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 a 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.

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

• Introduction
• Networked applications
• Reliable data delivery
• Routing and forwarding
• Subnetting and VLSM
• Local area networks
• Resource allocation
• Mobility
• Network Security principles

Learning outcomes

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

• Articulate the key principles behind the organisation and operation of typical communication networks and layered protocols using domain terminology.
• Understand network designs for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Configure network devices to achieve the required operating characteristics.
• Outline network diagrams and implement appropriate addressing schemes at a sub-network level.
• Explain network behaviour from captured network traffic.
• Apply network security principles and best practices to enhance the security posture of networks.

Indicative reading list

Stallings, William. Computer Organization and Architecture, Global Edition, Pearson Education LTD (2022)

A, Jesin. Packet Tracer Network Simulator, Packt Publishing, Limited (2014).

Kurose, J., & Ross, K., " Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (7th Edition)". Pearson Education Limited (2016)

Howser, G. "Computer Networks and the Internet: A hands-on approach. Cham, Switzerland: Springer (2020)

Stallings, W., Brown, L., “Computer Security: Principles and Practice, Global Edition”, Pearson Education Limited (2018)

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Students should be able to know:

• The process of planning, designing and managing computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context.
• The fundamental building blocks (e.g. routers, switches, hubs) and typical architectures (e.g. server/client) of computers, networks and the Internet.
• The main features of routing and Internet network protocols in use, their purpose and relationship to each other, including the physical and data link layer (e.g. HTTP, SMTP, SNMP, TCP, IP, etc.).
• The main factors that affect network performance (e.g. the relationship between bandwidth, number of users, nature of traffic, contention).
• The ability to plan, design and manage computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context.
• The issues that may arise in the day-to-day operation of networks and how to resolve them.
• The security configurations and best practices for maintaining a secure network.

Transferable skills

Students should be able to demonstrate:

• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking
• Communication Skills
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Ethical Awareness
• Leadership