Computer Networks and Security as an overview provides integrated and comprehensive coverage of networking topics such as IP routing and switching fundamentals, and network security and services. This module provides learners with extensive opportunities for practical experience and career skills development.



The following key areas are covered but not limited to:

The TCP/IP model and the OSI model are used to facilitate standardization in the communication process.

Configuring switches and end devices to provide access to local and remote network resources.

IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes and verifying network connectivity between devices.

Configuring of VLANs and Inter-VLAN routing applying security best practices.

Troubleshooting inter-VLAN routing on Layer 3 devices.

Configuring dynamic address allocation in IPv6 networks.

Configuring switch security to mitigate LAN attacks.

Configuring IPv4 and IPv6 static routing on routers.

Configuring single-area OSPFv2 in both point-to-point and multiaccess networks.

Implementation of standard IPv4 ACLs to filter traffic and secure administrative access.

Configuring DHCP, NTP, FTP and NAT services on the intermediary to provide IPv4 address scalability.

Explanation of how to mitigate threats and enhance network security using access control lists and security best practices.

Written online test - A time constrained online test covering all module teaching. Students will be given scenarios to work through and will need to evaluate and determine best solutions. The test will explore knowledge of key concepts and the trade off between technologies (Learning Outcomes 1 to 4).

There will be 4 weekly one-hour lectures/sessions to supplement on-line material for the first 4 – 6 weeks. Thereafter self-directed learning using online material will be used, and a guided study plan created to support personal studies’ of the students.

EXPLAIN HOW NETWORKING COMPONENTS WORK AND HOW THEY CAN BE PUT TOGETHER TO IMPLEMENT A SECURE SYSTEM, ALLOWING SECURE REMOTE ACCESS.

Knowledge & Understanding



CRITICALLY ANALYSE FIRST HOP ROUTING PROTOCOLS AND MULTI-HONED EDGE DEVICES

Analysis,
Problem Solving



CRITICALLY COMPARE AND EVALUATE LAN AND WAN TECHNOLOGY AND ARCHITECTURES.

Knowledge & Understanding,
Learning,
Problem Solving



EXPLAIN SECURITY THREATS AND HOW TO SECURE NETWORK DEVICES, AAA, VPN, IPSEC, IDS, FIREWALLS AND CRYPTOGRAPHIC SYSTEMS.

Application,
Learning,
Enquiry

Introduction to Networks Companion Guide (CCNAv7). Publisher Cisco Networking Academy, Released October 2020, ISBN: 0136633668
Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials Companion Guide (CCNAv7). Publisher Cisco Networking Academy, Released November 2020, ISBN: 0136729355

Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation Companion Guide (CCNAv7) by Cisco Networking Academy. Publisher: Cisco Press.

Stallings, W, (2022), Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and Practice, Global Ed, Pearson; 8th edition

Lecture slides, recorded videos, lab documents and activities accessed through VLE

Simulation tools for network logical design, configurations and testing



Students studying this module will be able to access online materials including the Cisco Networking Academy online

curriculum (http://www.netacad.com), and the VLE.

This module is based around Computer Networks and Security and teaches comprehensive networking concepts and skills, from network design through to the protocols used, and security and services. Students will learn these concepts in depth and apply them to scenarios to build a strong practical perspective.