30/60/90-day networking learning plan

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🗓️ Phase 1: Days 1–30 – Foundations of Networking

🎯 Goal: Understand how networks work, basic terms, and components.

📘 Learn

• Read:

  • Network+ Guide to Networks (Ch. 1–6)

  • Supplement with PracticalNetworking.net (Start with TCP/IP, OSI model, ARP)

• Watch:

  • FreeCodeCamp Networking Full Course on YouTube

  • Cisco NetAcad: Introduction to Networking

🛠️ Practice

• Set up Wireshark and capture local traffic

• Use SubnettingPractice.com 10 mins/day

✅ Milestones

• Define and explain the OSI model & TCP/IP stack

• Use Wireshark to identify protocols (HTTP, DNS, etc.)

• Successfully calculate subnet masks and CIDR notations

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🗓️ Phase 2: Days 31–60 – Intermediate Concepts + Simulation

🎯 Goal: Dive deeper into routing, switching, IP addressing, and DNS.

📘 Learn

• Read:

  • Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (Ch. 3–6)

  • Practical Networking: Routing & NAT sections

• Watch:

  • Keith Barker’s Networking videos (on YouTube or CBT Nuggets)

• Labs:

  • Download and use Cisco Packet Tracer

  • Build a simulated LAN, assign static IPs, configure DNS & DHCP

🛠️ Practice

• Practice subnetting daily until it's second nature

• Use Packet Tracer: set up a basic router/switch simulation

✅ Milestones

• Set up and explain a basic home network

• Explain how NAT, DNS, and DHCP work

• Complete at least 3 Packet Tracer simulations

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🗓️ Phase 3: Days 61–90 – Applied Networking + Cert Prep

🎯 Goal: Apply your skills, reinforce key concepts, and prep for Network+ or CCNA if desired.

📘 Learn

• Read:

  • TCP/IP Illustrated (skim or focus on ICMP, TCP, IP headers)

  • Review Network+ study guide

• Watch:

  • Professor Messer’s Network+ videos (free and excellent)

🛠️ Practice

• Create a virtual lab using GNS3 or EVE-NG

• Troubleshoot simulated network problems

• Take practice Network+ exams

✅ Milestones

• Pass 2–3 Network+ practice exams with 80%+

• Explain a packet's full journey from browser to web server

• Build and document a full network topology in Packet Tracer

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🧰 Optional Tools (Install Early)

• ✅ Wireshark – packet analysis

• ✅ Cisco Packet Tracer – simulations

• ✅ VirtualBox or GNS3 – emulated routers/firewalls

• ✅ Notion/Obsidian/Google Docs – notes + concept mapping

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Would you like a printable or Notion-friendly version of this roadmap? I can also tailor it more to certification goals or real-world troubleshooting if that's your direction.