Course Description
This unit introduces the principles of computer networking. Learners are introduced to network models and the different layers of computer networks. They will learn about the TCP/IP model and protocol suite, understanding the need for the separation between the different layers. A range of protocols are introduced, with a particular focus given to the key protocols of ethernet, IP and TCP/UDP. Learners will learn about the networking hardware that is essential for connecting devices in the physical world, including routers, switches. The unit concludes with the learners putting theory into practice by designing a practical computer network for a given setting.
Course Objectives
This unit introduces the principles of computer networking. Learners are introduced to network models and the different layers of computer networks. They will learn about the TCP/IP model and protocol suite, understanding the need for the separation between the different layers. A range of protocols are introduced, with a particular focus given to the key protocols of ethernet, IP and TCP/UDP. Learners will learn about the networking hardware that is essential for connecting devices in the physical world, including routers, switches. The unit concludes with the learners putting theory into practice by designing a practical computer network for a given setting.
Key Topics
- LO1: Understand the core principles of computer networks.
- LO2: Understand how devices connect to form networks.
- LO3: Be able to design a computer network suited to a given setting.
Course Outline
| Week | Topics |
|---|
| 1 | Network models: the OSI and TCP/IP models compared |
| 2 | Protocols and protocol suites |
| 3 | Protocols at each layer: HTTP, email, DNS, TCP and UDP, Ethernet and MAC addresses |
| 4 | The Internet Protocol: IP addresses, subnets, IPv4 and IPv6 |
| 5 | Networking hardware: routers, switches and gateways; cabling and speeds |
| 6 | Securing network communication: firewalls, encryption and secure connections |
| 7 | Wireless and mobile networks: from 2G to 5G, Wi-Fi, RFID and NFC |
| Midterm | Midterm evaluation |
| 9 | Network topologies: bus, star, ring and mesh; use cases, redundancy, performance and cost |
| 10 | Designing addressing schemes: IP allocation, subnetting, static/dynamic and public/private addressing |
| 11 | Network design project: selecting routers, switches, access points and cabling for a given setting against cost and scale |
| 12 | Applying Computer Networks in practice: case studies |
| 13 | Assignment workshop: research, planning and referencing |
| 14 | Assignment workshop: drafting, feedback and improvement |
| 15 | Review and coursework completion |
| Final | Final assessment and submission |
Learning Outcomes
- LO1 Understand the core principles of computer networks.
- 1.1 Describe the OSI and TCP/IP networking models and their layers and compare them.
- 1.2 Explain how different TCP/IP network protocols enable communication across devices and networks.
- 1.3 Analyse protocols and protocol suites.
- LO2 Understand how devices connect to form networks.
- 2.1 Describe the IP protocol.
- 2.2 Explain the role of network hardware components such as routers and switches.
- 2.3 Analyse the security measures used to secure communication across computer networks.
- 2.4 Evaluate mobile and wireless connection protocols and technologies.
- LO3 Be able to design a computer network suited to a given setting.
- 3.1 Decide on a network topology that is best suited to a given application and setting.
- 3.2 Analyse different network topologies and their role in disparate communication settings.
- 3.3 Design appropriate addressing schemes for a particular network.
- 3.4 Evaluate the best choice of network hardware for a given network.
