CS321 - Computer Networks

Aims and Objectives

To provide the participant with a solid foundation in the principles of computer networking and a basic understanding of the operation of the latest networking technologies. On completing this class, the participant should have the necessary skills to be able to design, build and test a small-scale communications network in a virtual environment. 

Learning Outcomes

After completing this class participants will be able to: 

1. Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the area of computer networking and its terminology. 
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the operation of a range of networking protocols and devices. 
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the TCP/IP and OSI models. 
4. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the underpinning mechanisms of cutting-edge networking technologies such as software defined networking, network function virtualisation and fifth generation mobile networks (5G Networks) 
5. Design, implement and test a basic communications network in a virtual environment. 

Syllabus

The class aims to provide a good grounding in the basics of computer networking. This module provides participants with an “under the hood” look at how computers (and other digital devices such as mobile phones and tablets) communicate with each other across a network. It begins by introducing the basic principles, terminology, protocols and network devices which, when deployed together, form an end to end communications network. 

It then, through a series of step by step videos and tutorials, shows the participant how to build, configure and test a small communications network such as that used by a multi-site SME. 

 Finally, the participant is introduced to the latest cutting-edge networking technologies and, while working in a group, undertakes a small case study based on one of three areas: 

• The role of web services for tactical battlefield communications 
• Adaptive, user experience driven video streaming in 5G mobile networks 
• Autonomous network management in virtualised, software defined networks 

Main topics covered: 

• Introduction to Computer Networks: The uses of computer networks, network Hardware & types of networks, protocols, layers & network services, OSI & TCP/IP reference models 
• Network architectures & services 
• Layers of a network protocol stack: the physical layer, data link layer, internet layer, application layer
• IP addressing and sub-netting 
• Network devices 
• Message passing and real time traffic support 
• Building a virtual network 
• Local Area Network design 
• Current trends in networking: cloud services, software defined networks, network function virtualisation
• Emerging trends in networking: autonomous network management, 5G mobile networks 

Recommended Reading

This list is indicative only – the class lecturer may recommend alternative reading material. Please do not purchase any of the reading material listed below until you have confirmed with the class lecturer that it will be used for this class.

• Data & Computer Communications (10th Edition), William Stallings, Pearson, 978 1 292 01438 8 
• Computer Networks (5th Edition – Pearson New International Edition), Andrew S Tanenbaum, David J Wetherall, Pearson, 978 1 292 02422 6 
• The Basics of Cloud Computing: Understanding the fundamentals of cloud computing in theory and practice, Derrick Rountree, Illeana Castrillo, Elsevier, 978 0 124 05932 0 

Last updated: 2022-12-15 09:59:16