CT7002 - Introduction to Networks (2024/25)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2024/25 | ||||||||||||||||
| Module title | Introduction to Networks | ||||||||||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | ||||||||||||||||
| School | School of Computing and Digital Media | ||||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 200 | ||||||||||||||||
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| Running in 2024/25(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module introduces the architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements that connect users, devices, applications and data through the Internet and across modern computer networks - including IP addressing and Ethernet fundamentals. By the end of the course, students can build simple local area networks (LAN) that integrate IP addressing schemes, foundational network security, and perform basic configurations for routers and switches.
Student will:
• Explain network technologies.
• Explain how devices access local and remote network resources.
• Describe router hardware.
• Explain how switching operates in a small to medium-sized business network.
• Design an IP addressing scheme to provide network connectivity for a small to medium-sized business network.
• Configure initial settings on a network device.
• Implement basic network connectivity between devices.
Prior learning requirements
Not available for Study Abroad
Syllabus
Basic Switch and End-Device Configuration
Computer Network Protocols and Models
Physical Layer
Data Link Layer
Ethernet Switching
Network Layer
Address Resolution
Basic Router Configuration
IPv4 Addressing
Transport Layer
Application Layer
Network Security Fundamentals
Understanding of the professional, legal, social and ethical framework regarding Information Security
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Module is delivered once a week in a four-hour session. Usually two-hour lecture is followed by two hours of laboratory work. Students are provided with access to the on-line curriculum (Netacad ) and are encouraged to read the material prior to lecture sessions. On the completion of lectures on specific topics students take regular in class tests for which they get an automated and/or in-person feedback. Lectures are heavily supported by hands-on relevant laboratory work such as Device Audit and Hardening, AAA and Site-to-Site VPN configurations. Students are encouraged to keep a logbook and record the summary of their practical work for reflective learning. Students are required to regularly complete advanced labs to assess their understanding.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
• LO1. Develop a strong theoretical and practical grounding in all aspects of networking, understand how computer networks work, and the principles behind them , with a particular focus on local area networks (LANs)
• LO2. Develop the practical skills needed to configure network devices such as routers and switches.
• LO3. Understand the data protocols used in networks and understand data flow.
• LO4. Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills using real equipment and network simulators.
Bibliography
Introduction To Networks companion guide (CCNAv7) - Cisco Academy, Cisco Networking Academy Program, 2020
Book | Core
CCNA 200-301 portable command guide - Scott D. Empson, 2020
Book | Additional Reading
CCNA 200-301 official Cert guide: volume 1 - Wendell Odom, 2020
Book | Additional Reading
CCNA 200-301 official Cert guide: volume 2 - Wendell Odom, 2020
Book | Additional Reading
Introduction to networks: Labs and study guide (CCNAv7) - Allan Johnson, Cisco Networking Academy Program, 2020
Book | Additional Reading
Switching, routing, and wireless essentials labs and study guide (CCNAv7) - Allan Johnson, 2021
Book | Additional Reading