This course has been certified by the CPD Certification Service as conforming to continuing professional development principles. Find out more.

Master network security fundamentals for enterprise systems

Securing enterprise networks requires both solid foundations and practical skills to defend against modern cyber threats. This course gives you a comprehensive overview of network architecture, access control, device security, and monitoring techniques essential for robust defence.

You’ll build the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to protect enterprise networks across industries—from understanding how networks are structured to implementing the security measures that keep them safe.

Network security fundamentals and architectural design

Explore the core concepts of network design including VLANs, subnetting, and layered security zones. You’ll learn how to apply threat modelling principles to protect enterprise assets and control network traffic effectively, building networks that are secure by design.

Access control, VPNs, and securing network devices

Gain practical experience implementing Access Control Lists (ACLs), configuring Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and securing network devices. You’ll understand encryption protocols and techniques to safeguard data as it moves across public and private networks.

Centralised authentication, monitoring, and wireless security

Learn to deploy centralised authentication using TACACS+ to manage administrative access and monitor network activity effectively. You’ll explore wireless security challenges and operations, culminating in a practical project that brings together everything you’ve learned.

You’ll walk away with confidence in your ability to secure enterprise networks in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government.

Explore our ExpertTrack: Advanced Cyber Defence & Offensive Security.

Syllabus

Week 1
Network Security Fundamentals & Architecture
- Lesson 1: Course Introduction
  Introduction to the course, key topics to be covered, and call to action.
- Lesson 2: Understanding Network Security Basics
  Learn fundamental network security concepts, threats, and basic defence mechanisms.
- Lesson 3: Designing Secure Network Architectures
  Explore principles of secure network design and architectural patterns for defence in depth.
- Lesson 4: Implementing VLANs in Real Network
  Hands-on implementation of Virtual LANs for network segmentation and security isolation.
Week 2
Access Control, VPNs, and Device Security
- Lesson 5: Controlling Access with ACLs
  Master Access Control Lists (ACLs) for granular network access management and traffic filtering.
- Lesson 6: VPNs and Securing Traffic in Transit
  Comprehensive VPN technologies and protocols for secure remote access and data transmission.
- Lesson 7: Securing Network Devices Locally
  Local security hardening techniques for routers, switches, and other network infrastructure devices.
Week 3
Centralised Authentication and Network Monitoring
- Lesson 8: AAA and TACACS+ Integration
  Authentication, authorisation, and accounting systems with TACACS+ for centralised user management.
- Lesson 9: Monitoring Network Traffic and Performance
  Learn to monitor network traffic patterns, analyse performance metrics, and implement effective monitoring solutions for network security.
- Lesson 10: Building a Layered Defence Strategy
  Design and implement comprehensive layered security approaches, combining multiple defence mechanisms for robust network protection.
Week 4
Wireless Security, Operations & Final Project
- Lesson 11: Wireless Network Security Fundamentals
  Essential concepts of wireless network security, including encryption protocols, access control, and vulnerability assessment techniques.
- Lesson 12: Wireless Monitoring and Intrusion Prevention
  Advanced techniques for monitoring wireless networks, detecting intrusions, and implementing prevention measures for wireless environments.
- Lesson 13: Capstone – Building a Secure Network
  Comprehensive capstone project integrating all course concepts to design, implement, and secure a complete network infrastructure.

Who is this accredited by?

The CPD Certification Service:

The CPD Certification Service was established in 1996 and is the leading independent CPD accreditation institution operating across industry sectors to complement the CPD policies of professional and academic bodies.

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

Available now
Join - $69

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

Apply secure design using threat modeling, VLANs, subnetting, and layered zones to control traffic and reduce enterprise risk.
Implement ACLs and VPNs to regulate traffic by IP, protocol, port, and encrypt data across public/private networks.
Configure AAA with TACACS+ to manage admin access and monitor network activity for threat detection and response.
Apply advanced techniques to design and validate a secured enterprise network using integrated prior skills.
Apply secure network design principles, VLANs, VPNs, ACLs, and monitoring tools to build, protect, and operate enterprise networks, demonstrating the ability to design and defend infrastructure using modern layered defense strategies.

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for network engineers, cybersecurity specialists, IT professionals, and anyone pursuing advanced skills in securing enterprise networks, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government.

Who will you learn with?

Paul Siegel

Who developed the course?

Starweaver

Starweaver is a next generation platform that engages your workforce as no other. Combining business and technical skills, Starweaver provides real-time skill building that is in line with your business objectives and strategies, and in your associates day to day tasks and jobs.

What's included?

This is a premium course. These courses are designed for professionals from specific industries looking to learn with a smaller group of like-minded individuals.

Unlimited access to this course
Includes any articles, videos, peer reviews and quizzes
Certificate of Achievement to prove your success when you're eligible
Download and print your Certificate of Achievement anytime

Join - $69

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Learning on FutureLearn

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Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

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Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
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As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate

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