Module Details

Module Code: COMP7033
Title: Scaling and Managing Networks
Long Title: Scaling and Managing Networks
NFQ Level: Intermediate
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2017/18 ( September 2017 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4811 - Computer Science
Module Delivered in: 2 programme(s)
Module Description: This module describes the architecture, components and operations of routers and switches in larger and more complex networks. Students learn how to configure and troubleshoot routers and switches for advanced functionality such as link aggregation, spanning tree, multi-area OSPF, BGP, MPLS. Network management theory, standards and tools are introduced.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Describe and implement approaches to add redundancy to campus networks.
LO2 Discuss and apply the techniques to design and implement a scalable network allowing for future growth.
LO3 Design, build and configure complex routed and switched networks.
LO4 Describe uses and implementation of network management protocols and standards in enterprise networks.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
12787 COMP7032 Routing and Switching Concepts
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
LAN Redundancy and Scalability
LAN switching, redundancy concepts, spanning tree protocol. Scalable LAN design, extending the switched LAN using wireless, link aggregation.
Scalable Routing
Advanced single-area OSPF configuration and troubleshooting; multi-area OSPF; Areas, Area Border Routers, configuration, verification, troubleshooting. VLSM and summarisation, BGPv4, Path routing, BGP Advertisements and withdrawls, BGP options
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)
MPLS forwarding basics, Flow driven vs Topology driven switching, MPLS vs Carrier Ethernet
Managing Networks
Network management protocols and standards; SNMP, NetFlow, Syslog, NetConf, YANG. Organisational model (MIB, agents, proxies), centralised and decentralised architectures. Fault, Configuration,Accounting,Performance and Security (FCAPs).
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework50.00%
End of Module Formal Examination50.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 25
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Networking Skills Examination. Assessment of practical skills in the configuration and troubleshooting of OSPF, BGP, MPLS, STP, link aggregation and network management.
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 25
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Networking Case Study. Mentoring case-study where learners are asked to design and implement a scalable solution given a set of enterprise network requirements with respect to LAN switching, routing and network management. This will reinforce students understanding of the material being delivered in lectures. Starts Week 3.
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 50
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
End-of-Semester Final Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Lecture underpinning learning outcomes. Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact Lab based practical work, in weekly 2-hour blocks. Every Week 2.00 2
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Study, project work, extra reading to support module content. Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Lecture underpinning learning outcomes. Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact Lab based practical work, in weekly 2-hour blocks. Every Week 2.00 2
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Study, project work, extra reading to support module content. Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Cisco Networking Academy. (2014), Scaling Networks Companion Guide, Cisco Press, [ISBN: 978-1-58713-328-2].
  • Alexander Clemm. (2007), Network management fundamentals, Cisco Press Indianapolis, Ind., [ISBN: 9781587201370].
  • Luc De Ghein. (2006), MPLS Fundamentals, Cisco Press, [ISBN: 9781587051975].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
  • Online Curriculum, Course material is available on-line for registered students,
    http://netacad.com
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_KITMN_8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in IT Management 4 Mandatory
CR_KITSP_7 Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 4 Mandatory