COMP06293 2021 Introduction to Computer Networking
Introduction to Computer Networking covers networking architecture, structure and functions. This module enables the students to identify the major components of a network, the most important networking protocols and the most common network security defences. It provides a top-down approach to the basic networking concepts necessary for implementing a network within an organisation.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Describe various network types and services.
Describe the structure of a network, including the devices and media that are necessary for successful and secure communications.
Define the layers of the OSI model along with their functions and protocols used in the data communication process.
Design, implement and troubleshoot a simple network.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Simulation-based learning activities promote the exploration of networking concepts and allow students to experiment with network behaviour.
Hands-on labs help students develop critical thinking and complex problem solving skills.
Module Assessment Strategies
Quizzes held throughout the semester.
Practical assessment on packet tracer to test the students' ability to configure and troubleshoot a network.
Repeat Assessments
Repeat quizzes and/or practical to examine the learning outcomes that have not been achieved.
Indicative Syllabus
1. Network types and services
- Differentiate between LANs, WANs, MANs and SANs
- Identify the requirements for LAN and WAN connectivity (wired or wireless)
- Explain the role of a VPN
- Distinguish between Intranets and Extranets
2. Network structure and security
- Networks support the way we live and work
- End devices and their role on the network
- Intermediary devices and their role on the network
- Network media
- Network architecture
- Fault-tolerant network architecture
- Scalable network architecture
- Quality of service
- Network addressing
- Differentiate between static and dynamic address allocation
- Differentiate between IPv4 and IPv6 addressing
- Getting data to the end device
- Getting data to the right application
- Network security
3. Layered models and protocols
- Network protocols
- Interaction of protocols
- The benefits of a layered model
- OSI model
- TCP/IP model with examples of protocols at each layer
- Communication process
- Protocol data units and encapsulation
- Sending and receiving process
4. Implement a simple network
- Design and implement a simple network based on requirements
- Implement basic security measures on network devices
- Test network connectivity
- Troubleshoot the network
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Quiz | Coursework Assessment | Multiple Choice/Short Answer Test | 10 % | Week 4 | 1 |
2 | Quiz | Coursework Assessment | Multiple Choice/Short Answer Test | 20 % | Week 7 | 2 |
3 | Quiz | Coursework Assessment | Multiple Choice/Short Answer Test | 20 % | Week 10 | 3 |
4 | Create a simple network | Practical | Practical Evaluation | 50 % | Week 12 | 2,4 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Supervision | Computer Laboratory | Simulation based learning activities and hand-on labs | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Independent Learning | Not Specified | Independent learning | 4 | Weekly | 4.00 |
Required & Recommended Book List
2013 Introduction to Networks Companion Guide Pearson Education
ISBN 9781587133169 ISBN-13 1587133164
Introduction to Networks Companion Guide is the official supplemental textbook for the Introduction to Networks course in the Cisco Networking Academy CCNA Routing and Switching curriculum. The course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and computer networks. The principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations are introduced to provide a foundation for the curriculum. By the end of the course, you will be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes. The Companion Guide is designed as a portable desk reference to use anytime, anywhere to reinforce the material from the course and organize your time. The book's features help you focus on important concepts to succeed in this course: Chapter ObjectivesReview core concepts by answering the focus questions listed at the beginning of each chapter. Key TermsRefer to the lists of networking vocabulary introduced and highlighted in context in each chapter. GlossaryConsult the comprehensive Glossary with more than 195 terms. Summary of Activities and LabsMaximize your study time with this complete list of all associated practice exercises at the end of each chapter. Check Your UnderstandingEvaluate your readiness with the end-of-chapter questions that match the style of questions you see in the online course quizzes. The answer key explains each answer. Related Title: Introduction to Networks Lab Manual ISBN-10: 1-58713-312-1 ISBN-13: 978-1-58713-312-1 How ToLook for this icon to study the steps you need to learn to perform certain tasks. Interactive ActivitiesReinforce your understanding of topics with more than 50 different exercises from the online course identified throughout the book with this icon. VideosWatch the videos embedded within the online course. Packet Tracer ActivitiesExplore and visualize networking concepts using Packet Tracer exercises interspersed throughout the chapters. Hands-on LabsWork through all 66 course labs and Class Activities that are included in the course and published in the separate Lab Manual. This book is part of the Cisco Networking Academy Series from Cisco Press. Books in this series support and complement the Cisco Networking Academy curriculum.
Module Resources
Packet Tracer application