SSST - Computer Networks and Telecommunications

Computer Networks and Telecommunications

Computer Science

Information Systems

Programme(s) where module is offered

BSc Computer Science with Electrical Engineering
BSc Computer Science with Economics
BSc Computer Science with Management
BSc Computer Science with International Relations
BSc Computer Science with Political Science
BSc Information Systems with Electrical Engineering
BSc Information Systems with Economics
BSc Information Systems with Management
BSc Information Systems with International Relations
BSc Information Systems with Political Science;

Status (core, option, free choice)

Core

FHEQ Level

Unit Value

8 ECTS

Semester taught

Spring

Pre-Requisite Modules or Qualifications

None

Module Code

CSIS235

Module coordinator

Darko Sinanović

Applicable From

2016

Educational Aims of the Module

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the concepts, techniques and practices of Computer Networking and Telecommunications.
The intent is to make the students learn the basic concepts of layered network architecture, topologies, protocols, transmission principles, etc., to learn the main tasks of each layer and their methods of accomplishing the tasks, and to ensure students have knowledge of most common protocols in a layered network architectureand their use in today’s networks.
The module also gives good coverage of addressing and designing LAN networks and subnets.
The aim is to provide an understanding of a variety of networking-related concepts and their relationships, so future engineers can prepare themselves for successful planning, design, analysis, programming, and maintenance of computer networks.
To learn IT job skills, i.e. how to configure equipment, it’s not a module goal, but hands-on tools will be used in labs to deepen students’ understanding of protocols covered inmodule and designing LAN networks.

Module Outline/Syllabus

Basics of Networking: Introduction to Network applications; Network hardware and software; Types of networks; Network topologies; Architecture of Internet; OSI/ISO and TCP/IP model; Example networks: PSTN, Ethernet, xDSL, Cable
Physical layer: Transmission mediaand connectors; Introductions to signals, Bandwidth Nyquist’s theorem, Modulation and Multiplexing; Introduction to switching
Data Link Layer: Framing; Error and Flow control; Error codes; ARQ
The Medium Access Control Sublayer (MAC): Resource allocation; Multiple access protocols; Collision detection and avoidance; LAN technologies: Ethernet and WiFi; Devices and switching; Collision domains; Backward learning and Spanning tree
Network layer: Connection-oriented vs. Connectionless services; Internetworking; IP: addressing v4 and v6; masks and subnetting; NAT, ARP, ICMP, DHCP; Routing algorithms and protocols; Congestion control and QoS;
Transport layer: Ports; Error and Flow control; TCP; 3-way handshake; UDP; Congestion Control;
Application layer: DNS; Mail (POP3, SMTP, MAP); Web (HTTP, HTTPS); Streaming multimedia, Content delivery

Student Engagement Hours

Type	Number per Term	Duration	Total Time
Lectures	30	2 hours	60 hours
Tutorials	15	2 hours	30 hours
Total Guided/Independent Learning Hours			110
Total Contact Hours			90
Total Engagement Hours			200

Assessment Method Summary

Type	Number Required	Duration / Length	Weighting	Timing / Submission Deadline
Final exam	1	180 minutes	50%	End of semester
Mid-term exam	1	90 minutes	20%	Mid-semester
Lab +homework assignment	4	1,500 words	12%	Every2-3 weeks
Project (group)	1	2,000 words	10%	Week 14
Quiz	2	60 minutes	8%	Twice in semester

Module Outcomes

Teaching and Learning Strategy:

Lectures on module material
Practical problems and laboratory sessions with appropriate tools and practice problems
Individual lab assignments to integrate theoretical concepts with practical skills
Laboratory sessions with tutor-lead support
Individual assignments
Group Project assignment
Note taking at lectures & elsewhere
Lab exercises and tutorials
Individual assignments
Group Project assignment

Assessment Strategy

Quiz
Mid-term exam
Lab + homework assignment
Project (group)
Final exam

Key Texts and/or other learning materials

Set text

Andrew Tanenbaum: Computer Networks, fifth edition, Pearson, ISBN-13: 978-1-29202-422-6
Cisco learning materials available online

Supplementary Materials

Kurose and Ross: Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach, 6/e, Pearson, ISBN-13: 9780132856201
Behrouz A. Forouzan: Data Communications and Networking, McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math; 5th edition; ISBN-13: 978-0073376226 with corresponding presentations available online
Barrie Sosinsky: Networking Bible, first edition, Wiley, ISBN-13: 978-0470431313
Articles related to networks and telecommunications in International Journals (IEEE, Elsevier, ACM, JSCSE)

Please note

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the module and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module and programme can be found in the departmental or programme handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed annually by the University of Buckingham and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency.

Date of Production : Autumn 2016

Date approved by School Learning and Teaching Committee: 28th September 2016

Date approved by School Board of Study : 12th October 2016

Date approved by University Learning and Teaching Committee: 2nd November 2016

Date of Annual Review: December 2017

SSST Subjects