module specification

This module focuses on fundamental network terminology and concepts including 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, VLANs and inter-VLAN routing
• To enable students to perform subnetting of IPv4 addresses and introduction to IPv6.
• To gain an in-depth understanding of static routing protocols and default routing.
• To gain an in-depth understanding of end-to-end connectivity using routers and switches and their security.
• To gain experience in designing router’s configuration for a given specification.
• To gain understanding of redundancy in a switched network.

Network Connectivity and Communications,
Ethernet Technologies and Ethernet Switching,
Communicating Between Networks,
IP Addressing and Subnetting,
Network Application Communications,
Building and Securing a Small Network,
Switching Concepts,
VLANs,
Inter-VLAN routing,
Redundant Networks,
Engineering Knowledge,
Mitigating Network Security Risk, and
Quality Management.

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, syntax checker and interactive multimedia activities are also available to encourage deep thinking and self-development of students. Web support is available to students through web learn.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
LO1. Describe and classify computer networks and use appropriate technical literature to select appropriate networking devices/equipment that satisfy certain network parameters.
LO2. Application of OSI and TCP/IP layer model in the development of complex computer network scenarios with an understanding of the importance of quality management systems and continuous network improvement.
LO3. Configure, monitor and troubleshoot operations of routers, switches etc. in a small network including best practices used to mitigate network security risks.
LO4. Design and implement Local Area Networks for a given customer specification using various network devices/equipment, recognising their limitations. Consideration to be given to health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters (intellectual property rights), codes of practice and industry standards. Results to be communicated in written form. This will be a group activity.
LO5. Plan and record self-learning and development for lifelong learning/continuing professional development.

The module is assessed by formative and summative assessments as below:

Formative Assessments

Diagnostic Test (L02)
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.

Theory Exam 1 (LO1)
This exam is to assess the theoretical aspects of the subjects that students learnt during autumn semester.

Summative Assessments

Practical Exam_Part1 (LO2 to LO4)
The purpose of this practical exam to assess students on the basic networking concepts. Students are expected to configure basic networking commands, IP addressing, testing connectivity and basic troubleshooting.

Practical Exam_Part 2 (LO2 to LO4)
The purpose of this exam is to assess students on basic routing and switching protocols and their concepts.

End of Chapter Tests (LO1)
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.

Logbook & Learning Reflection (LO5)
This will help they students plan and record self-learning and development.

https://londonmet.rl.talis.com/modules/ct4004.html

Core Texts:
Module material is available online from www.netacad.com to the registered students on this module using individual user id and password.

• Cisco Systems Inc., “Introduction to Networks Companion Guide(CCNAv7)”
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials Companion Guide (CCNAv7)”
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Introduction to Networks Labs and Study Guide”
• Cisco Systems Inc., “Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials Lab and Study Guide”, (3rd Ed.)
• Todd Lammle (2019), Understanding Cisco Networking Technologies, Volume 1: Exam 200-301 (CCNA Certification), Sybex; 1st edition (24 Dec. 2019), ISBN-10: 1119659027, ISBN-13: 978-1119659020

Other Texts:
• Cisco Systems Inc., “CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1”- Book by Wendell Odom
• Cisco Systems Inc., “CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2”- Book by Wendell Odom
• Todd Lammle (2019), Understanding Cisco Networking Technologies, Volume 2: Exam 200-301 (CCNA Certification), Sybex; 1st edition (24 Dec. 2019), ISBN-10: 1119677610, ISBN-13: 978-1119677611
• 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/

LinkedIn Learning : https://www.linkedin.com/learning