Data Networks (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

0-5

Objective

You learn the structure, protocols of data networks used by computers (and other end devices). You also know the principles of planning a data network.

You are familiar with protocols and data transmission principles used on the Internet. You know the layers of the OSI model and identify the technologies and protocols used on each layer of the model. You can design a local area network using switches, routers, workstations, and servers. You are able to design cabling, switching topology, and routing scheme to run the data network. You know the different devices used on a network (e.g. switches, routers, firewalls, wireless base stations). You can change, handle and save the configuration used in network devices. You know how local area networks interconnect to one another through wide area networks.

EUR-ACE Knowledge and understanding
You know the main modeling methods of data networks and you have knowledge and understanding of data networks and their effects. You know the basic principles of network design and how to configure network devices.

EUR-ACE Engineering practice
You can apply data network skills to communication between devices.

Content

In this course, you will learn the principles of network structure and protocol design, as well as the principles of Internet communication. You will master the layers of the OSI model and be able to design and implement local area networks using switches, routers and servers. You will learn how to design cabling and routing plans and how to handle network equipment configurations. You will also understand how to efficiently connect local area networks to backbone networks.

The contents stated through the OSI model:

Layer 1
Physical cabling (copper, fiber)
Wireless Local Area Networks
Basic modulations in data transfer
Devices

Layer 2
Ethernet switching
Network Segmentation (VLANs)
Loop detection (Spanning Tree)
MAC addressing

Layer 3
IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, subnetting
Routing (Static, OSPF and BGP)
DHCP, ARP

Layer 4
TCP and UDP

Layers 5 to 7
SSH, HTTP, DNS, SMTP

In addition, best practices in network design and configuration management are covered in the course.

Materials

Saharinen, Karo. 2021. Data Networks. http://datanetworks.pages.labranet.jamk.fi.

Teaching methods

This course is conducted through a flipped learning method. Study material is available online.
The practical hands-on exercises are done in contact lessons, where the teacher assists in problem situations.

- Lectures (flipped learning video)
- Practical exercises
- Demonstration of skills as personal assignments

Employer connections

The course will contain points of view from the industry on how data networks operate in Finland.

Exam schedules

The course will use JAMK's Exam Studio where you can reserve exam times based on your own calendar/timetable.

Completion alternatives

The course can be done by accredition of competence. Agree upon the accreditation with the course lecturer. More information about accreditation in the degree regulations of JAMK and the study guide.

Student workload

5 ECTS * 27 h = 135 hours where,

33,25 h theory material, where
- 13,25 h = Video material/Lectures based on the text
- 20 h = re-reading the material
81,75 h = ~4,8h per exercise (if grade 5 is your goal)
15 h = Self-study (reflecting, going through additional material, troubleshooting, using relevant tools)
5 h = Exam (this includes retakes if necessary)

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Sufficient (1)
The student knows the theory on network protocols sufficiently and is able to recognize some sections of existing solutions. The student can design and implement few parts of a small-scale network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Satisfactory (2)
The student knows the theory on network protocols satisfactorily and is able to recognize existing solutions. The student can design and implement some parts of a small-scale network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good (3)
The student has good knowledge of the theory on network protocols and is able to analyze existing solutions. The student is able to design and implement most parts of a network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Very good (4)
The student masters the theory on network protocols very well and is able to analyze existing solutions. The student is able to plan and implement almost all parts of a network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5)
The student has excellent command of the theory on network protocols and is able to analyze existing solutions and create new solutions. The student is able to design and implement all parts of a large-scale network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student has sufficient knowledge of the theory on network protocols and is able to recognize some sections of existing solutions. The student can design and implement few parts of a small-scale network infrastructure based on given requirement specification.

Qualifications

Linux basics