Module Title:
Network Support
Module code:
(if known)
COMF506
Existing/New:
New
Originating Subject:
Module duration
(contact hours/
directed/directed private
study:
Level:
Semester(s) in which to
be offered:
1/2
5
Credit Value:
With effect from:
20
Sept 2009
Title of module being
replaced (if any):
Computing
200
(60/60/8
0)
Module Leader:
Status: core/option/elective
(identify programme where
appropriate):
Nigel Houlden
Core :FdSc IT Support
Option :FdSc Applied
Computing
Percentage taught by Subjects other than
originating Subject (please name other
Subjects):
Programme(s) in which to be
offered:
Pre-requisites per programme
(between levels):
Co-requisites per programme
(within a level):
FdSc IT Support
FdSc Applied Computing
Module Aims:
This module is designed to enable students to work effectively in a network installation or support role
for small office, home office, small business or organisations using networks that have fewer than 100
nodes requiring complex LAN implementation or interconnectivity via WAN links.
Expected Learning Outcomes
At the end of this module, students should be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Describe scalable IP address schemes.
Describe WAN technologies and design techniques.
Implement a wireless network.
Describe WAN concepts.
Implement a WAN.
Describe network administration.
Transferable/Key Skills and other attributes:






Research and investigative skills
Oral communication skills
Interpersonal skills
Self-evaluation
Decision making and independent thought
Thinking critically
Assessment:
Evidence for the knowledge and/or skills will be produced using a set of restricted response questions
to assess student’s knowledge and understanding. This may be administered as a single Multiple
Choice Test, or as several subtests, each covering one or more outcomes.
If a student requires to be reassessed, a different selection of questions will be used.
The practical component is assessed by having the student use and complete a logbook to record the
practical tasks successfully completed. The logbook can be produced by the student in paper or
electronic form and will be authenticated by the tutor.
If a student requires to be reassessed, a different selection of practical components will be used.
Assessment
1
2
Learning
Outcomes to be
met
1-6
1-6
Type of assessment
MCQ
Logbook
Weighting
Duration
(if exam)
30%
70%
1 hr
Word count or
equivalent if
appropriate
N/A
4,000
Learning and Teaching Strategies:
Students will receive instruction during workshops involving intensive practical work, on-line reading
material, and mini-lectures. Students are tested at all stages by probing on-line exams and
challenging practical case studies
Syllabus outline:
Scalable IP address schemes.
Network and port address translation.
Implement advanced addressing.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (assigning IP addresses)
WAN technologies and design techniques.
WAN concepts.
WAN technologies.
WAN design principles.
Wireless and broadband network operation concepts.
access networks (xDSL)
Wireless LAN Access Points. Bridges, Antennas and Accessories
Multi-service provision
Network Administration
Topographic design
Selection of appropriate technology
Bibliography
(please submit in Harvard referencing format)
Essential reading:
Irving P, (2005) Computer Networks 2nd Edition, Lexden Publishing
Norton, P, Kearns, D, (2001) Complete Guide to Networking , SAMS
Other indicative reading:
Stallings W, (2008) Data and Computer Communications, 8th Edition, Pearson International