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Understand every connection layer

Wi-Fi & Networking

Learn how home networks work, improve Wi-Fi coverage, understand IP and DNS, and isolate device, router and internet-provider problems.

View curriculum
BeginnerDifficulty
3 hoursEstimated time
5 modules16 lessons
6 guided labsKnowledge check
01
Before you begin

What you need

  • A phone or computer connected to a home network
  • Access to the router when practical
  • No prior networking knowledge required
02
Step-by-step curriculum

Learning modules

Complete lessons in order or open the module that matches your current goal. Your lesson progress is saved on this device.

01Network FoundationsUnderstand the path data takes from your device to the internet.3 lessons · 1 lab
Guided lab · 20 min · Safe

Map a home network baseline

Identify the devices and connection boundaries in a home network before troubleshooting it.

Not started
02Wi-Fi Signal and Router SetupImprove coverage using placement, frequency bands and practical router settings.3 lessons · 1 lab
03IP, Gateway and DNSLearn the addressing concepts behind common “connected but no internet” problems.3 lessons · 2 labs
Guided lab · 25 min · Safe

Check IP address, gateway and DHCP

Read current network settings and distinguish a usable local configuration from an addressing problem.

Not started
Guided lab · 20 min · Safe

Test DNS resolution safely

Compare local gateway, internet-IP and domain-name results to identify a likely DNS boundary.

Not started
04Diagnose Connection ProblemsUse a layer-by-layer test sequence instead of restarting everything repeatedly.3 lessons · 1 lab
05Secure and Optimize the NetworkProtect router access and improve reliability without unsafe “speed hacks.”4 lessons · 1 lab
03
Knowledge check

Test your understanding

Answer all questions. Results and explanations are calculated instantly in your browser.

1Which device normally connects a home network to the internet service?
2What is the difference between a LAN and the internet?
3When is Ethernet usually preferable to Wi-Fi?
4Where is a home Wi-Fi router usually placed for better coverage?
5Which Wi-Fi band generally travels farther through walls but offers less capacity?
6What is the best practice for a Wi-Fi network name and password?
7Which address is normally private and used only inside a local network?
8What does DHCP normally provide to a client device?
9What problem does DNS solve?
10Only one phone cannot connect, but every other device works. Where should diagnosis begin?
11What does a successful ping to the default gateway show?
12Repeated Wi-Fi disconnects happen only in one room. Which hypothesis should be tested first?
13Why should the router administrator password differ from the Wi-Fi password?
14Which Wi-Fi security setting is preferred when all devices support it?
15What is a primary purpose of a guest network?
16How should a network improvement be evaluated?
17A device reaches 1.1.1.1 but cannot open websites by name. What is the most likely area to check?
18No devices have internet, but they can reach the router. What scope is most likely?
19Which setup balances performance and compatibility in many homes?
20After moving a router, what should you do before declaring the change successful?
04
Practice with TipsMake

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