SUBJECT OUTLINE

41092 Network Fundamentals

Course area UTS: Engineering
Delivery Spring 2023; City
Credit points 6cp
Result type Grade and marks

Attendance: 4hpw, 2hpw (lecture); 2hpw (tutorial/laboratory)

Recommended studies: basic programming skills, e.g. C++ or Python, are recommended to complete the
programming projects

Subject coordinator
Professor Ren Ping Liu
School of Electrical and Data Engineering
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +61 2 95142351
Room: CB11.08.114

Teaching staff
Asma Alaslani <[email protected]>
Daniel Lin <[email protected]>
Ghada Bani Musa <[email protected]>
Kendal Scott <[email protected]>
Misha Milanovic <[email protected]>
Nazar Waheed <[email protected]>

Subject description
Today's internet is arguably the largest engineered system ever created by humanity, carrying petabytes of data every
minute. It is important for data engineers to understand how data is transferred through the internet, and the guiding
principles and structures of data transportation designs.

This subject provides students with a modern introduction to the dynamic field of computer networking, including
layered network architecture and the TCP/IP protocol suite. Student practical works include observing network traffic in
action and building their own network applications through socket programming. Students also have hands-on
opportunities to build their own networks using Cisco network equipment.

By developing problem-solving and design skills in this subject, students also acquire the ability to select the most
appropriate network services, and design and develop network applications, e.g. web server and client, to achieve the
best data performance.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
1. Understand the key architectural principles of the Internet, namely protocol layering and service models.
2. Analyse various components of the Internet, including Applications, Transport, Network, Addressing, and Data
Link, to select the most appropriate network services.

3. Examine and explain end-to-end packet delivery throughout the network system to gain insight into the behaviour
of the Internet.

4. Design and implement network applications to provide a service, such as web and email.

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Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes
(CILOs):
Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design and decision-making methodologies to develop
components, systems and processes to meet specified requirements. (C.1)
Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply abstraction, mathematics and discipline fundamentals, software, tools
and techniques to evaluate, implement and operate systems. (D.1)

Contribution to the development of graduate attributes

Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies

This subject contributes to the development of the following Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies:
1.1. Comprehensive, theory based understanding of the underpinning natural and physical sciences and the
engineering fundamentals applicable to the engineering discipline.
1.2. Conceptual understanding of the mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, and computer and information
sciences which underpin the engineering discipline.
2.1. Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
2.2. Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.

Teaching and learning strategies

Normal class contact time is 4 hours per week, comprised of a lecture (2 hours) followed by a tutorial/laboratory (2
hours). In the laboratory, a workshop approach is used which combines learning-by-doing, small group and whole
class discussion, web research, on-line activities, design and development activities, and question and answer
sessions. Student engagement in group work activities requires the involvement and participation of all students.
Teamwork that simulates the engineering workplace is strongly encouraged and supported, because communication is
integral to the subject.

Pre-class preparation activities include pre-reading the textbook and watching video notes. The tutorials may include
quizzes at the start of classes, followed by group discussions on learnt topics, as well as Q&A on critical and/or difficult
points. In-class feedback will also be given on the quizzes, assignments, labs, and projects. It is expected that
students will need to spend an additional four hours of self-directed study, including reading the textbook, reviewing
lecture notes, solving exercise problems, and completing projects.

Content (topics)
1. Computer Networks and the Internet
What is the Internet
The network edge and core
Network performance measures
Protocol layers
History of the Internet

2. Application Layer
Principles of network applications
Web and HTTP
Email and DNS
Socket Programming: Creating Network Applications

3. Transport Layer
Introduction of transport-layer services
Connectionless transport: UDP
Principles of reliable data transfer
Connection oriented transport: TCP
Principles of Congestion Control

4. The Network Layer: Data Plane

Network service models

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 What’s inside a router
The Internet Protocol (IP)
IPv4 and IPv6 addressing

5. The Network Layer: Control Plane

Routing algorithms
Intra-AS routing: OSPF
Inter-AS routing: BGP
ICMP and SNMP

6. The Link Layer

Link layer services and implementations
Error Detection and Correction Techniques
Multiple access links and protocols
Switched LAN: Ethernet and VLANs
Retrospective: A Day in the Life of a Web Page Request

Program
Week/Session Dates Description

0 31/7-4/8 Orientation week

Notes:

join welcome session online

watch welcome video message in UTS Canvas
learn Python if you don't have programming skills

1 7-11/8 Introduction to Internet

Notes:

1.1 what is the Internet?

1.2 network edge

1.3 network core

Tutorial, Lab

2 14-18/8 Computer Networks and the Internet

Notes:

1.4 Performance: delay, loss, throughput

1.5 protocol layers, service models

1.7 history

Tutorial, Lab
Assignment1

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 3 21-25/8 Application layer

Notes:

2.1 principles of network applications

2.2 Web and HTTP

Tutorial, Lab

4 28/8-1/9 Application development

Notes:

2.3 email

2.4 DNS

2.7 socket programming with UDP and TCP

Tutorial, Lab
Project1 - socket programming

5 4-8/9 Transport layer

Notes:

3.1 transport-layer services

3.2 multiplexing and demultiplexing

3.3 connectionless transport: UDP

3.4 principles of reliable data transfer

Quiz
Tutorial, Lab
Project1 due in your lab class

6 11-15/9 TCP and congestion control

Notes:

3.5 connection-oriented transport: TCP

3.6 principles of congestion control

3.7 TCP congestion control

Tutorial, Lab
Assignment2

7 18-22/9 Network layer: data plane

Notes:

4.1 Overview of Network layer

4.2 What’s inside a router

Tutorial, Lab

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 StuVac 25-29/9 StuVac Week: No lecture, no tutorial/lab.

8 3-6/10 Network layer: IP

Notes:

4.3 IP: Internet Protocol

Tutorial, Lab

9 9-13/10 Network layer: routing algorithms

Notes:

5.1 introduction

5.2 routing algorithms

Tutorial, Lab
Assignment3

10 16-20/10 Network layer: routing protocols

Notes:

5.3 intra-AS routing in the Internet: OSPF

5.4 routing among the ISPs: BGP

5.6 ICMP

5.7 SNMP

Tutorial, Lab

11 23-27/10 Link Layer

Notes:

6.1 introduction, services

6.2 error detection, correction

6.3 multiple access protocols

Tutorial, Lab

12 30/10-3/11 Link Layer - LANs

Notes:

6.4 Switched LANs

6.7 Retrospective: a day in the life of a web request

Tutorial, Lab: Project 2, assessment in lab class.

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Assessment
Labs, Projects, Assignments, Quiz and Final Exam

Assessment task 1: Labs

Intent: Wireshark and hands-on Labs: Experiments, observations, and analysis

Objective(s): This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning
Outcomes (CILOs):

D.1

Type: Laboratory/practical

Groupwork: Group, individually assessed

Weight: 10%

Task: There are twelve labs, including Wireshark, network hands-on, and project assessment labs, to
enable students to actually observe the sequence of messages exchanged between two protocol
entities and build simple networks. Students are expected to test the network connectivity, explain
and analyse the observed data during the labs.

Due: Ten labs are marked in lab classes in weeks 1-4, 6-11. Each lab is marked by responsible tutor
based on student individual performance in demonstrating lab results. Weeks 5 and 12 labs are
reserved for project assessment.

Assessment task 2: Projects

Intent: Build design, development, and implementation skills.

Objective(s): This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

2, 3 and 4

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning
Outcomes (CILOs):

C.1 and D.1

Type: Project

Groupwork: Group, individually assessed

Weight: 10%

Task: Project 1: Build a Web Server

In this assignment, you will develop a simple Web server in Python that is capable of processing only
one request. In the Companion Website, we provide the skeleton code for your server. Your job is to
complete the code, run your server, and then test your server by sending requests from browsers
running on different hosts.

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 Project 2: Build your own network
You will build your own network using Cisco switch and router. Your job is to initialize the switch and
router, complete basic configurations in hosts, switch and router. You will demonstrate the network
routing status and connectivity, and analyse the network traffic.

Due: In class in Week 5 and Week 12, in your allocated lab

Assessment task 3: Assignments

Intent: Test conceptual understanding, problem solving skills and facilitate self-assessment.

Objective(s): This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1, 2 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning
Outcomes (CILOs):

C.1 and D.1

Type: Quiz/test

Groupwork: Individual

Weight: 15%

Task: Students will be given a series of questions about the assignment topic and then required to submit
their answers through an online quiz in Canvas. The questions will require students to do some
background reading and perform some analysis and/or calculations to reach the answers.

Assignment 1. Network performance analysis.

Assignment 2. Transport analysis.

Assignment 3. Routing protocols.

Length: Short-answer questions

Due: Assignment 1 due by 23:59 Monday week3

Assignment 2 due by 23:59 Monday week7
Assignment 3 due by 23:59 Monday week10

Assessment task 4: Quiz

Intent: Test conceptual understanding, problem solving skills and facilitate self-assessment.

Objective(s): This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1, 2 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning
Outcomes (CILOs):

C.1 and D.1

Type: Quiz/test

Groupwork: Individual

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 Groupwork: Individual

Weight: 20%

Task: The exam is in the form of multiple choice, short answer questions, plus system design and
evaluation problems.

It covers specified chapters, lectures, learning materials, and tutorials.

Requires application of knowledge, techniques, evaluation, and resources to solve problems.

Due: 23:59 Monday week5

Assessment task 5: Final Exam

Intent: Test concept understanding, problem solving skills, overall assessment.

Objective(s): This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1, 2 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning
Outcomes (CILOs):

C.1 and D.1

Type: Examination

Groupwork: Individual

Weight: 45%

Task: The open-book exam is in the form of multiple choice, short answer questions, plus system design
and evaluation problems.

It covers specified chapters, lectures, learning materials, and tutorials.

Requires application of knowledge, techniques, evaluation, and resources to solve problems.

Due: UTS Exam period

Assessment feedback
Before the census date assessment feedback is available as follows:
• answers to chapter exercises available online, and tutorial classes

Throughout the semester assessment feedback is available as follows:

• answers to chapter exercises available online and tutorial classes
• Reports on Lab workshop – feedback is given in tutorial class
• Project feedback available in tutorial class

Minimum requirements
In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more.

Required texts
Kurose, J. & Ross, K. Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach, Global Edition, 8th Edition, Pearson, 2022

ebook: https://www.pearson.com/store/p/computer-networking-global-edition/P100003086736/9781292419978

Graduate attribute development

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Graduate attribute development
For a full list of the faculty's graduate attributes refer to the FEIT Graduate Attributes webpage.

For the contribution of subjects taken in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or Master of Professional Engineering
to the Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies, see the faculty's Graduate Attributes and the Engineers Australia
Stage 1 Competencies webpage.

Assessment: faculty procedures and advice

Marking criteria

Marking criteria for each assessment task is available on the Learning Management System: Canvas.

Extensions

When, due to extenuating circumstances, you are unable to submit or present an assessment task on time, please
contact your subject coordinator before the assessment task is due to discuss an extension. Extensions may be
granted up to a maximum of 5 days (120 hours). In all cases you should have extensions confirmed in writing.

Special consideration

If you believe your performance in an assessment item or exam has been adversely affected by circumstances
beyond your control, such as a serious illness, loss or bereavement, hardship, trauma, or exceptional employment
demands, you may be eligible to apply for Special Consideration.

Late penalty

For Graded subjects:

Work submitted late without an approved extension is subject to a late penalty of 10 per cent of the total available
marks deducted per calendar day that the assessment is overdue (e.g. if an assignment is out of 40 marks, and is
submitted (up to) 24 hours after the deadline without an extension, the student will have four marks deducted from
their awarded mark). Work submitted after five calendar days is not accepted and a mark of zero is awarded.

For some assessment tasks a late penalty may not be appropriate – these are clearly indicated in the subject outline.
Such assessments receive a mark of zero if not completed by/on the specified date. Examples include:
a. weekly online tests or laboratory work worth a small proportion of the subject mark, or
b. online quizzes where answers are released to students on completion, or
c. professional assessment tasks, where the intention is to create an authentic assessment that has an absolute
submission date, or
d. take-home papers that are assessed during a defined time period, or
e. pass/fail assessment tasks.

For Pass/Fail subjects:

Work submitted late without an approved extension will only be assessed at the subject coordinator’s discretion.
Students who do not submit assessment tasks by the due dates may be referred to the Responsible Academic Officer
under Student Rule 3.8.2, and a fail result may be recorded for the subject.

Request a review of a result

If you believe an error may have been made in the calculation of your result in an assessment task or the final result
for the subject, it is possible to request a review of a result with the Subject Coordinator within five (5) working days of
the date of release of the result.

Academic liaison officer

Academic liaison officers (ALOs) are academic staff in each faculty who assist students experiencing difficulties in
their studies due to: disability and/or an ongoing health condition; carer responsibilities (e.g. being a primary carer for
small children or a family member with a disability); and pregnancy.

ALOs are responsible for approving adjustments to assessment arrangements for students in these categories.
Students who require adjustments due to disability and/or an ongoing health condition are requested to discuss their
situation with an accessibility consultant at the Accessibility Service before speaking to the relevant ALO.

Statement about assessment procedures and advice

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Statement about assessment procedures and advice
This subject outline must be read in conjunction with the Coursework Assessments Policy and the Courswork
Assessments Procedure.

Statement on copyright
Please remember that teaching materials and resources provided to you at UTS are protected by copyright. You are
not permitted to re-use those for any purposes (including commercial purposes, in kind benefit or gain) without
permission of the copyright owner. Breaching copyright in relation to teaching materials and resources could lead to a
legal action being brought against you.

Statement on plagiarism
Plagiarism and academic integrity

At UTS, plagiarism is defined in Rule 16.2.1(4) as: 'taking and using someone else's ideas or manner of expressing
them and passing them off as their own by failing to give appropriate acknowledgement of the source to seek to gain
an advantage by unfair means'.

The definition infers that if a source is appropriately referenced, the student's work will meet the required academic
standard. Plagiarism is a literary or an intellectual theft and is unacceptable both academically and professionally. It
can take a number of forms including but not limited to:
copying any section of text, no matter how brief, from a book, journal, article or other written source without duly
acknowledging the source
copying any map, diagram, table or figure without duly acknowledging the source
paraphrasing or otherwise using the ideas of another author without duly acknowledging the source
re-using sections of verbatim text without using quote marks to indicate the text was copied from the source (even if
a reference is given).

Other breaches of academic integrity that constitute cheating include but are not limited to:
submitting work that is not a student's own, copying from another student, recycling another student's work,
recycling previously submitted work, and working with another student in the same cohort in a manner that exceeds
the boundaries of legitimate cooperation
purchasing an assignment from a website and submitting it as original work
requesting or paying someone else to write original work, such as an assignment, essay or computer program, and
submitting it as original work.

Students who condone plagiarism and other breaches of academic integrity by allowing their work to be copied are
also subject to student misconduct Rules.

Where proven, plagiarism and other breaches of misconduct are penalised in accordance with UTS Student Rules
Section 16 – Student misconduct and appeals.

Avoiding plagiarism is one of the main reasons why the Faculty of Engineering and IT is insistent on the thorough and
appropriate referencing of all written work. Students may seek assistance regarding appropriate referencing through
UTS: HELPS.

Work submitted electronically may be subject to similarity detection software. Student work must be submitted in a
format able to be assessed by the software (e.g. doc, pdf (text files), rtf, html).

Further information about avoiding plagiarism at UTS is available.

Retention of student work

The University reserves the right to retain the original or one copy of any work executed and/or submitted by a student
as part of the course including, but not limited to, drawings, models, designs, plans and specifications, essays,
programs, reports and theses, for any of the purposes designated in Student Rule 3.9.2. Such retention is not to affect
any copyright or other intellectual property right that may exist in the student's work. Copies of student work may be
retained for a period of up to five years for course accreditation purposes. Students are advised to contact their subject
coordinator if they do not consent to the University retaining a copy of their work.

Statement on UTS email account

Email from the University to a student will only be sent to the student's UTS email address. Email sent from a student

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to the University must be sent from the student's UTS email address. University staff will not respond to email from
any other email accounts for currently enrolled students.

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