Computer Networking

This course is an introduction to computer networks. Network topologies are introduced and the relative differences in scope between LAN, MAN and WAN implementations are examined. Computer organization is reviewed and expanded to network organization. In the process, typical network hardware is introduced, such as interfaces, various cabling methods, switches, routers, hubs, etc. Data encapsulation and encoding follows, and the OCI model and the TCP/IP model are introduced and the protocol layers are studied in detail. The programming interfaces to several card models are examined and routing and routers are introduced. The TCP/IP protocol suite studied in detail, too, as is IP addressing and subnetting. Finally the major topic of network security is covered. The course concludes with a look at wireless network technologies and standards.