Module 1: Basics of Data Communication

  • Types and sources of data
  • Transmission definitions and modes: one-way, half-duplex, and duplex transmission
  • Transmission techniques: parallel vs. serial, synchronous vs. asynchronous transmission
  • Bit and character synchronization
  • Efficiency of transmission, error detection methods, and data compression

Module 2: Network Protocols and Architecture

  • Introduction to network protocols
  • ISO-OSI model: seven layers and their functions
  • Overview of IEEE 802 standards
  • Transport protocols, session protocols, and other network protocols

Module 3: Error Control and Data Compression

  • Error detection techniques: parity checking, cyclic redundancy check (CRC), feedback error control
  • Forward error correction
  • Data compression methods: Huffman coding and dynamic Huffman coding

Module 4: Local and Metropolitan Area Networks (LAN/MAN)

  • Medium access control techniques: Ethernet, token bus, and token ring
  • LAN standards and Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)
  • Overview of Metropolitan Area Networks

Module 5: Client-Server Systems

  • Peer-to-peer and client-server architectures
  • Client-server requirements: GUI design, interface independence, platform independence, transaction processing, reliability, and recovery mechanisms
  • Features and benefits of major network operating systems (e.g., Novell NetWare, UNIX/Linux, Windows NT)

Module 6: TCP/IP, Internet, and Security

  • TCP/IP protocols and network operating systems
  • Internet architecture, IPv4 and IPv6, internet services, and addressing
  • Intranet and internet programming
  • System administration and security issues in networks

Module 7: Emerging Trends and Network Management

  • Overview of contemporary trends in networking
  • Tools and technologies for network monitoring and management

Lab Work

  1. Demonstration of simple communication networks.
  2. Practical illustration of the ISO-OSI model layers and their applications.
  3. Setup and configuration of Local Area Networks (LANs) and Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
  4. Hands-on implementation of error detection and correction techniques.
  5. Exploration of network operating systems (e.g., Linux, Windows NT).
  6. Small network setup and configuration of network services (e.g., DNS, DHCP).

 

Teaching/Learning Methods

  • Lectures and tutorials
  • Practical demonstrations and laboratory sessions
  • Group discussions and problem-solving exercises
  • Case studies on network design and management
  • Projects and assignments on client-server implementation

 

Modes of Assessment

  1. Continuous Assessment: 40%
    • Assignments, lab reports, and practical projects
  2. Midterm Examination: 20%
  3. Final Examination: 40%

 

Reading List/References

Primary Texts (Essential Readings):

  1. Forouzan, B. A. Data Communications and Networking. McGraw-Hill, 2021.
  2. Tanenbaum, A. S., & Wetherall, D. J. Computer Networks. Pearson, 2021.

Supplementary Readings:

  1. Stallings, W. Data and Computer Communications. Pearson, 2020.
  2. Kurose, J. F., & Ross, K. W. Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach. Pearson, 2020.

Additional Resources:

  1. IEEE 802 Standards Documentation (available online).
  2. Online tutorials on socket programming and network simulation tools.
  3. Research articles on emerging trends in network security.