The aim of this subject is to give the student an introduction to the fundamentals of computer networking.
Introduction:
Basic network communications and the need for standardisation;the OSI and TCP/IP model and the concept of layers. Numbering systems and formats used in network engineering: binary, hexadecimal, dotted decimal notation.Internet overview. Understanding network typologies. Essential terminology required for this module.
Physical Layer
Introduction to the physical layer: copper, wireless and fibre media, example cabling standards such as CAT5 and CAT6, collision domains, CSMA-CD. Bandwidth and Latency considerations.
Data Link Layer
Introduction to the concept of framing: Ethernet frames, MAC addressing. Definition of a local area network (LAN). Purpose and functions of a Switch.
Network Layer and IP Addressing
The role of the network layer and an introduction to IP. IPV4 datagram. Basic router configuration. Definition of a wide area network (WAN). Concept of network mask. Splitting a network into equal subnets. Calculation of subnet masks and subnet address ranges. Wire address and broadcast address. Classfull and classless addresses. Use of public and private addresses. Request for Comment (RFC) example standards.
Transport and Application Layer
The role of the Transport layer and example protocols such asTCP/UDP. Port numbers. Examples of applications used for troubleshooting and configuring a network.
Network implementation
Planning, cabling and testing a simple network. Documentation. Security considerations.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |
| Formal Examination | 50 |