The Internet Society Foundation, together with Women in Technology in Nigeria(WITIN), is pleased to invite members of our community to join the first cohort of the Introduction to Network Operations training program.
This free, instructor-moderated technical course provides foundational skills in network operations, Linux systems administration, and Internet infrastructure, preparing participants for careers in network engineering and system administration. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive an official certificate of completion.
As the Internet continues to power education, innovation, and digital economies across Africa, there is growing demand for professionals who understand how networks operate behind the scenes. This program provides hands-on experience configuring and operating Internet infrastructure in a virtualized environment.
About the Course
The Introduction to Network Operations course is designed for novice or entry-level learners pursuing careers in networking or systems administration.
The training is practically oriented and provides step-by-step guidance on configuring a UNIX/Linux server and deploying a caching Domain Name System (DNS) server in a virtualized environment. These techniques mirror real-world practices used by network operators and system administrators managing Internet infrastructure.
Participants will work with virtual machines, gaining experience with command-line tools used in operational network environments.
Duration: Four weeks of live sessions followed by two additional weeks to complete the eLearning course, making a total of six weeks.
Key Learning Areas
Participants will learn to:
• Operate a UNIX/Linux system in a virtualized environment
• Work confidently with the Linux command-line interface
• Install third-party software using Linux package management tools
• Manage files and configure user permissions (chmod)
• Edit system files using the VIM editor in non-GUI environments
• Understand the role of the Domain Name System (DNS) in Internet operations
• Configure caching DNS servers using BIND or Unbound
• Test DNS responses using dig commands
• Apply networking concepts including IPv4 and IPv6
• Understand Internet standards through the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and the Request for Comments (RFC) process
Expected Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of UNIX/Linux systems and administration
• Configure file access permissions and manage users in Linux environments
• Execute file management tasks using command-line tools
• Manipulate text files using the VIM editor
• Configure and activate a caching DNS server
• Test DNS functionality using tools such as dig
• Explain how DNS supports the functioning of the global Internet
Who Should Apply
This course is ideal for:
• Entry-level or aspiring network engineers
• Aspiring system administrators
• Recent graduates interested in Internet infrastructure
• Professionals from universities, Internet Service Providers, Research and Education Networks (REN), ccTLD registries, or Network Operator Groups (NOGs)
No prerequisites are required, but applicants should have interest in technical learning and hands-on computing environments.
Technical Requirements
Because the course involves virtual machine environments, participants will need:
• A laptop or desktop computer
• A stable and reasonably strong Internet connection
• Ability to install and run virtualization tools
Training Format
The course will be delivered as a moderated online training, combining structured learning modules with instructor-guided sessions and practical exercises.
Participants will collaborate with instructors and peers while developing real-world networking skills.
Cohort Information
• Cohort: First Community Cohort
• Delivery: Moderated online course
• Duration: ~6 weeks
• Cost: Free participation
• Certification: Certificate issued upon successful completion
• Start date: Scheduled once the cohort is filled
Registration
Applications for the first cohort are now open. Spaces are limited, and enrollment will close once the required number of participants is reached.
