Overview

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 Strategy

-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, relevant 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

• Build a simple Ethernet network using routers and switches.

• Describe the devices and services used to support communications in data networks and the Internet.

• Describe the importance of addressing and naming schemes at various layers of data networks in IPv4 and IPv6 environments.

• Describe the role of protocol layers in data networks.

• Design, calculate, and apply subnet masks and addresses to fulfill given requirements in IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

• Use Cisco command-line interface (CLI) commands to perform basic router and switch configurations.