Introduction to Computer Networks

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer networks through the study of communication models, transmission media, network devices, and layered architectures. Using the ISO/OSI model and the TCP/IP model as guiding frameworks, the course explains how data is transmitted across networks and how core networking services operate at the data link, network, transport, and application layers.

The course is designed for students and other learners with a general interest in information and communication technologies who want a structured foundation in networking. Over five thematic units, participants explore key networking concepts through lectures, practical exercises, guided assignments, and discussion of real-world scenarios, preparing them for further study in computer networking and related technical fields.

Unit 1: Introduction to computer networks; network goals and design issues; network architectures; OSI and TCP/IP models; LAN, MAN, and WAN classification; connection-oriented and connectionless services; transmission media; multiplexing and switching; network devices.

Unit 2: Data link layer concepts, including framing, error control, flow control, LAN technologies, MAC addressing, IEEE 802 standards, and Ethernet.

Unit 3: Network layer concepts, including routing algorithms, congestion control, internetworking, IP addressing, subnetting, NAT, and ARP.

Unit 4: Transport layer concepts, including addressing, buffering, multiplexing, recovery, TCP, UDP, connection establishment and release, and the TCP header.

Unit 5: Application layer concepts, including email, file transfer, remote login, the World Wide Web, multimedia applications, and firewalls.

On completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• explain the structure and functions of the OSI and TCP/IP models;
• identify common network devices, transmission media, topologies, and protocols used in computer networks;
• apply basic IP addressing, subnetting, and routing concepts to simple networking scenarios;
• distinguish the roles of the data link, network, transport, and application layers in data communication;

• describe the operation of core networking services and protocols, including Ethernet, ARP, TCP, UDP, email, file transfer, and the Web.

• Lectures introducing networking concepts at each OSI layer
• Practical exercises and lab sessions for hands-on network configuration and troubleshooting
• Group discussions and case studies on real-world network scenarios

• Guided assignments to prepare learners for more advanced networking topics