Computer Networks
- Sciences
- 300 level
- 3 credit units
- 112 pages
- 8 units
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to computer networks, covering network classifications, reference models, data transmission, and multiplexing techniques. It explores medium access control, data link layer protocols, and network devices such as repeaters, bridges, routers, and gateways. The course also delves into integrated services digital networks (ISDN) and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), equipping students with a solid understanding of network architectures and technologies.
About this course
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Study hours
- 120 hours
- Maths
- Basic
- Content
- Theoretical
- Practical work
- No
- Basic computer literacy
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Assignments
- Tutor Marked Assignments
- Final Examination
What you'll read
The real module and unit structure of CIT311, taken from the course material NOUN publishes.
One paragraph, so you can see how it reads
CIT311 · UNIT 1 NETWORK CLASSIFICATION AND REFERENCE MODELS
A WAN provides long distance transmission of data, voice, image and video information over large geographical areas that may comprise a country, a continent or even the whole world.
What you should be able to do
- Classify different types of networks based on their characteristics
- Explain the functions of each layer in the OSI and TCP/IP reference models
- Describe various data transmission and multiplexing techniques
- Identify and explain the functions of different network devices
- Explain the principles and applications of ISDN and ATM technologies
What it prepares you for
- Network Administrator
- Network Engineer
- IT Support Specialist
- Telecommunications Technician
- Telecommunications
- Information Technology
- Networking
- Data Communications
- Network simulators
- Protocol analyzers
Where it gets hard
The units students slow down on, and what makes each one heavy.
- Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 4: Network, Transport and Application Layers
Understanding the intricacies of the TCP/IP model requires grasping complex protocol interactions and network communication principles.
- Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 4: Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)
The unit requires a thorough understanding of ATM cell structure, adaptation layers, and traffic management mechanisms.
A suggested way through it
13 weeks, about 79 hours in total. Yours will differ.
- Week 1Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 1: Network Classification and Reference Models · 4 hours
Define network types (LAN, MAN, WAN) and their characteristics. Explain the OSI and TCP/IP reference models and their layers. Describe the functions of each layer in the OSI model.
Unit 2: Data Transmission and Multiplexing · 3 hours
Explain time and frequency domain concepts. Differentiate between analog and digital data transmission. Describe various transmission media (twisted pair, coaxial cable).
- Week 2Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 3: Medium Access Control and Data Link Layer · 4 hours
Explain error handling and flow control methods. Identify and describe MAC sublayer protocols (CSMA/CD, Token Passing). Understand IEEE standards for LANs (802.3, 802.4, 802.5).
Unit 4: Network, Transport and Application Layers · 3 hours
Describe routing and congestion control algorithms. Compare virtual circuit and datagram subnets. Explain internetworking concepts (repeaters, bridges, routers).
- Week 3Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 1: Network Devices–I · 4 hours
Describe the functions and operations of repeaters, bridges, switches, and hubs. Compare switches and hubs in terms of collision and broadcast domains.
- Week 4Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 2: Network Devices–II · 4 hours
Describe the functions and operations of routers, gateways, and modems. Compare bridges and routers. Explain the role of gateways in connecting dissimilar networks.
- Week 5Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 3: Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN) · 4 hours
Explain baseband and broadband communication. Describe ISDN services (BRI and PRI). Discuss the advantages and applications of ISDN.
- Week 6Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 4: Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) · 4 hours
Explain switching techniques (circuit switching, packet switching). Describe ATM layered architecture and its comparison with the OSI model. Explain how ATM protocol works and the structure of an ATM cell.
- Week 7Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 1: Network Classification and Reference Models · 4 hours
Review Module 1 Units 1 & 2. Complete TMA 1.
Unit 2: Data Transmission and Multiplexing · 3 hours
Review Module 1 Units 3 & 4. Prepare for TMA 2.
- Week 8Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 1: Network Devices–I · 4 hours
Review Module 2 Units 1 & 2. Complete TMA 3.
Unit 2: Network Devices–II · 3 hours
Review Module 2 Units 3 & 4. Prepare for TMA 4.
- Week 9Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 1: Network Classification and Reference Models · 4 hours
Review Module 1 Units 1 & 2. Complete TMA 1.
Unit 2: Data Transmission and Multiplexing · 3 hours
Review Module 1 Units 3 & 4. Prepare for TMA 2.
- Week 10Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 1: Network Devices–I · 4 hours
Review Module 2 Units 1 & 2. Complete TMA 3.
Unit 2: Network Devices–II · 3 hours
Review Module 2 Units 3 & 4. Prepare for TMA 4.
- Week 11Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 1: Network Classification and Reference Models · 7 hours
Comprehensive review of Module 1 topics. Focus on key concepts and definitions.
- Week 12Module 2: Network Devices & Technology
Unit 1: Network Devices–I · 7 hours
Comprehensive review of Module 2 topics. Focus on practical applications and examples.
- Week 13Module 1: An Introduction to Computer Networks
Unit 1: Network Classification and Reference Models · 7 hours
Final revision and practice questions. Prepare for final examination.
Preparing for the exam
- Create detailed summaries of each unit, focusing on key terms and concepts
- Draw diagrams illustrating the OSI and TCP/IP models and their functions
- Practice solving problems related to data transmission and network device configurations
- Review all Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs) and identify areas needing further study
- Form study groups to discuss challenging topics and share insights
- Allocate specific time slots for revision and practice in the weeks leading up to the exam
Questions students ask about this course
What is CIT311 about?
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to computer networks, covering network classifications, reference models, data transmission, and multiplexing techniques. It explores medium access control, data link layer protocols, and network devices such as repeaters, bridges, routers, and gateways. The course also delves into integrated services digital networks (ISDN) and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), equipping students with a solid understanding of network architectures and technologies.
How many units does CIT311 have?
CIT311, Computer Networks, has 8 units across 2 modules, over 112 pages of course material. You can read it one unit at a time.
How many credit units is CIT311?
CIT311 carries 3 credit units, at 300 level in Sciences.
Is CIT311 hard?
CIT311 is rated intermediate level, with basic mathematical content. It is mostly theoretical work.
How long does CIT311 take to study?
About 120 hours of study, spread across its 8 units.
How is CIT311 assessed?
CIT311 is assessed by Assignments, Tutor Marked Assignments and Final Examination.
What do I need before starting CIT311?
Basic computer literacy Introduction to Computer Science
What can I do with CIT311?
Network Administrator, Network Engineer, IT Support Specialist and Telecommunications Technician.