CE707-7-AU-CO:
IP Networking and Applications

The details
2024/25
Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (School of)
Colchester Campus
Autumn
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Thursday 03 October 2024
Friday 13 December 2024
15
24 April 2024

 

Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)

 

(none)

Key module for

MSC H60112 Computer Networks and Security,
MSC H610CH Electronic Engineering,
MSC GH64N3 Computer Systems Engineering

Module description

This module introduces the Internet and computer networking from both theoretical and practical perspectives. It first examines fundamentals of computer networking, reference layer models, the architecture and operation of the protocol suits, and shows how information is processed within each layer and transmitted across the Internet using relevant protocols and routing hierarchy. The operation and configuration of routers is discussed alongside the details of protocol operation.


As a practical exercise on routing protocols and router configuration, a specially designed lab simulation experiment using the Cisco Packet Tracer modelling tool is run in the module. The function and implementation of the main support protocols are also covered.


The course then discusses the rationale behind the next generation IPv6 protocol, in particular regarding addressing architecture, header functions, and novel protocol concepts. A comparison between IPv4 and IPv6 and transition to the next generation protocol are discussed in depth. The application of these new networking ideas is illustrated by the application of IPv6 to problems in network layer services, especially security.


Finally, the course describes the operation and configuration of applications and application-layer protocols, especially Domain Name System (DNS).

Module aims

The aim of this module is:



  • To introduce the internet and computer networking from a theoretical and practical perspective. Using reference layer models the operation of the internet is described for each layer of the hierachy.



Module learning outcomes

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:



  1. Understand, describe, and analyse the layered network architectures, their protocol suites and the operation principles of protocols within each layer.

  2. Explain functions and implementation of the main control (support) protocols.

  3. Solve problems related to the Internet functioning and network performance evaluation.

  4. Analyse the client-server approach to networked computing, and evaluate where it is appropriate.

  5. Explain how information is routed across the Internet using different approaches, routing hierarchy and corresponding protocols.

  6. Describe in general terms and explain the business case and technical case for the next generation IPv6 protocol, its design and network functionality.

  7. Explain the operation of common applications and application-layer protocols, and analyse their configuration and deployment, particularly the DNS.

Module information

Students who are considering taking module CE709 as an option are strongly advised to select this module.


Outline Syllabus:



  • Review of computer network concepts, layered services and protocols; Local area networks, Ethernets, LLC and MAC sub-layers, CSMA/CD protocol, IP over Ethernet.

  • Internet protocol IPv4: IP datagrams, Fragmentation, IPv4 addressing; Internet control protocols, ICMP.

  • ARP, RARP, BOOTP and DHCP.

  • Transport protocols: TCP operation, congestion control algorithms; UDP operation; Performance of computer networks.

  • Internet routing protocols: Static and dynamic routing; Distance-vector routing, link-state routing, convergence, Dijkstra algorithm; Interior and exterior rooting protocols, RIP, OSPF, BGP.

  • Multicast addressing and routing: IGMP, IP tunnelling, MBONE, PIM.

  • Next generation IPv6 Internet protocol: IPv6 addressing architecture; IPv6 packet format, Main header and field functions; Extension headers; Auto-configuration and discovery functions; Comparison with IPv4; Review of IPv6 security concepts, IPv6 security services, transport and tunnel encryption modes. General architecture of IPSec and security headers; ICMPv6 functions.

  • IPv6 mobility.

  • Applications and application-layer protocols.

  • Common Internet services and their configuration; The Domain Name Service (DNS), its purpose, installation and configuration, name resolution algorithms.

Learning and teaching methods

This module will be delivered via:

  • Lectures, classes, and lab sessions

Bibliography

The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course.
The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students.
Further reading can be obtained from this module's reading list.

Assessment items, weightings and deadlines

Coursework / exam Description Deadline Coursework weighting
Coursework   Progress Test (in person, MCQ Moodle Test, Closed Book)     25% 
Coursework   Assignment 2 - Report on Laboratory Experiment   13/01/2025  25% 
Coursework   Assignment 1 - Report on Practical Exercises and Essays   13/01/2025  50% 
Exam  Main exam: In-Person, Open Book (Restricted), 150 minutes during Early Exams 
Exam  Reassessment Main exam: In-Person, Open Book (Restricted), 150 minutes during September (Reassessment Period) 

Exam format definitions

  • Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
  • In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary, for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.

Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.

Overall assessment

Coursework Exam
40% 60%

Reassessment

Coursework Exam
40% 60%
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Nick Zakhleniuk, email: naz@essex.ac.uk.
Dr Nick Zakhleniuk
School Office, email: csee-schooloffice (non-Essex users should add @essex.ac.uk to create full e-mail address), Telephone 01206 872770

 

Availability
No
No
Yes

External examiner

Dr Anthony Olufemi Tesimi Adeyemi-Ejeye
Resources
Available via Moodle
Of 12 hours, 12 (100%) hours available to students:
0 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s), module, or event type.

 

Further information

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