Module ICL-1011:
Introduction to Networks
Module Facts
Run by School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering
20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits
Semester 1
Organiser: Dr David Edward Perkins
Overall aims and purpose
This module uses the “Introduction to Networks” section of the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching course to introduce the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and computer networks.
The principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations are introduced to provide a foundation for the remainder of the networking curriculum. The module blends theoretical content with a range of practical exercises such as creating small local area networks (LANs), carrying out basic configurations for routers and switches, and implementing IP addressing schemes.
Course content
Indicative content includes:
- Networking concepts. LANs v WANs. Internet, Client-server, peer-to-peer,
- IP addressing. IPV4, IPV6, sub-netting, VLSM, default gateway
- Network devices. Router, switch, wireless access point (WAP)
- Testing connectivity. Loopback address, end-to-end connectivity, PING, Traceroute
- Networking protocols. OSI 7 layer model, TCP/IP 4 layer model, data encapsulation
- Network media. Copper (UTP, STP), Ethernet, Fibre-optic, wireless
- Media Access Control. Physical v. logical topologies. Star, extended-star, bus, ring, point-to-point. Half v. full duplex.
- Ethernet. MAC addresses, Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
- TCP v UDP. TCP handshake, reliability, flow-control
- Application layer protocols. HTTP/HTTPS, SMTP/POP/IMAP, FTP, SMB, DNS, DHCP
- Basic network security
Assessment Criteria
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.
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.
Learning outcomes
-
Explain the benefit of layered networking models and the place of common network devices and protocols within the models.
-
Troubleshoot and verify connectivity in a small network.
-
Configure switches, routers and end devices in a small network.
-
Explain the role of common network devices in creating a data network
-
Explain the naming and addressing schemes used in data networks and the protocols which allow them to interact.
-
Create IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes.
Assessment Methods
Type | Name | Description | Weight |
---|---|---|---|
Research Report | 30.00 | ||
MGA Open Book / Final Closed Book | 40.00 | ||
Assessed Practical Test | 30.00 |
Teaching and Learning Strategy
Hours | ||
---|---|---|
Laboratory | The classroom sessions take place in dedicated computer hardware networking rooms and include interactive lectures, group discussions, practical labs using network simulator or real hardware, individual and group work. |
60 |
Private study | 140 |
Transferable skills
- Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
- Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
- 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
- Inter-personal - Able to question, actively listen, examine given answers and interact sentistevely with others
- 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.
- Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team
Subject specific skills
- Specify, design or construct computer-based systems
- Evaluate systems in terms of quality and trade-offs
- Deploy tools effectively
- Specify, deploy, verify and maintain information systems
- Defining problems, managing design process and evaluating outcomes
- System Design
- Specify, deploy, verify and maintain computer-based systems
Resources
Talis Reading list
http://readinglists.bangor.ac.uk/modules/icl-1011.htmlReading list
Core Text: Cisco CCNA v7 (available through Cisco Networking Academy)
Further Reading: Stallings, W., 2013, Data and Computer Communications. 10th ed, Pearson Tanenbaum, A and Wetherall, D, 2011, Computer Networks. 5th ed. Pearson
Websites: IETF. 2020. Internet Standards [online] Available at: https://ietf.org/standards/rfcs/
IEEE. 2020. GET 802 standards [online] Available at: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/browse/standards/get-program/page/series?id=68
Courses including this module
Compulsory in courses:
- H115: BSc Applied Cyber Security (Degree Apprenticeship) year 1 (BSC/ACS)
- H119: BSc Applied Cyber Security (Coleg Cambria) year 1 (BSC/ACSC)