Networks and Network Security - COMP8740

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2024 to 2025
Canterbury
Autumn Term 7 15 (7.5) Virginia Franqueira checkmark-circle

Overview

Introduction, including a review of network techniques, switching and multiple access. High speed local area networks. Network protocols, including data link, network, transport and application layers and their security issues. Problems of network security and mechanisms used to provide security such as firewalls and network security protocols. Real time data transmission and quality of service. Naming and addressing and related security concerns. Security of IEEE 802.11 networks.

Details

Contact hours

Total contact hours: 30
Private study hours: 120
Total study hours: 150

Method of assessment

Computer-based test (app. 1 hour) (20%)
Problem solving exercises (30%)
Examination (2-hours) (50%)

Indicative reading

Tanenbaum, A.S. and Weatherall, D.J., "Computer Networks", (5th ed), Prentice-Hall, (2011);
Stallings, W., "Data and Computer Communications", (10th ed), Prentice-Hall, (2014);
Kurose, J. and Ross, K., “Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach”, (7th ed), Pearson, (2017)

See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Be capable of comparing and contrasting a wide range of switching, multiple access and transmission techniques used in current communication networks in order to assess their suitability for various applications;
2 Be aware of current developments in the Internet, especially protocols that expand the addressing space, and offer scalable routing and multicasting;
3 Be aware of the various protocols and architectures used by the Internet including those used to transport real time data streams and to support network Quality of Service;
4 Be aware of the mechanisms used to maintain basic network security;
5 Have a deeper and integrated understanding of selected key topics at the forefront of this field, including recent developments and outstanding issues;
6 Have the skills to keep abreast of future developments in networking;
7 Be able to undertake an investigation into areas covered by this module and report on their findings.

The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Time management and organisation;
2 Communication skills;
3 Report writing;
4 Problem solving;
5 Independent study and appropriate use of relevant resources;

Notes

  1. Credit level 7. Undergraduate or postgraduate masters level module.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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