The purpose of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles,
architecture, protocols, and technologies that form the foundation of computer networking. It equips students
with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to analyse, design, implement, and manage modern
communication networks.

Through this course, students will explore how data is transmitted across networks, how various networking components
interact across the OSI and TCP/IP models, and how core protocols enable reliable
communication. The course also introduces critical areas such as IP addressing, routing, transport services,
network security, and emerging trends like wireless communication and cloud networking.

By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to contribute to the development, administration, and
security of networked systems in professional environments or to pursue further advanced study in networking and
related fields.

CLO1. Explain the principles and functions of computer networks, including key protocols, layered architectures (OSI and TCP/IP models), and networking devices.

CLO2. Design and configure IP addressing schemes and basic routing protocols to facilitate efficient data communication across networks.

CLO3. Analyze and evaluate the performance of network components and services, including transport protocols, media access control, and error handling techniques.

CLO4. Apply network diagnostic tools and security measures to monitor, troubleshoot, and secure network infrastructures in real-world scenarios.

Introduction to Computer Networks: Definition and purpose of computer networks; Network components: hosts, switches, routers, links; Types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN; Network topologies and transmission modes. The OSI and TCP/IP Reference Models: Layered architecture and design principles; OSI 7-layer model overview; TCP/IP 4-layer model comparison; Encapsulation and protocol stack. Physical and Data Link Layers: Transmission media (wired and wireless); Digital vs. analogue transmission; Framing, error detection, and correction; MAC addressing and Ethernet. Network Layer and IP Addressing: IPv4 and IPv6 addressing; Subnetting and supernetting; Routing principles and algorithms; ICMP and ARP. Transport Layer Protocols: Multiplexing and demultiplexing; UDP vs TCP: reliability and flow control; TCP congestion control and connection establishment. Application Layer and Protocols: DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, POP3; Client-server and peer-to-peer models; Web protocols and services. Network Devices and Internetworking: Switches, routers, hubs, access points; Routing and switching concepts; VLANs and inter-VLAN routing. Wireless and Mobile Networks: Wi-Fi standards and architecture; Mobile IP and cellular networks; Satellite and sensor networks. Network Security and Management: Network threats and attacks (DoS, MITM, spoofing); Firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs; Network monitoring and SNMP. Emerging Trends and Practical Networking: Software-Defined Networking (SDN); Cloud networking and virtualisation; IoT networking challenges; Lab simulations and mini-project.