module specification

This module aims to provide students with the technical background and skills necessary to design and configure and maintain wireless LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks). Knowledge of LANs and WANs is essential across various industries, enabling secure communication, data management, and operational efficiency. In healthcare, LANs connect medical devices and records within hospitals, while WANs enable secure data exchange, telemedicine, and compliance with regulations. The education sector uses LANs for campus networking and WANs for remote learning and institutional collaboration. In finance and banking, LANs manage transactions and cybersecurity, while WANs link branches and support online banking. Retail and e-commerce rely on LANs for inventory and POS systems, while WANs connect stores, warehouses, and online platforms. Similarly, manufacturing and supply chains use LANs for automation and real-time tracking, while WANs coordinate global logistics.

This module focuses on the design of these networks the devices used and their operation, the planning prior to installation and best practices, the implementation of the network design, security provisions and troubleshooting of Wireless LAN issues. The module covers the necessary background through formal lectures/seminars followed by comprehensive hands-on practical workshops.

Introduction to Wireless LAN standards, (802.11 Historical and new (a,b,g and n ac)) 
the operation of the Network Interface Cards, Wireless Radio Technology, Wireless Topologies, Access Points, Bridges, Antennas, Security, Concept of Network Traffic / Queuing theory, Application, Design and Site Survey Preparation, 
Site Survey, Troubleshooting Management, Diagnostics, the latest developments and new emergent technologies.

Module is delivered in a single session of 3 hours weekly through traditional lecture (1 hour) augmented by closely linked laboratory work and tutorial and case study development (2 hours).  All the teaching material for the lectures and tutorials are available online through Weblearn (VLE) allowing students to read ahead at home for interactive discussion with tutors during tutorial/practical sessions. For practical work on installation and configuration of hardware software components, additional lab handouts are provided. Regular progress tests with spot-feedback help students to check their performance and adapt their study plans. Students are made aware of module leader’s office hours (via WebLearn VLE) for quick queries and consultation.

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

LO1:  Describe wireless radio technologies, topologies and IEEE 802.11 wireless standards.
LO2:  Select appropriate wireless network equipment recognising their limitations to configure and install wireless access points, bridges, adapters, and antennae.
LO3:  Apply systems approach to the solution of complex WLAN problems through appropriate design, installation, configuration and monitoring giving due consideration to professional, ethical and legal issues.
LO4:  Use appropriate risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate wireless security threats and vulnerabilities and adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks
LO5:  Evaluate emerging wireless technologies in a professional and responsible manner while working as a team demonstrating effective communication/inter-personal skills, management and leadership attributes and taking into consideration the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion.

CT6052 Wireless Networks (Cisco) | London Metropolitan University