32011 Multilayer Switched Networks
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Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Postgraduate
Result type: Grade and marksRequisite(s): ( 32524 LANS and Routing OR (31277 Routing and Switching Essentials AND 30 credit points of completed study in spk(s): MAJ03445 Networking and Cybersecurity major BSc))
Description
This subject complements and extends the theory and practice learned by completing the prerequisites subjects. This subject extends skills and knowledge in the design and implementation of switched campus networks using VLANs for performance, reliability, management and security. Various methods regarding planning, configuring, and verifying the implementation of complex enterprise switching solutions are explored. Practical work is done on Cisco Systems layer 2 and layer 3 switches. The related topics are widely related to CCNP Enterprise: Core Networking (ENCOR). The subject is run in the UTS Cisco Systems Network Academy.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Evaluate the design benefits and limitations of switched campus networks by applying knowledge of the theoretical characteristics of different high-speed switched network technologies. (C.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Apply appropriate switched network technologies to meet needs of switched networks. (C.1) |
| 3. | Apply troubleshooting steps to solve problems encountered in switched LANs. (D.1) |
| 4. | Explain to technically informed people the merits of different modes of network configurations. (D.1) |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):
- Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design thinking and decision-making methodologies in new contexts or to novel problems, to explore, test, analyse and synthesise complex ideas, theories or concepts. (C.1)
- Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply theoretical, conceptual, software and physical tools and advanced discipline knowledge to research, evaluate and predict future performance of systems characterised by complexity. (D.1)
Teaching and learning strategies
4 contact hours per week, consisting of lecture and a combined tutorial and laboratory session.
Most factual contents are available as online course materials with e-laboratories, pre-tests and other learning support activities. Students are required to study the online materials and complete any assigned activities before class so that informed debate on issues is possible. Instructors will conduct classes on the understanding that all students have completed the required pre-study, and will make use of this pre-study during the class time.
Lab activities plays significant role to enhance students’ understanding on knowledge learnt in lecture and improve students’ hands-on skills. Students are strongly encouraged to complete the lab activities in networking labs in UTS campus. If lab access is not available in certain cases, students are suggested to complete the necessary lab activities using software recommended.
The subject is run in the UTS Cisco Systems Network Academy. The subject is part of a sequence which will allow students to prepare for CCNP industry certification.
Expected commitment time: 7 hours/week. Additional time will be required on the assignments.
Content (topics)
- Packet Forwarding
- Spanning Tree Protocol
- VLAN Trunking and Ethernet Channel
- Network Assurance
- Network Device Access Control
- Infrastructure Security
- Network Redundancy
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Weekly Chapter Online tests
| Intent: | This assessment provides an opportunity to students for self-reflection, self-preview and self-review. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 |
| Type: | Exercises |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 10% |
Assessment task 2: Mid-Semester Quiz 1
| Intent: | This early session assessment is designed to give students feedback in terms of what they learn by the middle of semester so that students can adjust their learning strategy and improve their learning efficiency. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 |
| Type: | Quiz/test |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 20% |
| Length: | Maximum 45 mins |
Assessment task 3: Skill Based Assessment
| Intent: | As a final practical assessment, this assessment task evaluates students' competency on their hands-on skills. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 and D.1 |
| Type: | Laboratory/practical |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | 2 Hours |
Assessment task 4: End-of-semester Quiz 2
| Intent: | This assessment is to evaluate students' overall performance of achieving the subject learning objectives. It focuses on knowledge and conceptual understanding. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 and D.1 |
| Type: | Quiz/test |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | 2 hours |
Minimum requirements
In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more.
Required texts
Edgeworth Brad, Rios Ramiro Garza, Hucaby David, Gooley Jason, CCNP and CCIE Enterprise Core ENCOR 350-401 Official Cert Guide, Cisco Press (2019)
References
Edgeworth, Brad; Jain, Vinit; Riapolov, Bradley,CCNP and CCIE Enterprise Core ENCOR 350-401 Complete Video Course, Pearson IT Certification; 2020; 1st edition
(UTS Library access: https://search.lib.uts.edu.au/permalink/61UTS_INST/dkgal6/alma991006927650705671)
Other resources
Cisco Academy and Examination Website: https://www.netacad.com
Online support for this subject will be provided through https://canvas.uts.edu.au/