module specification

This module develops analytical and practical knowledge and skills for, configuring and managing
Internetworking devices in Local Area Networks. It provides further experience of laboratory team
working and individual trouble shooting.
 

Prerequisite: CT2053N Network Devices (passed)

1. To understand advanced IP addressing techniques
2. To explain the operation of Local Area Network (LAN) protocols and their benefits [A2]
3. To describe LAN segmentation using routers, switches and their benefits [A2]
4. To describe Ethernet networks, operation and limitations [A2]
5. To describe the types of LAN switching and protocols [A2]
6. To understand the concept of virtual LANs and its benefit [A2]
7. To understand Network documentation, security and trouble shooting [A3]

Introduction to Classless Routing:  VLSM, RIP Version 2
Single Area OSPF:  Link-State Routing Protocol, Single Area OSPF Concepts, Single Area OSPF Configuration
EIGRP: EIGRP Concepts, EIGRP Configuration, Troubleshooting Routing Protocols
Switching Concepts:  Introduction to Ethernet/802.3 LANs, Introduction to LAN Switching, Switch Operation
Switches: LAN Design, LAN Switches
Switch Configuration:  Starting the Switch, Configuring the Switch
Spanning-Tree Protocol:  Redundant Topologies, Spanning-Tree Protocol
Virtual LANs:  VLAN Concepts, VLAN Configuration, Troubleshooting VLANs
Virtual Trunking Protocol: Trunking, VTP, Inter-VLAN Routing Overview
Access Control Lists (ACLs)
 

A variety of approaches will be adopted. A standard text, written specially for this unit covers the detailed syllabus. An interactive on-line curriculum will enable students to study the unit and provides end-of-chapter multiple-choice tests with which students can readily test their understanding and obtain immediate feedback. Formal lecture classes will further emphasis the key features of each chapter and provide opportunities for interactive discussion on some of the more important issues of Local Area Network (LAN).
The aim of the laboratory programs is to help students to gain knowledge and skill of designing and implementing Local Area Networks as well as configuring the network infrastructure, such as configuring Routers, Switches and creating VLANs, etc in the Local Area Networks. The tutorials are based on the lecture material which requires development of problem solving and special skills. The case study requires individual work and is assessed by written reports and demonstration. The module is supported by tutor’s website.

[14 hours] Lecture  (learning outcomes 1 to 4)
[50 hours] Lecture-related independent learning  (learning outcomes 1 to 4)
[26 hours] Problem and case study classes  (learning outcomes 1 to 5)
[34 hours] Computer-assisted learning  (learning outcome 1 to 5) [34 hours]
[26 hours] Laboratory Program  (learning outcomes 6 & 7)
[150 hours] Total teaching and learning time

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Describe classless IP addressing scheme, Variable Length Subnet Mask (VLSM)
2. Distinguish the different types of intermediate routing protocols-RIP v2, Single area OSPF and
EIGRP [A2]
3. Describe the concept of LAN segmentation using bridges, routers and switches and their
benefits. [A2, A3]
4. Describe and distinguish the different methods of LAN switching, Virtual LANs, Spanning tree
and VLAN trunking protocol (STP & VTP) [A2]
5. Explain the purpose of Access Control List and its implementation. [A3]
6. Work effectively in a small team to design and demonstrate a simple LANs, VLANs, planning
structured cabling, performance measurement and Network troubleshooting [A2, A3]
7. Plan, execute and report on individual or group programmes of work [A2]

Open book examination: Weekly open book multiple choice test based on the lecture, on line material and tutorial sessions
Closed-book end of unit examination: a 2-hour multiple choice final on line exam based on the lecture notes, on line material and tutorial sessions
Practical assessment: Final practical exam based on weekly practical experiments
Case study: The case study requires individual work, culminating in a written report and a demonstration at the end of the module. This emphasises the importance of the security in Local Area Networks. The case study requires revising the curriculum and researching on ACLs.
 

Cisco Systems Inc (2003), Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Companion Guide, Cisco Press ISBN 1587131137
Cisco Systems Inc (2003), Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Lab Companion, Cisco Press ISBN 1587131145
Cisco Systems Inc (2003), Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Engineering Journal and Workbook, Cisco Press ISBN 1587131153