NACDA Curriculum Overview
Our curriculum is designed to provide hands-on technical training through structured weekly progression.
Each program builds skills gradually while reinforcing knowledge through labs and practical exercises.
Program 1 Curriculum
Network Architecture Foundations (16 Weeks)
Weeks 1–2
Introduction to Networking
- How the Internet works
- Understanding networks
- Overview of network devices
- Introduction to TCP/IP
Weeks 3–4
The OSI Model & Network Communication
- OSI model layers
- Data encapsulation
- Ethernet fundamentals
- Packet structure
Weeks 5–6
IPv4 Addressing
- IP addressing concepts
- Subnet masks
- CIDR notation
- Address planning
Weeks 7–8
Subnetting and Network Design
- Subnetting calculations
- Network segmentation
- Address planning for organizations
- Practical subnetting labs
Weeks 9–10
Switching & VLANs
- Switch operations
- MAC address tables
- VLAN segmentation
- Trunking concepts
Weeks 11–12
Routing Basics
- Routers and routing concepts
- Static routing
- Network paths
- Basic routing labs
Weeks 13–14
Linux Fundamentals
- Linux operating system basics
- File system navigation
- User management
- Command-line tools
Weeks 15–16
Network Troubleshooting & Final Lab
- Troubleshooting methodology
- Network diagnostic tools
- Infrastructure troubleshooting
- Final hands-on network project
Program 2 Curriculum
Cyber Defense & Security Operations (16 Weeks)
Weeks 1–2
Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity fundamentals
- Threat actors and motivations
- Security principles
Weeks 3–4
Security Architecture
- Defense-in-depth
- Security zones
- Network segmentation
- Security models
Weeks 5–6
Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Malware types
- Exploitation concepts
- Vulnerability basics
- Risk awareness
Weeks 7–8
Security Monitoring
- Security logs
- Network monitoring
- Detecting suspicious activity
- Basic traffic analysis
Weeks 9–10
System Hardening
- Operating system security
- Access control
- Account management
- Security configuration
Weeks 11–12
Network Security
- Firewalls
- Intrusion detection concepts
- Network defense techniques
- Security best practices
Weeks 13–14
Incident Response
- Identifying incidents
- Investigation basics
- Response procedures
- Documentation practices
Weeks 15–16
Final Cyber Defense Lab
- Security scenario simulation
- Incident analysis
- Defensive strategy exercise
- Final cybersecurity project
Learning Model
All NACDA programs include:
✔ Hands-on labs
✔ Instructor guidance
✔ Real-world scenarios
✔ Technical skill development
✔ Career pathway awareness
Start Your Training
The technology industry needs skilled professionals who understand both network infrastructure and cybersecurity defense.
NACDA programs provide the foundation to begin that journey.
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