41092 Network Fundamentals
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Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Undergraduate
Result type: Grade and marksAnti-requisite(s): 31270 Networking Essentials AND 32524 LANS and Routing AND 48720 Network Fundamentals AND 49202 Communication Protocols
Recommended studies:
basic programming skills, e.g. C++ or Python, are recommended to complete the programming projects
Description
Today's internet is arguably the largest engineered system ever created by humanity, carrying petabytes of data every minute. It is important for data engineers to understand how data is transferred through the internet, and the guiding principles and structures of data transportation designs.
This subject provides students with a modern introduction to the dynamic field of computer networking, including layered network architecture and the TCP/IP protocol suite. Student practical works include observing network traffic in action and building their own network applications through socket programming. Students also have hands-on opportunities to build their own networks using Cisco network equipment.
By developing problem-solving and design skills in this subject, students also acquire the ability to select the most appropriate network services, and design and develop network applications, e.g. web server and client, to achieve the best data performance.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Understand the key architectural principles of the Internet, namely protocol layering and service models. (D.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Analyse various components of the Internet, including Applications, Transport, Network, Addressing, and Data Link, to select the most appropriate network services. (C.1) |
| 3. | Examine and explain end-to-end packet delivery throughout the network system to gain insight into the behaviour of the Internet. (D.1) |
| 4. | Design and implement network applications to provide a service, such as web and email. (C.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 and decision-making methodologies to develop components, systems and processes to meet specified requirements. (C.1)
- Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply abstraction, mathematics and discipline fundamentals, software, tools and techniques to evaluate, implement and operate systems. (D.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies
This subject contributes to the development of the following Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies:
- 1.1. Comprehensive, theory based understanding of the underpinning natural and physical sciences and the engineering fundamentals applicable to the engineering discipline.
- 1.2. Conceptual understanding of the mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, and computer and information sciences which underpin the engineering discipline.
- 2.1. Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
- 2.2. Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.
Teaching and learning strategies
Normal class contact time is 4 hours per week, comprised of a lecture (2 hours) followed by a tutorial/laboratory (2 hours). In the laboratory, a workshop approach is used which combines learning-by-doing, small group and whole class discussion, web research, on-line activities, design and development activities, and question and answer sessions. Student engagement in group work activities requires the involvement and participation of all students. Teamwork that simulates the engineering workplace is strongly encouraged and supported, because communication is integral to the subject.
Pre-class preparation activities include pre-reading the textbook and watching video notes. The tutorials may include quizzes at the start of classes, followed by group discussions on learnt topics, as well as Q&A on critical and/or difficult points. In-class feedback will also be given on the quizzes, assignments, labs, and projects. It is expected that students will need to spend an additional four hours of self-directed study, including reading the textbook, reviewing lecture notes, solving exercise problems, and completing projects.
Content (topics)
1. Computer Networks and the Internet
- What is the Internet
- The network edge and core
- Network performance measures
- Protocol layers
- History of the Internet
2. Application Layer
- Principles of network applications
- Web and HTTP
- Email and DNS
- Socket Programming: Creating Network Applications
3. Transport Layer
- Introduction of transport-layer services
- Connectionless transport: UDP
- Principles of reliable data transfer
- Connection oriented transport: TCP
- Principles of Congestion Control
4. The Network Layer: Data Plane
- Network service models
- What’s inside a router
- The Internet Protocol (IP)
- IPv4 and IPv6 addressing
5. The Network Layer: Control Plane
- Routing algorithms
- Intra-AS routing: OSPF
- Inter-AS routing: BGP
- ICMP and SNMP
6. The Link Layer
- Link layer services and implementations
- Error Detection and Correction Techniques
- Multiple access links and protocols
- Switched LAN: Ethernet and VLANs
- Retrospective: A Day in the Life of a Web Page Request
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Labs
| Intent: | Wireshark and hands-on Labs: Experiments, observations, and analysis |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): D.1 |
| Type: | Laboratory/practical |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 10% |
Assessment task 2: Projects
| Intent: | Build design, development, and implementation skills. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 and D.1 |
| Type: | Project |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 10% |
Assessment task 3: Assignments
| Intent: | Test conceptual understanding, problem solving skills and facilitate self-assessment. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 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: | 15% |
| Length: | Short-answer questions |
Assessment task 4: Quiz
| Intent: | Test conceptual understanding, problem solving skills and facilitate self-assessment. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 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: | 20% |
Assessment task 5: Final Exam
| Intent: | Test concept understanding, problem solving skills, overall assessment. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1 and D.1 |
| Type: | Examination |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 45% |
Minimum requirements
In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more.
Required texts
Kurose, J. & Ross, K. Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach, Global Edition, 8th Edition, Pearson, 2022
ebook: https://www.pearson.com/store/p/computer-networking-global-edition/P100003086736/9781292419978