COMPUTER NETWORKS
IT3304 3 0 2 4
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
The main objectives of this course are to:
Understand Fundamental Networking Concepts
Explore Advanced Data Link and Network Layer Technologies.
Enhance Knowledge of Transport and Application Layer Protocols.
Develop Proficiency in Network Security and Emerging Technologies.
Hands-On Experience through Simulations and Experiments.
UNIT I - INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKING 9
Overview of Computer Networks: Definition and importance of computer networks - Historical
development of networking, Layering in Network Architectures: OSI model overview - TCP/IP
protocol stack - Functions and responsibilities of each layer, Switching Techniques: Packet switching
basics - Circuit-switching and virtual circuit-switching concepts, Data Link Layer: Framing techniques
- Error detection methods - Medium Access Control (MAC) protocols - Ethernet bridging
UNIT II - ROUTING AND IP ADDRESSING 9
Routing Protocols: Shortest path routing - Flooding algorithm - Distance vector routing - Link state
routing, Fragmentation and IP Addressing: Basics of IP addressing - IPv4 addressing - CIDR notation -
Fragmentation in network communication, IP Support Protocols: Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) -
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) - Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) - Network
Address Translation (NAT)
UNIT III - TRANSPORT LAYER 9
Flow Control and Congestion Control: Basics of flow control - Congestion control mechanisms,
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): TCP features and functionalities, TCP connection establishment,
maintenance, and termination, User Datagram Protocol (UDP): Characteristics and usage scenarios -
Comparison with TCP, Sockets: Overview of sockets in network programming
UNIT IV - APPLICATION LAYER PROTOCOLS 9
Domain Name System (DNS): DNS fundamentals - DNS resolution process, Simple Mail Transfer
Protocol (SMTP): Email communication basics - SMTP operation, Hypertext Transfer Protocol
(HTTP): Basics of web communication, HTTP request-response model, File Transfer Protocol (FTP):
FTP modes and operation, Security considerations in FTP
UNIT V NETWORK SECURITY AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 9
Network Security Technologies: Intrusion detection systems, firewalls, VPNs. Blockchain Technology
in Networking: Basics of blockchain, applications in networking. Zero Trust Networking: Concepts
and implementation strategies
45 PERIODS
CIT - Computer Networks Notes
,PRACTICAL EXERCISE
1 Learn to use commands like tcp dump, netstat,ifconfig, nslookup and trace route. Capture
ping and trace route PDUs using a network protocol analyzer and examine.
2 Write a HTTP web client program to download a web page using TCPsockets.
3 Applications using TCP sockets like: a) Echo client and echo server b)Chat
4 Simulation of DNS using UDP sockets.
5 Use a tool like Wireshark to capture packets and examine the packets
6 Write a code simulating ARP/RARP protocols.
7 Study of Network simulator (NS) and Simulation of Congestion Control Algorithms using NS.
8 Study of TCP/UDP performance using Simulation tool.
9 Simulation of Distance Vector/Link State Routing algorithm.
10 Simulation of an error correction code(like CRC) TOTAL75 PERIODS
COURSE OUTCOMES:
After the completion of the course the student will be able to
CO1 Apply the fundamentals of communication in networking aspects
CO2 Analyze the various protocols in Physical, Data link, Network, Transport and
Application layers and their mechanisms.
CO3 Design functional aspects for network applications.
CO4 Develop programs that demonstrate the operations of physical, Data Link, Network,
Transport layers.
CO5 Develop programs that demonstrate the operations Application layers.
TEXTBOOKS:
1. Data Communication and Networking, 4th Edition, Behrouz A. Forouzan, McGrawHill.
2. Data and Computer Communication, 8th Edition, William Stallings, Pearson Prentice
Hall India.
3. Computer Networks – A Systems Approach, 4th Edition, Larry L. Peterson and Bruce S.
Davie, Elsevier
REFERENCES:
1. Computer Networks, 8th Edition, Andrew S. Tanenbaum, Pearson New International
Edition. Course Code: BTCS 504-18 Course Title: Computer Networks 3L:1T:0P 3Credits
42 Hours
2. Internetworking with TCP/IP, Volume 1, 6th Edition Douglas Comer, Prentice Hall of
India.
3. TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1, W. Richard Stevens, Addison-Wesley, United States of
America.
E-Book:
An Introduction to Computer Networks Peter L Dordal First - 2020
http://intronetworks.cs.luc.edu
/current/ComputerNetworks
CIT - Computer Networks Notes
, UNIT I
INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKING
Overview of Computer Networks: Definition and importance of computer networks -
Historical development of networking, Layering in Network Architectures: OSI model
overview - TCP/IP protocol stack - Functions and responsibilities of each layer, Switching
Techniques: Packet switching basics - Circuit-switching and virtual circuit-switching
concepts, Data Link Layer: Framing techniques - Error detection methods - Medium
Access Control (MAC) protocols - Ethernet bridging
What is a Network?
A network is a collection of interconnected devices and systems that are capable of sharing
and exchanging data. Networks enable communication and collaboration among devices,
facilitating the efficient transfer of information.
Importance of Computer Networks
Computer networks play a crucial role in modern society, affecting various aspects of daily life
and business operations. Here are some key reasons why computer networks are important:
1. Communication:
o Computer networks facilitate instant communication through emails, messaging
apps, video conferencing, and social media platforms, connecting people across
the globe in real-time.
2. Resource Sharing:
o Networks enable the sharing of resources such as files, printers, and internet
connections, reducing costs and improving efficiency within organizations.
3. Data Management and Storage:
o Centralized data storage and management systems allow for better data
organization, backup, and security. Cloud computing services are a prime
example, providing scalable storage solutions accessible via the network.
4. Collaboration:
o Networks support collaborative work environments, enabling multiple users to
work on the same project simultaneously from different locations, enhancing
productivity and teamwork.
CIT - Computer Networks Notes
, 5. Economic Efficiency:
o By reducing the need for physical infrastructure and enabling remote work,
computer networks contribute to significant cost savings for businesses.
6. Access to Information:
o The internet, a vast network of networks, provides access to a wealth of
information, educational resources, and services, facilitating learning and
research.
7. Entertainment:
o Networks provide platforms for streaming services, online gaming, and social
media, enriching leisure activities and cultural experiences.
8. E-commerce:
o Online shopping and banking have revolutionized commerce, allowing businesses
to reach a global market and providing consumers with convenient shopping
experiences.
9. Automation and Control:
o In industries, computer networks are used to automate processes, monitor
systems, and control machinery, leading to improved precision and productivity.
10. Security and Surveillance:
o Networks support advanced security systems, including surveillance cameras and
alarm systems, enhancing safety in various environments.
11. Healthcare:
o Telemedicine, electronic health records, and online health information systems
improve patient care, streamline healthcare operations, and facilitate remote
consultations.
12. Scalability and Flexibility:
o Networks allow businesses to scale their operations easily, adapting to growth
and changes in demand without significant additional infrastructure investments.
CIT - Computer Networks Notes