module specification

This module focuses on fundamental network terminology and concepts, e.g. protocols, Open System Interconnection (OSI) and TCP/IP models, Ethernet, Internet Protocol (IP) addressing, routing protocols and network devices, such as routers and switches.  The module provides an opportunity for students to understand the interconnections of various networks and be able to design and configure small-scaled networks based on typical (customer’s) requirements.

The aims of the modules are as follows:
• To provide a firm understanding of networking terminology, models and mathematics
• To introduce students to copper, optical, and wireless networking
• To introduce the concepts of Ethernet switching
• To enable students to perform subnetting of IP addresses
• To gain an in-depth understanding of static routing protocols and default routing
• To gain an in-depth understanding of dynamic routing protocols
• To gain experience in designing router’s configuration for a given specification

Networking Fundamentals, Networking Media , Cable Testing, Design of LANs and WANs LO1-3
The OSI model and data encapsulation LO3-7
Ethernet Technologies, Ethernet Switching, LO3,LO5
TCP/IP Protocol Suite and IP Addressing, Subneting, LO4-7
LAN devices and technologies, LO4-7
Routing Fundamentals and Router components, LO1-2,LO4
Routing protocols and router configuration LO4-7
CDP and basic Networking testing, troubleshooting LO1-3, LO7

Students are provided with access to the on-line curriculum and encouraged to read the material prior to lecture sessions. On the completion of a lecture on specific chapter, students take a test for which they get an automated and/or in-person feedback. Lectures are supported by hands-on laboratory work and tutorial sessions. Electronic simulations, quizzes and interactive multimedia activities are also available to encourage deep thinking and self-development of students. Web support is available to students through the web learn.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
LO1. Describe and classify computer networks and appreciate networking protocols
LO2. To be able to connect various network devices and build & configure a simple LAN involving troubleshoot of IP addressing scheme either individually or through team effort demonstrating adaptable planning & management of time, tasks, resources through effective communication and inter-personal skills
LO3. To be able to examine the OSI and TCP/IP layers in detail to understand their functions and services within a network.
LO4. To be able to configure and troubleshoot basic operations of routers in a small routed network
LO5. To be able to configure and troubleshoot basic operations of switches in a small switched network.
LO6. To be able to configure, monitor and troubleshoot basic security in a small network giving due consideration to professional code of conduct, safe and ethical operation
LO7. To be able to troubleshoot common issues with various routed and routing protocols in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks and be able to present the outcomes to the tutor effectively in written and/or oral form

Summative Assessments:
• CCNA-1 Practical Exam (50%), (LO1 to LO4)
The purpose of this practical exam to assess students on the basic networking concepts. Students are expected to configure basic networking commands, testing connectivity and basic troubleshooting.
• CCNA-2 Practical Exam (50%), (LO5 to LO7)
The purpose of this exam is to assess students on various routing and switching protocols and their concepts.

Formative Assessments:
• Diagnostic Test (LO1)
This test should be taken by week 4. It tests students’ understanding of very basic networking concepts and to provide an early feedback mechanism for maximising students’ engagement within the module.
• End of Chapter Tests (LO2 to LO7)
At the end each chapter there is a chapter test which examines students’ knowledge for that specific topic. Students are encouraged to take such self-paced tests regularly throughout the year.
• Theory Exam 1 (LO1 to LO4)
This exam is to assess the theoretical aspects of the subjects that students learnt during autumn semester.
• Theory Exam 2 (LO5 to LO7)
This exam is to assess the theoretical aspects of the subjects that students learnt during spring semester

Core Texts: The following course material are available on-line for registered students:
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 1 and 2 Companion Guide”, (3rd Ed.)
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 1 and 2 Lab Companion”, (3rd Ed.)
• Todd Lammle (2011), CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate study guide (7 ed), Wiley, ISBN: 9781118088043, http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/record=b1695996~S1

Other Texts:
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Companion Guide”, (3rd Ed.)
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Lab Companion”, (3rd Ed.)
• James F. Kurose, Keith W. Ros (2013), Computer networking: a top-down approach (6 ed), ISBN: 9780273775638
http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/record=b1677132~S1

Journals:
• IET networks
http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/record=b1942231~S1
• IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking
http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/record=b1990581~S2
• ACM transactions on Internet technology http://catalogue.londonmet.ac.uk/record=b1929933~S2

Websites:
• Cisco Networking Academy: https://www.netacad.com/
• University Library website: https://student.londonmet.ac.uk/library/
• Subject guides and research support: https://student.londonmet.ac.uk/library/subject

Electronic Databases:
• IEEE Xplore / IET Digital Library (IEL):
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/Xplore/home.jsp
• Wiley Online Library:
https://0-www-onlinelibrary-wiley-com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/

Social Media Sources
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

Other
Lynda: http://www.lynda.com/