6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Chief examiner(s)
Unit guides
Synopsis
The unit introduces computer networks with an explicit software and system-centric focus. It provides foundation skills in data communications, networks, and associated software interfaces, and introduces basic principles in network design, configuration, management and security.
Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:
- analyse critically the network architecture standards for open systems;
- analyse critically and apply the ISO reference and Internet models;
- implement programs using internetworking concepts, IP addressing, IPC and socket-level interface;
- analyse critically the fundamentals and technologies of cabled and wireless physical layer;
- analyse critically the fundamentals and technologies of cabled and wireless data-link layer;
- analyse critically and implement the fundamentals and technologies of the network layer, including packet-switching and queueing concepts;
- analyse critically and implement designs based on the functions and architectures of cabled and wireless LAN and WAN, including ALOHA and CSMA/CD/CA models;
- implement and evaluate system level designs based on LAN architecture for organisational requirements.
Assessment
Examination (2 hours): 60%; In-semester assessment: 40%
Workload requirements
Minimum total expected workload equals 12 hours per week comprising:
- Contact hours for on-campus students:
- Two hours lectures
- Two hours laboratories
- One hour tutorials
- Additional requirements (all students):
- A minimum of 7 hours of personal study per week in order to satisfy the reading, tute, prac and assignment expectations.
See also Unit timetable information