CS3102: Data Communications and Networks
This module is offered in 2023-24.
Aims
The aims of this module are:
- To introduce the basics of data communications and computer networks.
- To examine and understand network protocols and architectures.
- To educate the student in modern networking technologies.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, the student should:
- Understand the rudiments of how computers communicate.
- Be familiar with the architecture of a number of different networks.
- Understand the principles of protocol layering.
- Be familiar with modern communication systems.
- Understand the basic aspects of packet-based protocol design and implementation.
Syllabus
- Data communications:
- Transmission media, data encoding, transmission modes, error detection and correction, flow control, multiplexing, switching techniques, routing.
- Networking:
- Network topologies, protocols, layering, standardisation, LANs, WANs & MANs, internetworking, multihoming, real-time communication, security and privacy.
- Design and implementation of packet-based communication protocols:
- measurement of protocol operation and performance, packet-based protocol design, practical considerations of implementation of protocols in a high-level programming language.
- Study of particular networks and protocols:
- e.g. Ethernet, wireless/IEEE-802.11, ARP, ICMP, IPv6, IPsec, TCP, UDP, RTP/RTCP.
Compulsory Elements
This module has the following compulsory elements in addition to those common to all modules (mark of 4 in each assessment component):
- Attendance at presentations.