Introductory description

The Internet and computer networks are now ubiquitous and a growing number of computing activities strongly depend on the correct operation of the underlying network. Networks, both fixed and mobile, are a key part of the computing environment of today and tomorrow. Many computing applications that are used today would not be possible without networks. This dependency on the underlying network is likely to increase in the future. This module develops theoretical understanding of core networks and communications concepts, instantiation of these concepts in the dominant suite of protocols comprising Ethernet, Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP), the practical realisation of devices to operate these protocols (switches, routers and firewalls in particular) and the cyber consequences of the organisation and configuration of these devices.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Outline content
The content of this module will be taught from a cyber security perspective.

• introduction
• networked applications
• reliable data delivery
• routing and forwarding
• local area networks
• resource allocation
• mobility

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• 1 – articulate the key principles behind the organisation and operation of typical communication networks and layered protocols using domain terminology.
• 2 - configure network devices to achieve required operating characteristics.
• 3 - explain network behaviour from captured network traffic.

Indicative reading list

Donahue, Gary A., “Network Warrior”, O'Reilly (2011)

IETF, “IETF Request for Comments (RFC)”, https://www.ietf.org/rfc.html [accessed Jan 13 2017]

Kozeriok, Charles M., “TCP/IP Guide: A Comprehensive, Illustrated Internet Protocols Reference”,
No Starch Press (2005)

Subject specific skills

1 – articulate the key principles behind the organisation and operation of typical communication networks and layered protocols using domain terminology.
2 - configure network devices to achieve required operating characteristics.
3 - explain network behaviour from captured network traffic.

Transferable skills

Problem solving