Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, the student should be able to:
1. describe how the latest technologies in Local Area and Wide Area Networks (protocols, architectures) operate and how they can be deployed
2. compare/evaluate major networking technologies found on the Internet today and assess their suitability for different scenarios and user requirements.
3. demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of advanced routing and switching concepts
4. demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of implementation of wireless networks
5. discuss the key aspects of OS and network security in a heterogeneous environment.
6. analyse security approaches for leading applications like e-mail and the Web.
7. make effective use of leading network security protocols and applications.
Syllabus Content:
This module will build on the studentŐs prior knowledge of computer networks and provide the student with a thorough understanding of many of the latest LAN and WAN technologies. The main areas covered in this module are TCP/IP, Routing,, Switching and Wireless communications, as well as security concepts and technologies and their applications. The practical component of the module will allow the student implement and test many of the concepts covered in the lectures.
Pre-requisites:
á Basic understanding of Networks and TCP/IP.
á Basic understanding of Internet Protocols.
á Moderate programming skills (Java or C/C++).
á Moderate mathematical ability (at least one year of undergraduate mathematics).
Indicative syllabus content:
1. In depth treatment (assuming prior knowledge) of Ethernet, IP, UDP, TCP; use of protocol analyser software to capture and analyse different types of frames;
2. IP subnetting, VLSM, CIDR
3. IPv6 Protocols, Addressing, configuration.
4. LAN switching, RSTP, VLANs, VTP
5. Routing – algorithms and protocols; autonomous systems, BGP, RIP, OSPF, example router configuration using Cisco routers;
6. Wireless Protocol architectures (OSI layer 2): Bluetooth, 802.11.
7. Emerging Communications technologies - Mobile IP, Sensor networks
8. Security Services & Policy: vulnerabilities and attacks, security assessment
9. Cryptography: conventional encryption, public key cryptography, authentication and hash functions, key management, certificates and trust management
10. Communications & Network Security: IP security, VPNs; Transport Layer security; Authentication protocols; Security in wireless networks
11. System security: firewalls; intrusion detection & honeypots; passwords
12. (In)secure code: Secure software development; good & bad programming practice; Malicious software
Practical Programme:
This module adopts a hands-on practical approach. The aim of this module is to allow the student to develop a working knowledge and understanding of how communications infrastructures and network protocols operate.
1. Communications Infrastructure
a. Protocol Analyser
b. Routing – Static, RIP, OSPF
c. Switching – VLANs, VTP
d. Wireless
2. Network Security
a. Exploring host security
b. Cryptographic tools – e.g. PGP, OpenSSL, key management
c. Secure coding
3. Research assignment