics (1–2 Months)

What This Means

Key Areas of Focus

  1. How Networks Operate:
    • Learn how devices communicate with each other using protocols, which are predefined rules for data exchange.
    • Understand the structure and purpose of local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
  2. Data Flow Between Devices:
    • Explore how data is divided into packets, transmitted, and reassembled on the receiving end.
    • Study routing and switching principles to understand how data finds its way to the correct destination.
  3. Network Layers:
    • Networks operate in layers (e.g., OSI and TCP/IP models) to simplify communication. Each layer has specific tasks:
      • Physical Layer: Transmits raw data as electrical signals or light.
      • Transport Layer: Ensures data is delivered error-free, in order, and without duplication.
      • Application Layer: Deals with user applications like email, web browsers, or FTP clients.

Why This Objective is Crucial

Practical Example

Key Concepts to Learn

Understanding the OSI Model and TCP/IP Models

OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection Model)

The OSI model is a conceptual framework that divides the process of network communication into seven layers. Each layer has a specific function, and together they ensure seamless communication across devices and networks.


7 Layers of the OSI Model
  1. Physical Layer (Layer 1)
    • Purpose: Handles the transmission of raw data (bits) over a physical medium like cables or radio waves.
    • Examples: Ethernet cables, fiber optics, Wi-Fi signals.
  2. Data Link Layer (Layer 2)
    • Purpose: Provides error detection and correction for data transmitted over the physical layer. It ensures frames are properly sent and received.
    • Examples: MAC addresses, Ethernet, Wi-Fi.
  3. Network Layer (Layer 3)
    • Purpose: Handles logical addressing (IP addresses) and routes data packets across networks.
    • Examples: IP, ICMP (Ping).
  4. Transport Layer (Layer 4)
    • Purpose: Ensures reliable data transfer with error recovery and flow control. Splits data into segments.
    • Examples: TCP (reliable), UDP (fast but less reliable).
  5. Session Layer (Layer 5)
    • Purpose: Manages sessions (dialogues) between devices. It establishes, maintains, and terminates connections.
    • Examples: NFS, SQL sessions.
  6. Presentation Layer (Layer 6)
    • Purpose: Translates data formats between applications (e.g., encryption, compression, converting between formats like JPEG to binary).
    • Examples: SSL/TLS encryption.
  7. Application Layer (Layer 7)
    • Purpose: The closest layer to the user; it provides network services to applications.
    • Examples: HTTP, FTP, DNS.

TCP/IP Model

The TCP/IP model is simpler and more practical, focusing on real-world networking. It’s divided into four layers, combining some of the OSI model’s layers for efficiency.


4 Layers of the TCP/IP Model
  1. Network Interface Layer
    • Purpose: Handles physical hardware connections and data transfer over a local network.
    • Includes: OSI’s Physical and Data Link layers.
    • Examples: Ethernet, ARP (Address Resolution Protocol).
  2. Internet Layer
    • Purpose: Manages logical addressing, routing, and packet forwarding.
    • Includes: OSI’s Network layer.
    • Examples: IP, ICMP.
  3. Transport Layer
    • Purpose: Provides reliable (or fast but unreliable) delivery of data between applications.
    • Includes: OSI’s Transport layer.
    • Examples: TCP, UDP.
  4. Application Layer
    • Purpose: Offers application-level services and directly interacts with user applications.
    • Includes: OSI’s Session, Presentation, and Application layers.
    • Examples: HTTP, FTP, DNS, SMTP.

Comparison of OSI vs. TCP/IP Models
AspectOSI ModelTCP/IP Model
Number of Layers7 Layers4 Layers
Design FocusTheoretical and detailedPractical and implementation-focused
Session/PresentationSeparate layersCombined into the Application layer
Widely Used ProtocolsExamples like Ethernet, TCP, IPExamples like HTTP, FTP, DNS

Why This Matters in Networking

By mastering both models, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how networks function, preparing you for configuring systems, diagnosing issues, and securing networks against attacks.

IP Addressing:

Understanding IP Addressing

IP (Internet Protocol) addressing is the system used to identify devices on a network. Each device is assigned a unique address to facilitate communication. There are two types of IP addressing systems: IPv4 and IPv6.


1. IPv4 Addressing

IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is the most widely used addressing system.

Structure

Example

192.168.1.1

Classes of IPv4 Addresses

IPv4 addresses are categorized into classes, based on the range of the first octet:

ClassRangePurpose
A0–127Large networks (e.g., ISPs, corporations).
B128–191Medium-sized networks (e.g., universities).
C192–223Small networks (e.g., home, small business).
D224–239Multicast groups.
E240–255Reserved for experimental use.

IPv4 Limitations


2. IPv6 Addressing

IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) was introduced to address the limitations of IPv4 and provide a much larger address space.

Structure

Example

2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334

Advantages of IPv6

  1. Massive Address Space: Can support 340 undecillion (3.4 x 10³⁸) unique addresses.
  2. Simplified Addressing: Includes built-in features like automatic configuration and simplified routing.
  3. Enhanced Security: Native support for IPsec (encryption and authentication).

Transition Mechanisms

Since most systems still use IPv4, techniques like dual stacking (running IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously) and tunneling are used during the transition to IPv6.


Comparison of IPv4 and IPv6
FeatureIPv4IPv6
Address Length32-bit128-bit
Address FormatDotted-decimal (e.g., 192.168.1.1)Hexadecimal with colons (e.g., 2001:db8::1)
Address Space~4.3 billion addresses~340 undecillion addresses
SecurityOptional IPsecMandatory IPsec
ConfigurationManual or DHCPAutomatic or DHCPv6

Why IP Addressing is Crucial
Practice Ideas
  1. Use Cisco Packet Tracer to set up a network and assign IPv4 and IPv6 addresses to devices.
  2. Learn and practice subnetting (for IPv4).
  3. Experiment with IPv6 configurations and explore its features like auto-configuration.

By mastering IP addressing, you’ll build a strong base for understanding networking, routing, and eventually securing networks.

Subnetting:

Subnetting is a critical concept in networking that involves dividing a large network into smaller, manageable subnetworks (subnets). This helps optimize resource utilization, enhance security, and improve performance.


Why Subnetting is Important
  1. Efficient IP Usage: Prevents wastage of IP addresses by allocating only the required number of addresses to each subnet.
  2. Improved Network Performance: Reduces congestion by segmenting traffic within smaller subnets.
  3. Enhanced Security: Isolates sensitive network areas by creating boundaries between subnets.
  4. Simplified Management: Makes troubleshooting and network administration easier.

Key Concepts in Subnetting

1. IP Address Classes and Default Masks

IP addresses are divided into classes with default subnet masks that define the network and host portions.

ClassAddress RangeDefault Subnet Mask
A0.0.0.0 – 127.255.255.255255.0.0.0 (/8)
B128.0.0.0 – 191.255.255.255255.255.0.0 (/16)
C192.0.0.0 – 223.255.255.255255.255.255.0 (/24)

2. Subnet Masks

A subnet mask determines which part of an IP address identifies the network and which part identifies the host.


3. CIDR Notation

CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing) simplifies subnet masks by using a slash (/) followed by the number of bits used for the network.


4. Subnet Calculation

When subnetting, bits are borrowed from the host portion of the IP address to create more networks.


Practical Example of Subnetting

Scenario

You need to divide the network 192.168.1.0/24 into 4 equal subnets.

Solution

  1. Borrow Bits: Borrow 2 bits from the host portion to create 4 subnets.
    • New subnet mask: /26 or 255.255.255.192.
  2. Subnets:
    • Subnet 1: 192.168.1.0/26 → Hosts: 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.62.
    • Subnet 2: 192.168.1.64/26 → Hosts: 192.168.1.65 to 192.168.1.126.
    • Subnet 3: 192.168.1.128/26 → Hosts: 192.168.1.129 to 192.168.1.190.
    • Subnet 4: 192.168.1.192/26 → Hosts: 192.168.1.193 to 192.168.1.254.

Tools for Learning Subnetting
  1. Subnet Calculators:
  2. Cisco Packet Tracer:
    • Simulate network configurations to visualize how subnets work.
    • Assign subnet masks to devices and test connectivity.
  3. Learning Platforms:
    • Follow Urdu IT Academy for step-by-step tutorials in your preferred language.

Practice Exercises
  1. Divide 10.0.0.0/16 into 8 subnets.
  2. Calculate the subnet mask required to create 16 subnets from 192.168.0.0/24.
  3. Use Cisco Packet Tracer to configure a network with at least 3 subnets and test their connectivity.

Switching and Routing Basics:

Switching and Routing Basics: Core Concepts of Network Communication

Switching and routing are fundamental concepts in networking that define how data is transferred within and between networks. Understanding these concepts is critical for designing and managing efficient and secure networks.


Switching (Layer 2 of OSI Model)

Definition:
Switching involves transferring data packets within the same network, typically within a LAN (Local Area Network). Switches operate at Layer 2 of the OSI Model and use MAC (Media Access Control) addresses to forward data.

Key Features:


Types of Switching
  1. Circuit Switching: A dedicated communication path is established between devices (e.g., telephone networks).
  2. Packet Switching: Data is divided into packets and forwarded based on the destination address (e.g., internet communication).
  3. Message Switching: Entire messages are sent to intermediate devices and then forwarded (less common in modern networks).

Switching Techniques in Networking
  1. Store-and-Forward Switching:
    • Switch stores the entire data packet, checks for errors, and then forwards it.
    • Use Case: High reliability in data transmission.
  2. Cut-Through Switching:
    • Switch forwards the packet as soon as the destination MAC address is read.
    • Use Case: Low latency applications.
  3. Fragment-Free Switching:
    • Switch reads the first 64 bytes to ensure no collision occurred before forwarding.
    • Use Case: Balances speed and reliability.

Routing (Layer 3 of OSI Model)

Definition:
Routing involves transferring data between different networks. Routers operate at Layer 3 of the OSI Model and use IP addresses to forward data packets.

Key Features:


Routing Techniques
  1. Static Routing:
    • Manually configured routes by the network administrator.
    • Advantages: Simple and secure for small networks.
    • Disadvantages: Difficult to manage in large networks.
  2. Dynamic Routing:
    • Routes are automatically updated using routing protocols (e.g., RIP, OSPF, BGP).
    • Advantages: Scalable and adaptable.
    • Disadvantages: More complex to configure and troubleshoot.

Common Routing Protocols
  1. RIP (Routing Information Protocol):
    • Distance-vector protocol that uses hop count as a metric.
    • Best for small, simple networks.
  2. OSPF (Open Shortest Path First):
    • Link-state protocol that calculates the shortest path.
    • Preferred for larger and more complex networks.
  3. BGP (Border Gateway Protocol):
    • Used for routing between different autonomous systems (e.g., ISPs).
    • Essential for internet-level routing.

Comparison of Switching and Routing
AspectSwitchingRouting
LayerLayer 2 (Data Link Layer)Layer 3 (Network Layer)
AddressingMAC AddressIP Address
ScopeWithin a single network (LAN)Between different networks
Device UsedSwitchRouter
SpeedFaster (doesn’t analyze IP data)Slower (analyzes IP and selects path)

Practical Applications

Switching Example

Routing Example


Hands-On Practice
  1. In Cisco Packet Tracer:
    • Switch Configuration:
      • Connect multiple devices to a switch.
      • Assign IP addresses to each device.
      • Test connectivity with the ping command.
    • Router Configuration:
      • Connect two switches using a router.
      • Configure IP addresses for the router interfaces.
      • Set up static routes to enable communication between networks.
  2. Commands to Learn:
    • Switch: show mac address-table, vlan database.
    • Router: show ip route, ip route.

By mastering switching and routing basics, you’ll understand the foundation of how data is transferred within and between networks. This knowledge is essential for tackling advanced networking and cybersecurity challenges.

Common Protocols:

Common Protocols: Essential Tools for Network Communication

Protocols are standardized sets of rules that dictate how data is transmitted and received across networks. They ensure seamless communication between devices by defining processes for data exchange. Here’s an overview of some key networking protocols:


1. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

Purpose: Enables communication between web browsers and web servers.

Characteristics:


2. HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)

Purpose: Secure version of HTTP, ensuring encrypted communication between browser and server.

Characteristics:


3. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

Purpose: Transfers files between a client and a server.

Characteristics:


4. DNS (Domain Name System)

Purpose: Resolves domain names (e.g., www.google.com) into IP addresses (e.g., 142.250.190.78).

Characteristics:


5. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

Purpose: Automatically assigns IP addresses and other network configuration details to devices on a network.

Characteristics:


6. ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)

Purpose: Diagnoses network connectivity issues and errors.

Characteristics:


Comparison of Protocols
ProtocolPurposePortSecurityExample Use Case
HTTPWeb communication80NoneViewing web pages.
HTTPSSecure web communication443EncryptedOnline banking or shopping.
FTPFile transfer21, 20LimitedUploading website files to a web server.
DNSDomain name resolution53NoneTranslating www.example.com to an IP.
DHCPDynamic IP allocation67, 68NoneAssigning IPs to devices on a LAN.
ICMPNetwork troubleshootingN/ANoneTesting connectivity with ping.

Hands-On Practice
  1. Using ping (ICMP):
    • Open a terminal/command prompt.
    • Test connectivity:
    • ping google.com
  2. Using Cisco Packet Tracer:
    • Create a small network with devices and a DNS server.
    • Simulate a web browsing scenario using HTTP and HTTPS.
    • Configure a DHCP server to automatically assign IP addresses.
  3. File Transfer with FTP:
    • Set up an FTP server in Packet Tracer or a virtual lab.
    • Use an FTP client to upload and download files.

By mastering these common protocols, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how networks function and prepare yourself for more advanced concepts in networking and cybersecurity.


Action Plan

Study Resources:


1. Study Resources

a. Free Tutorials on Urdu IT Academy

Why It’s Useful:

How to Use:

b. Read “Networking Basics” Guides

Why It’s Useful:

Where to Find:

Simulations:

a. Install Cisco Packet Tracer for Free

Why It’s Useful:

How to Install:

  1. Go to Cisco Networking Academy’s website.
  2. Sign up for a free account.
  3. Download and install the tool on your computer.
b. Create Simple LAN Setups (2–4 Devices)

Why It’s Useful:

Example Setup:

Practical Exercises:

a. Set Up a Network in Packet Tracer

Why It’s Useful:

Steps:

  1. Drag and drop devices (e.g., PCs, switches, routers).
  2. Connect devices using appropriate cables.
  3. Configure IP addresses for each device.
b. Test Connectivity Using Commands

Why It’s Useful:

Commands to Try:

bash

Copy code

ping 192.168.1.2

c. Configure IP Addresses Manually

Why It’s Useful:

Steps:

  1. Open the device’s interface in Packet Tracer.
  2. Assign an IP address and subnet mask:
    • Example for PC1:
      • IP Address: 192.168.1.2
      • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
    • Example for PC2:
      • IP Address: 192.168.1.3
      • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
  3. Save settings and verify connectivity with a ping command.

Hands-On Learning Workflow

Start Small:
  1. Begin with 2 devices connected to a switch.
  2. Test basic communication using ping.
Incrementally Increase Complexity:
  1. Add more devices and a router.
  2. Explore VLANs and subnetting as you advance.
  3. Combine Theory and Practice:
    • After learning a concept (e.g., subnetting), immediately simulate it in Packet Tracer.
    • Solve practice exercises to reinforce understanding.

By following this structured approach, you’ll develop a solid grasp of networking concepts and practical skills, laying the foundation for more advanced studies in networking and cybersecurity.

Output:


Phase 2: Dive Deeper into Advanced Networking (3–4 Months)

Key Concepts to Learn

VLANs and Inter-VLAN Routing:

What is a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)?

A VLAN is a method of logically segmenting a single physical network into multiple smaller networks. Each VLAN acts as its own separate network, isolating traffic to enhance security and performance.

Key Points about VLANs:

Example Scenario:


Inter-VLAN Routing

Inter-VLAN routing allows devices on different VLANs to communicate. This is achieved using a Layer 3 device like a router or a Layer 3 switch.

Key Points about Inter-VLAN Routing:


How VLANs and Inter-VLAN Routing Work

VLAN Setup

  1. Create VLANs:
    • Define VLANs on the switch.
    • Switch(config)# vlan 10 
    • Switch(config-vlan)# name HR 
    • Switch(config)# vlan 20 
    • Switch(config-vlan)# name IT 
  2. Assign Ports:
    • Assign switch ports to specific VLANs.
    • Switch(config)# interface fastethernet 0/1 
    • Switch(config-if)# switchport mode access 
    • Switch(config-if)# switchport access vlan 10 

Inter-VLAN Routing (Router-on-a-Stick)
  1. Configure Subinterfaces on the Router:
    • Use one physical interface to handle multiple VLANs.
    • Router(config)# interface gigabitEthernet 0/0.10 
    • Router(config-subif)# encapsulation dot1Q 10 
    • Router(config-subif)# ip address 192.168.10.1 255.255.255.0 
    • Repeat for other VLANs (e.g., VLAN 20).
  2. Set Default Gateways for VLANs:
    • Devices in each VLAN should use the router’s subinterface IP as their gateway.

Inter-VLAN Routing (Layer 3 Switch)
  1. Enable IP Routing:
    • Turn on routing capabilities on the switch.
    • Switch(config)# ip routing 
  2. Assign VLAN Interfaces:
    • Create virtual interfaces (SVIs) for each VLAN.
    • Switch(config)# interface vlan 10 
    • Switch(config-if)# ip address 192.168.10.1 255.255.255.0 
    • Switch(config)# no shutdown 

Practice in Cisco Packet Tracer
  1. Setup:
    • Use a switch, router, and several PCs.
    • Configure VLANs on the switch and assign ports.
  2. Simulate Communication:
    • Test communication within a VLAN.
    • Configure inter-VLAN routing and test communication between VLANs.
  3. Troubleshoot:
    • Verify VLAN configuration with show vlan brief.
    • Check routing tables with show ip route.

Benefits of Mastering VLANs and Inter-VLAN Routing

By practicing VLANs and inter-VLAN routing, you’ll build critical skills for both networking and cybersecurity roles. Let me know if you’d like additional exercises or a step-by-step Packet Tracer lab!

Access Control Lists (ACLs):

What Are Access Control Lists (ACLs)?

An Access Control List (ACL) is a set of rules applied to network devices (like routers or firewalls) to control incoming and outgoing traffic. These rules define whether specific traffic is allowed or denied based on criteria like IP address, protocol, or port number.


Why Are ACLs Important?

Types of ACLs
  1. Standard ACLs:
    • Filter traffic based on the source IP address.
    • Simpler and applied closer to the destination.
    • Example: Block traffic from a specific host (192.168.1.5).
  2. Extended ACLs:
    • Filter traffic based on source and destination IP addresses, protocols, and port numbers.
    • More granular control, applied closer to the source.
    • Example: Allow only HTTP traffic (port 80) from 192.168.1.0 to 10.0.0.0.

How ACLs Work
  1. Defining Rules:
    • Each rule specifies traffic to permit or deny.
    • Rules are processed sequentially from top to bottom.
  2. Implicit Deny:
    • If no rule matches, the traffic is denied by default.

Creating and Applying ACLs

Standard ACL Configuration

  1. Define the ACL:
  2. Router(config)# access-list 1 deny 192.168.1.5 
  3. Router(config)# access-list 1 permit any 
  4. Apply the ACL to an Interface:
    • Inbound or outbound direction.
  5. Router(config)# interface gigabitEthernet 0/0 
  6. Router(config-if)# ip access-group 1 in 
Extended ACL Configuration
  1. Define the ACL:
  2. Router(config)# access-list 100 permit tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 10.0.0.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80 
  3. Router(config)# access-list 100 deny ip any any 
  4. Apply the ACL to an Interface:
  5. Router(config)# interface gigabitEthernet 0/0 
  6. Router(config-if)# ip access-group 100 out 

Key ACL Concepts
  1. Wildcard Masks:
    • Used in ACLs to specify ranges of IP addresses.
    • Example: 0.0.0.255 allows the range 192.168.1.0–192.168.1.255.
  2. Order of Rules:
    • Place specific rules before general ones to ensure correct traffic filtering.
  3. Direction:
    • Inbound: Filter traffic entering the interface.
    • Outbound: Filter traffic leaving the interface.

Practice in Cisco Packet Tracer
  1. Setup:
    • Use a router, switch, and PCs.
    • Create a topology with at least two networks.
  2. Simulate Rules:
    • Block traffic from one PC to another network using a standard ACL.
    • Allow only HTTP traffic using an extended ACL.
  3. Verify:
    • Use show access-lists to view ACL configuration.
    • Test connectivity with ping or by opening a web browser.

Common Scenarios for ACL Usage

Best Practices for ACLs

By mastering ACLs, you’ll gain critical network security skills essential for cybersecurity professionals. Let me know if you’d like help creating a lab scenario for ACLs in Packet Tracer!

NAT (Network Address Translation):

Network Address Translation (NAT) is a process used in computer networks that allows multiple devices on a local network (such as a private network) to access the internet using a single public IP address. This is especially useful when the number of available public IP addresses is limited. Here’s a bit more detail about NAT:

NAT is commonly used in home and corporate routers to provide internet access to multiple devices while hiding their private IP addresses from the external world.

Wireless Networking:

Your outlined plan for mastering Wireless Networking, VLANs, ACLs, and NAT is comprehensive and practical. Here’s how your action plan aligns with your goals, along with some additional tips to ensure success:


Wireless Networking Overview

Topics to Focus On:


Action Plan

1. Study Resources

2. Simulations

3. Practical Exercises


Expected Output
  1. Proficiency in VLAN and ACL Configuration:
    • Efficiently segment networks with VLANs.
    • Control traffic flow using ACLs for security and management.
  2. Comprehensive Understanding of NAT:
    • Configure NAT in real-world scenarios.
    • Troubleshoot connectivity issues related to NAT.
  3. Wireless Networking Expertise:
    • Set up secure and high-performance wireless networks.
    • Understand and implement advanced features like Wi-Fi 6.

Additional Tips

Let me know if you’d like templates, detailed guides, or further clarifications!


Phase 3: Earn Networking Certifications (6–8 Months)

Target Certifications

1. CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)

2. Optional: CompTIA Network+


Preparation Steps

1. Follow Structured Courses

2. Study Schedule

3. Practice Labs

4. Attempt Practice Exams


Expected Output

  1. Certification Achievement:
    • Earn the CCNA to validate your networking expertise.
    • Optional Network+ for foundational knowledge and a broader scope.
  2. Enhanced Resume:
    • Showcase industry-recognized credentials.
    • Stand out in job applications for roles in networking or cybersecurity.

Additional Tips


Phase 4: Transition to Cybersecurity (After Networking)

Key Skills and Learning Plan

1. Firewall Configuration


2. Packet Analysis


3. Hands-On Labs


4. Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)


Expected Output

  1. Firewall Mastery:
    • Configure, manage, and troubleshoot firewalls to secure networks.
  2. Proficiency in Packet Analysis:
    • Use Wireshark for in-depth traffic analysis and anomaly detection.
  3. Real-World Experience:
    • Solve complex challenges through platforms like TryHackMe and Hack The Box.
  4. IDS/IPS Expertise:
    • Set up and operate Snort or Suricata to monitor and protect networks.

Additional Tips

Action Plan

  1. Set up a virtual lab using VirtualBox/VMware.
  2. Simulate attack scenarios using Kali Linux and other penetration testing tools.
  3. Follow cybersecurity tracks on TryHackMe (e.g., “Network Security”).

Output:


Final Tools and Resources

Here’s a consolidated list of tools and resources along with their descriptions and links to access them:


Final Tools and Resources

1. Cisco Packet Tracer


2. Wireshark


3. TryHackMe


4. Urdu IT Academy


5. Official CCNA Study Guide


Additional Suggestions


Daily Study Schedule

Here’s a structured daily study schedule to help you stay consistent and make steady progress toward mastering networking and cybersecurity concepts:


Daily Study Schedule

1. 1 Hour: Watch a Video or Read About a Concept


2. 2 Hours: Practical Simulation in Packet Tracer


3. 1 Hour: Practice Subnetting or VLAN Scenarios


4. 1–2 Hours: Cybersecurity Basics or Lab Exercises


Weekly Progress Review


Tips for Staying on Track

  1. Set Daily Goals: Write down what you want to accomplish each day.
  2. Track Progress: Maintain a log of completed tasks and concepts learned.
  3. Stay Consistent: Even if time is short, prioritize completing at least one task daily.

If you’d like a printable schedule or help adjusting this plan to fit your specific needs, let me know!


By following this roadmap step by step, you’ll be well-prepared for both networking and cybersecurity roles. The combination of certifications, hands-on labs, and practical simulations ensures a solid foundation for a successful career. If you have any question you can contact us.


Spread the love
Exit mobile version