Data Communications and Networks

Course aim

To develop sound understanding of data communications and networking concepts, techniques, equipment and software. To develop an appreciation of the Internet architecture and protocols, as well as a sound understanding of the protocol mechanisms employed at the IP and Transport layers of the Internet.

Course content

Basic concepts in data communications and networking: access and core networks, circuit and packet switching, protocol reference models, protocol layers, standardisation. Example communication systems and networks.
The Physical Layer: signals and channels, channel capacity, transmission media, digital modulation, multiplexing. Low level communication mechanisms: serial vs. parallel, synchronous vs. asynchronous, example standards. Data access via public telecommunication networks .
Data Link Layer: purpose and functions, principles of error detection and correction, stop-and-wait and sliding window protocol mechanisms, example protocols.
Medium Access Control: static vs. dynamic channel allocation, multiple access protocols. Ethernet and Wireless LANs technologies. Overview of wireless data access technologies. LAN equipment: hubs, switches.
The Network Layer: purpose and functions, routing, congestion control, quality of service. The Network Layer in the Internet: IPv4 protocol and IP addressing, IPv6, routing in the Internet, Mobile IP.
The Transport Layer: transport layer services, transport layer protocol mechanisms, UDP and TCP protocols.
The Application Layer: overview of the Domain Name System, Electronic Mail, World Wide Web and HTTP, Streaming Audio and Video.
Overview of network security: basics of cryptography, symmetric- and public-key algorithms, digital signatures, key management, securing networks.

Textbook(s)

Tanenbaum, A. S., Wetherall, D. J. 2010, Computer Networks, 5, Pearson, ISBN-13: 978-0-13-212695-3, ISBN-10: 0-13-212695-8

Prerequisite(s)

Nil

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Assignment, Participation in practicals and practical reports (6 practicals), Practical reports (6 practicals) , Quiz, Written examination

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
Non-award tuition fees are set by the university. To determine the cost of this course, go to:
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* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.