Network Architecture and Protocols – CSIS 355

Course Description

A study of how computer networks and internets operate. Investigates networking from the level of data transmission and wiring through the level of application software that provides networking functionality. Topics include: data and packet transmission, LANs and WANs, and internet concepts, including architecture, protocol layering, and application software. (Formerly CSCI 355)

Rationale

Computer networking is one of the most exciting and important technological fields of our time. The Internet and its applications and services, such as Web, email, Voice over IP, video-on-demand, mobile networks, etc., are changing the ways we live and work. The networking/Internet field and all that it entails are a vast new frontier, full of amazing challenges. There is always room for innovation. This course covers fundamental computer networking concepts and principles with exercises which guide students to apply the networking theory and design principles, verify their understandings, and build a solid foundation for creating innovations in today’s Internet. The course serves students in two ways. For those students who will continue in computer networking, it lays foundations of protocol design principles, secure network architecture and design skills, and experience with TCP/IP network management protocols, which are necessary to take more advanced courses in graduate study and/or technical training in the industry. For those not continuing in computer networking, it covers basic networking knowledge, network configuration, application-level network communications methods, and in-depth understanding of the inner-workings of computer networks and their development.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (2)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student will create a thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. Each thread must be at least 300 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student will reply to the threads of at least 2 classmates. Each reply must be at least 100 words. At least 1 citation must be included in each thread and reply. Current APA formatting is required for any citations.

Lab Assignments (4)

Using a virtual lab environment, the student will complete computer networking lab assignments that will give him or her an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the lessons learned during the assigned or previous module/week.

Research Proposal Paper Assignment

Using a virtual lab environment, the student will complete computer networking lab assignments that will give him or her an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the lessons learned during the assigned or previous module/week.

Quizzes (5)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the module in which it is assigned (Quiz 2 will also cover material from the preceding module/week). Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes and will have a time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Each quiz will contain a variety of multiple-choice, true/false, and short essay questions.

Quiz: Final Exam

The student will complete a comprehensive Final Exam which will cover all the material from the course. This exam will be open-book/open-notes, contain a variety of multiple-choice, true/false , and short essay questions, and have a time limit of 3 hours.