WM162-15 Network Protocols and Infrastructure
Introductory description
The advent of computer networks has revolutionised industries across all sectors. Computer networking allows businesses to grow by providing cost-effective resource sharing, improving storage efficiency, access and flexibility in securing valuable information.
Module aims
This module aims to equip apprentices with fundamental knowledge of computer architecture and networked computer systems. The main components of a personal computer and network elements required to build a small-networked computer will be discussed in detail. A focus will be on switching basics and small-scale routing. This includes topics such as advanced IP addressing techniques, command-line interface (CLI) configuration of Ethernet switches, routers and Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs). Basic cloud infrastructure will be introduced. Skills acquired in this module will enable students to identify, plan, build and maintain networked PC systems, as well as troubleshoot common hardware and software problems in an industrial environment.
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.
Basics of internetworking.
- Background of data communication (wired, wireless).
- Network topologies (Star, Mesh, Hybrid).
- Cabling technology, Troubleshoot interface and cable issues.
- NIC: Network Interface Card
The OSI Reference Model, TCP/IP reference model. - Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport and Application layers.
- Error-detection and correction techniques.
- Principles of Reliable Data Transfer.
Network Devices - NIC, Hub, Switch, Router, Firewalls, Access points, Wireless controllers.
Ethernet technology. - Multiple Access Links and Protocols (static and dynamic channel allocation).
- MAC addressing.
- Frame format Broadcast & collusion domain.
- Switching concepts (MAC learning, Frame switching, fame flooding, MAC address table).
IP addressing and routing - Network Protocols, IPv4 address types (Unicast, Multicast, and Broadcast).
- Private and Public networks. intro to routing protocols such as RIP, OSPF and EIGRP
- Troubleshoot IPv4 addressing and sub-netting.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Recognise the role and function of various computer networking components.
- Explain the Open System Interconnection (OSI) and TCP/IP model and their associated protocols.
- Describe the main network protocols, their purpose, features and relationship to each other.
- Design simple computer networks and implement appropriate addressing schemes.
- Use appropriate instructions to configure and troubleshoot network connectivity.
Indicative reading list
A.S. Tanenbaum, D.J. Wetherall, “Computer Networks”, 5/E, Pearson, ISBN: 9781292024226, (2013).
W. Stallings, “Computer Organization and Architecture”, 10/E, Pearson, ISBN: 9781292096858, (2016).
S. Tanenbaum, T. Austin, “Structured Computer Organization”, 6/E, Pearson, ISBN: 9780273769248, (2013).
J. Kurose, K. Ross, “Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach”, 7/E, Pearson, ISBN: 9781292153599, (2017).
W. Odom, “CCENT/CCNA ICND1 100-105 Official Cert Guide, Academic Edition”, Cisco Press, ISBN: 978-1-58720-597-2 (2016)
W. Odom, “CCNA Routing and Switching ICND2 200-105 Official Cert Guide, Academic Edition”, Cisco Press, ISBN: 978-1-58720-579-8 (2016)
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
The module aims to cover the following subject-specific skills. Some skills will be enhanced further in the following years based on the chosen stream.
How teams work effectively to produce digital and technology solutions.
Fundamental computer networking concepts in relation to digital and technology solutions. For example, structure, cloud architecture, components, quality of service.
The role and function of virtual or physical network components and functions and typical topologies and service architectures.
The main network protocols in use, their purpose, features and relationship to each other. For example, Ethernet, IP (Internet Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First).
Plan, design and manage simple computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context.
Monitor performance and ensure networks are configured correctly and perform as expected by designers or architects. Undertake capacity management and audit of IP addressing and hosted devices.
Implement computer networks from a design including testing and validation. This includes populating variables in configurations, for example, IP addresses and subsequent application of configuration to equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls.
Apprentices will also exhibit
a strong work ethic and commitment in order to meet the standards required.
Reliable, objective and capable of both independent and team working.
Transferable skills
Students should be able to demonstrate:
- How teams work effectively to produce technology solutions.
- Applies analytical and critical thinking skills to systematically develop, analyse and apply structured problem solving techniques to complex systems and situations.
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 15 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Tutorials | 15 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Work-based learning | 22 sessions of 1 hour (15%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Other activity | 8 hours (5%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
No private study requirements defined for this module.
Other activity description
Other activity (8 hrs): 3hrs live and asynchronous support sessions to answer questions related to the module and its assessment and 5 hrs of self-directed learning during teaching days.
Online learning independent (30): Apprentices use their working hours to revise the contents taught during the module, interact with their peers, and carry out independent research on the taught subjects.
WBL (22 hrs): Apprentices to discuss with their employers their current practices in leveraging computer networks in light of the relevant KSBs.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 60% | 36 hours | Yes (extension) |
|
typically a report of up to 2000 words on network design and implementation plan. |
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| Test | 40% | 24 hours | No |
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The test assesses the fundamentals of Computer networks. |
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Feedback on assessment
Feedback given as appropriate to the assessment type:
- verbal feedback given during lectures and/or seminar sessions,
- verbal formative feedback on lab activities,
- written cohort-level feedback on the examination,
- written summative feedback on post module assessment.
Courses
This module is Core for:
- Year 1 of DWMS-H655 Undergraduate Digital and Technology Solutions (Cyber) (Degree Apprenticeship)
- Year 1 of DWMS-H652 Undergraduate Digital and Technology Solutions (Data Analytics) (Degree Apprenticeship)
- Year 1 of DWMS-H653 Undergraduate Digital and Technology Solutions (Network Engineering) (Degree Apprenticeship)
- Year 1 of DWMS-H654 Undergraduate Digital and Technology Solutions (Software Engineering) (Degree Apprenticeship)