Network fundamentals: protocols and standards reference models the significance of layered network architectures connections and connectionless protocols, Physical links and interfaces: modems and modem standards LAN characteristics and concepts interconnection of LANs WAN characteristics and concepts, Link layer aspects, synchronous and asynchronous transmission Framing, Error detection and correction, Sliding window protocols MAC Layer
network layer aspects, addressing, connection vs connectionless, Routing Algorithms, internetworking transport layer aspects, reliable transport connections, Internet Protocol (IP) naming and addressing routing the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) application and management protocols, Exploring Internet services: the dial-in end-user the direct connection
user the Internet Service Provider the global Internet, Emerging technologies over the Internet, such as IPv6 and ATM for a multimedia network Internet Telephone

To gain the knowledge of computer networks.

To understand the network models and their architecture.

To understand the protocols for each layers in the OSI and TCP/IP model.

To understand the different topologies. To learn about the MAC layer issues and routing protocols.

Upon completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Analyze the requirements for a given organizational structure and select the most appropriate networking architecture and technologies
2. Specify and identify deficiencies in existing protocols, and then go onto formulate new and better protocols
3. Analyze, specify and design the topological and routing strategies for an IP based networking infrastructure
4. Have a working knowledge of datagram and internet socket programming?
5. To master the terminology and concepts of the OSI reference model and the TCP-IP Reference model.
6. To master the concepts of protocols, network interfaces, and Design / performance issues in local area networks and wide area networks.
7. To be familiar with contemporary issues in networking technologies.
8. To be familiar with network tools and network programming.

L.L. Peterson and B.S. Davie, Computer Networks – A System Approach, Elsevier , 4th Edition, Reprint 2009

A. S. Tanenbaum, Computer Networks, Pearson , 4th Edition, 2008

B.A. Forouzan, TCP/IP protocol suite, Tata McGraw Hill , Reprint 2008

F. Halsall, Data Communication, Computer Networks and Open Systems, Addison Welsey , 4th Edition, 2003