Module ICE-2401:
Computer Systems & Networks

Module Facts

Run by School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering

20 Credits or 10 ECTS Credits

Semester 2

Organiser: Dr Saad Mansoor

Overall aims and purpose

To provide students:

  • experience with IP-based networks and internetworks.
  • an understanding of IP addresses, subnets.
  • the ability to distinguish between different network hardware; adapters, routers, switches, hubs, gateways etc.
  • an understanding of the OSI-model and where various operations fall in that model.

Course content

Indicative content includes:

  • IP Addressing and Subnets and structures of networks.
  • Routing and Switching, and operation of packet-based networls.
  • Transport protocols (TCP and UDP) and their operation.
  • Higher-level protocols (HTTP, SMTP, etc.) and relation to low-level protocols.
  • Message formats and encoding; translating application data to network forms.
  • Connection to networks and adapters; hardware used.
  • WiFi (wireless LANs)

Assessment Criteria

threshold

Equivalent to 40%. Uses key areas of theory or knowledge to meet the Learning Outcomes of the module. Is able to formulate an appropriate solution to accurately solve tasks and questions. Can identify individual aspects, but lacks an awareness of links between them and the wider contexts. Outputs can be understood, but lack structure and/or coherence.

good

Equivalent to the range 60%-69%. Is able to analyse a task or problem to decide which aspects of theory and knowledge to apply. Solutions are of a workable quality, demonstrating understanding of underlying principles. Major themes can be linked appropriately but may not be able to extend this to individual aspects. Outputs are readily understood, with an appropriate structure but may lack sophistication.

excellent

Equivalent to the range 70%+. Assemble critically evaluated, relevent areas of knowledge and theory to constuct professional-level solutions to tasks and questions presented. Is able to cross-link themes and aspects to draw considered conclusions. Presents outputs in a cohesive, accurate, and efficient manner.

Learning outcomes

  1. Distinguish different roles for devices on a network, including hubs, switches, routers, and gateways.

  2. Differentiate layers of the OSI model and the actions each layer contains.

  3. Apply rules for IP addressing and subnetting to given network scenarios.

  4. Differentiate high-level and transport-layer protocols and their place within networks.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
Protocol/Information Exchange Report 25
Network Inventory and Catalogue Report 35
Unseen Examination 40

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Laboratory

Practical laboratory (1 hr x 12)

 12
Private study

Private study including completing assessments.

 164
Lecture

Traditional Lecture (2 x 1 hr x 12 weeks)

 24

Transferable skills

  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
  • Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.

Subject specific skills

  • Use of such knowledge in modelling and design
  • Deploy theory in design, implementation and evaluation of systems
  • Knowledge of information security issues
  • Knowledge of systems architecture
  • Specify, deploy, verify and maintain information systems
  • System Design
  • Knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles
  • Knowledge and understanding of computational modelling
  • Specify, deploy, verify and maintain computer-based systems
  • Principles of appropriate supporting engineering and scientific disciplines

Resources

Talis Reading list

http://readinglists.bangor.ac.uk/modules/ice-2401.html

Reading list

Recommended

  • Practical TCP/IP and Ethernet Networking for Industry, Deon Reynders, ISBN 9780750658065
  • CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide (7th Ed), Mike Meyers, ISBN 9781260122381
  • The Illustrated Network: How TCP/IP Works in a Modern Network, Walter Goralski, ISBN 9780128110270

Courses including this module