Washington Libraries' Cisco Networking Academy

Cisco Networking Academy is a workforce development program for learning institutions and individuals worldwide. More than 9.2 million people have joined the Networking Academy and become a force for change in the global economy since 1997.

Networking Academy is one of the pillars of Cisco's Corporate Social Responsibility, delivering classroom instructions, online teaching materials, interactive tools, and hands-on learning to students from every socioeconomic background, so they can develop the knowledge and skills required to succeed in a technology-driven market.

The Washington State Library has partnered with tech leader Cisco Systems to provide access to the online, self-paced courses available in the Networking Academy, to give Washingtonians the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills that support careers with IT and non-IT companies alike - and to start their IT career exploration. The Networking Academy learning portfolio includes courses in Digital Literacy, Cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), Linux Operating System, Programming, Network Design, and Business. The beginning and intermediate-level courses offered provide a solid foundation for any career in today's increasingly digital, connected world, and may serve as a jump-start to pursuing certification, a post-secondary certificate or degree.

Cisco Networking Academy courses provide you with the fundamental technical skills needed for careers in digital technology, but as you navigate your career choices it can be daunting to figure out what roles best suit your skills, personality and interests beyond technology. The Cisco Networking Academy Talent Bridge program provides the link between talent (that's you!) and opportunities. The goal of the program is to provide resources to Networking Academy students, both current and former, to help them become more employable, and to help connect them with employers around the world who value the education received via the Networking Academy.

There are no shortage of online resources to help you build the perfect profile or choose the right key words to make your resume stand out, but how can you chart your path? Click here to self-enroll in NetAcad's Talent Bridge Career Preparation workshop, which provides a guide to help you transition from your Cisco Networking Academy training to navigating a professional technology career.

Click a course title below to learn more and self-enroll to start your learning (you will be asked to provide a full name and email address to enroll).

Digital Literacy

Improve your digital skills by gaining a better understanding computers, the Internet, and social media.

Get Connected (30 hours; beginning) - Cover the digital basics:  Learn to use a computer, connect devices, and use the internet for search, email, and social media.

Online Safety & Cybersecurity

Whether you're interested in protecting your online identity, reputation and assets or exploring a career in the important and fast-growing field of cybersecurity, there's a course for you.

Introduction to Cybersecurity (15 hours; beginning) - Today’s interconnected world makes everyone more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Whether you’re attracted to the relativity new world of cybersecurity as a professional, or just interested in protecting yourself online and in social media, this introductory course is the answer. It explores cyber trends, threats—along with the broader topic of cybersecurity in a way that will matter to YOU. For instance, you’ll learn how to protect your personal privacy online while gaining additional insight on the challenges companies, and governmental and educational institutions face today. You’ll earn a Networking Academy badge for completing this course. No prerequisites required.

Cybersecurity Essentials (30 hours; intermediate) - A single breach can have huge consequences for a company, hurting the bottom line and causing disruption in the daily lives of millions of people. That is why the demand for security professionals continues to grow. Get onboard—and develop an understanding of cybercrime, security principles, technologies, and procedures used to defend networks. Then decide whether you want to pursue an entry-level networking or security professional role. You'll also earn a Networking Academy badge for completing this course. Recommended if you plan to study for the CCNA or CyberOps Associate Certifications. Prerequisite Introduction to Cybersecurity or equivalent knowledge recommended.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of Internet-connected devices that collect and exchange data. Get basic IoT skills that can help transform any business in any industry.

Introduction to IoT (20 hours; beginning) - Learn about the Internet of Things and how it enables the Digital Transformation along with emerging technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and increased attention to cybersecurity. (Recommended as start for any learning pathway.)

Linux Operating System (OS)

Linux is the back-end operating system used by global titans such as Facebook, Google, Microsoft, NASA, Tesla, Amazon and more.

Linux Unhatched (from NDG) (8 hours; beginning) - This “start from scratch” Linux course from partner Network Development Group (NDG) lets you wade into the shallow end of Linux, one of the most successful open source collaborations, that has evolved into the most reliable operating system on the planet. Course graduates walk away with a clear understanding of whether Linux is for them or not, without having to commit to more than 8 total hours of self-paced learning. To ensure you don’t get stuck, you’ll be guided step-by-step through a series of hands-on virtual machine activities. The course aligns well with the Linux exam objectives found on the CompTIA A+ Certification. After this course, we suggest taking either NDG Linux Essentials or NDG Linux I.

Linux Essentials (from NDG) (70 hours; intermediate) - Build upon your Linux knowledge and get closer to job ready skills. As one of the most successful open source collaborations, Linux has evolved into the most reliable operating system on the planet, used for embedded systems to virtually all supercomputers.  Nearly every IT job requires some Linux knowledge. Network Development Group's (NDG) Linux Essentials quickly builds your Linux knowledge and prepares you for the LPI Linux Essentials Professional Development Certificate (PDC), your proof to employers that you know Linux! Many concepts in this course are covered at a more demanding pace in NDG Linux I.  No prerequisites required for this course; recommended pre-requisite: NDG's Linux Unhatched.

Programming with Python

Python is a versatile, object-oriented programming language used to write computer programs and design web or desktop applications - learn Python, the 'language of IoT.'

Programming Essentials in Python (70 hours; intermediate) - How great would it be to write your own computer program? Or, design a web or desktop application that millions of people could enjoy? Both are a possibility if you learn how to code in Python. Uused by startups and tech giants, Google, Facebook, Dropbox and IBM, Python is also recommended for aspiring young developers who are interested in pursuing careers in Security, Networking and Internet-of-Things. Once you complete this course, you are ready to take the PCAP – Certified Associate in Python programming. No prior knowledge of programming is required.

Network Design

Networking is at the heart of the digital transformation. The network is essential to many business functions today, including business critical data and operations, cybersecurity, and so much more. A wide variety of career paths rely on the network -- so it's important to understand what the network can do, how it operates, and how to protect it.

Introduction to Packet Tracer (10 hours, beginning) - Cisco's Packet Tracer tool allows users to simulate the configuration of Cisco routers and switches to create network topologies and imitate modern computer networks. Enroll, download and start learning valuable tips and best practices for using Cisco's innovative, virtual simulation tool. This self-paced course is designed for beginners with no prior networking knowledge. It teaches basic operations of the tool with multiple hands-on activities helping you to visualize a network using everyday examples, including Internet of Things (IoT). This Introductory course is extremely helpful for anyone who plans to take one of the Networking Academy courses that utilizes the powerful simulation tool. No prerequisites required!

Introduction to Packet Tracer for Mobile (2 hours, beginning) - Practice and discover networking via your mobile device in this simple course designed for mobile users of Cisco Packet Tracer.

Networking Essentials (70 hours; intermediate) - This is a great course for developers, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, and other professionals looking to broaden their networking domain knowledge. It’s also an excellent launching point for students pursuing a wide range of career pathways – from cybersecurity to software development to business and more. A Networking Academy digital badge is available for the instructor-led version of this course. No prerequisites required.

Business & Entreneurship

Entrepreneurship (15 hours; intermediate) - It takes more than a single great idea to become a successful entrepreneur. The winding road between idea and execution requires business acumen, financial skills, and most importantly the right mind-set. This knowledge can not only set you apart, but set up your technology venture for greater success. So, why not benefit from a course that’s made for you, jump-starting your ideas, and arming you with the right skills to take the next step with more self-confidence. No prerequisites required.

Additional self-directed, online learning courses on these topics and MUCH more are available through the Microsoft LinkedIn Learning Program, also provided by the Washington State Library to Washingtonians at no charge, and through your local Washington public library.