This module is intended to provide the students with knowledge of how network components can be integrated to produce complete systems and how the performance of these systems can be analysed to determine how effectively the network design satisfies user requirements. The module covers the following topics:
1. Network design principles
2. Gather customer requirements
3. LAN design
4. Multi-site networks
5. Connection to the internet
6. Managing the network
7. Protecting the network assets
8. Understanding networked applications
9. Prepare network documentation

This module will be delivered using formal presentation and student centred approaches in interactive seminars. You will be directed to appropriate reading. Case studies will be used and presented by guest speakers when possible for support. The module will be supported by its own internet pages withlinks to appropriate reference sites. You will have developed your research skills further in the course of this module. Practical demonstrations or exercises will be used to supplement the lectures. The normal balance will be one-hour lecture and one hour tutorial per week.
The module can be optionally supplemented with CCNA online material and practical work as part of the progression toward being prepared for the third quarter of the Cisco Certified Network Associate Exam (CCNA).
Within this module you will be introduced to and/or be able to develop your:
Intellectual skills
Communication
Teamworking
Problem solving
Personal skills for lifelong learning
(1:n) (1:25)1

Library resources
Module website via Blackboard VLE
Suitable Communications Equipment
Suitable programming language
CCNA version 3 equipment
Access to Internet
On-line learning material by CISCO Inc

Fundamentals of Computer Networks (Level 4) or
Networked Computer Systems (Level 5) or
Equivalent Experience

Computer Networks: Principles, Technologies and Protocols for Network Design, Natalia Olifer & Victor Olifer, Wiley, 2005, ISBN-10: 0470869828
Applied Data Communications - A Business-Oriented Approach. 4th Edition, Goldman and Rawles, Wiley, 2006, ISBN: 0-471-45177-0
Top-Down Network Design, 3rd Edition, Oppenheimer, Cisco Press, 2010, ISBN-10: 1-58720-283-2
Cisco Networking Academy Program CCNA 3 and 4 Companion Guide 3rd edition Ciscopress, 2003, ISBN: 0-471-346403

A coursework weighted at 100%

Part A
Assignment weighted at 70%. (Learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4). In course assessment, 3000 words written design proposals for corporate communication systems.

Part B
Class test length 1 hour weighted at 30%. (Learning outcomes 1, 3 and 4)