41905 Software Defined Networks
Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a
particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source
of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.
Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks
Requisite(s): ((31277 Routing and Switching Essentials OR 48740 Communications Networks) AND 41039 Programming 1)
Recommended studies:
Unix-like operating systems; Python programming.
Description
The rapid rise in internet traffic and services introduced a tremendous amount of pressure on telecommunication network providers. The rate of progress in network technologies has been recognised as slow to keep up with the emerging data demands. Both industry and academia have been working on new solutions for networking technologies, which can provide long terms scalability and extensibility. Software Defined Networking (SDN) is a new framework, which is believed to be the answer to the above need. SDN has already made an impact in data centres and enterprise networks and it is seen as a key technology to improve performance and extensibility both at core and access side of networking technologies. Consequently, there is a significant demand from the industry for network engineers with SDN skills. This subject introduces students to SDN and programming SDN applications. Students learn the major concepts in SDN, Network Function Virtualisation (NFV) and learn to develop applications over leading SDN controller through hands-on labs and exercises.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Design, program, simulate and implement Software Defined Networking applications. (C.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Differentiate and evaluate Software Defined Networking Architectures, Controller Environments, Application Programming Interfaces and Platforms. (D.1) |
| 3. | Use tools for modelling Software Defined Networks. (D.1) |
| 4. | Use case scenarios to explain Network Function Virtualisation technologies, applications and benefits. (D.1) |
| 5. | Present project investigation, design and implementation to technical and lay audience. (E.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)
- Collaborative and Communicative: FEIT graduates work as an effective member or leader of diverse teams, communicating effectively and operating within cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural contexts in the workplace. (E.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:
- 1.3. In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within 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.
- 3.2. Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains.
Teaching and learning strategies
This subject is a combination of lectures and hands-on laboratory activities. The classes involve active learning where the students will work collaboratively in a project assignment and in practical activities such as working in weekly hands-on labs.
Lab tasks are designed for students to work individually in a process of observation, application and demonstration followed by evaluation and feedback. Feedback is provided during every lab session and also once the lab reports are marked. The assessment tasks are designed to support learning. Through participating in quizzes and hands-on practical labs and a collaborative assignment, students receive feedback to enhance their learning experience. Students are encouraged to provide feedback to their peers. Lecturer feedback is available at all times. Students are expected to attend all timetabled lab classes.
Content (topics)
- Introduction to SDN
- SDN Architectures
- SDN Controllers and Switches
- Mininet Emulation Environment
- Zodiac OpenFlow Switch
- SDN Southbound Protocols
- Linux Virtual Network Topology Creation
- Network Function Virtualisation
- SDN and NFV Application and Scenarios
- Introduction to Python Networking
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Lab Exercises
| Intent: | The lab presentations will provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to develop SDN scripts and applications and record keeping strategies. |
|---|---|
| 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): C.1 and D.1 |
| Type: | Laboratory/practical |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
Assessment task 2: Quizzes
| Intent: | The quiz will assess the student’s knowledge about the theoretical aspects of the subject. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 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: | 50% |
Assessment task 3: Project Report
| Intent: | The student will work on an SDN project, where they will apply the skills learnt in class as well as their own research in SDN. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 3 and 5 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1, D.1 and E.1 |
| Type: | Project |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 20% |
Minimum requirements
In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more.