Unit Outline

In this unit, you will learn how computer networks are constructed, how they work, and how modern applications use the services provided by modern computer networks. The concept of protocol layering will be explored to learn how computer networks operate, using the OSI Model and TCIP/IP protocol suite as examples, including an examination of the functionality and protocols provided by the different layers of these systems. You will use this information to design a network to industry specifications. This unit also incorporates learning through practice by exposing you to authentic learning experiences. These experiences are placed at the centre of learning and assessment, for you to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to respond to industry, community and/or global needs. You will be introduced to: - a range of methods, tools, techniques and approaches to practice - principles and perspectives such as values, ethics, empathy and leadership in real world scenarios - reflection and deliberative thinking as a means of developing knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations - ways of understanding problems and developing solutions through active inquiry

Intended Learning Outcomes

As per the Assessment and Results Policy 1.3, your results will reflect your achievement against specified learning outcomes.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:


1.	Identify the technical aspects of secure networking.
2.	Analyse network protocols, processes and security principles in computer networking.
3.	Communicate solutions to real-world problems
4.	Evaluate knowledge, practices and protocols in computer networks and cyber security

Requisites


REQUISITE TYPE	REQUISITES
Anti-requisite (mutual excl)	ZAT101

Alterations as a result of student feedback

Based on student feedback, the criteria for assessments have been revised for clarity and to better align with the intended learning outcomes for the unit.

How will I be Assessed?

For more detailed assessment information please see MyLO.

Assessment schedule


ASSESSMENT TASK #	ASSESSMENT TASK NAME	DATE DUE	WEIGHT	LINKS TO INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES
Assessment Task 1:	AT1: Operating System Comparison Report	Week 5	30 %	LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4
Assessment Task 2:	AT2: Practical Networking Tasks	Week 9	30 %	LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4
Assessment Task 3:	AT3: Case Study Report	Week 13	40 %	LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4

Assessment details

Assessment Task 1: AT1: Operating System Comparison Report

Task Description:

You will be provided with a business case study and three operating systems that you will be asked to compare based on the needs of the organisation.

You are required to apply your developing academic skills to research:
1. The services provided by the operating system
2. The resource and financial requirements of each operating system
3. The maintenance required for each operating system, and
4. The security provided by each operating system.

You will use your research and comparisons to provide a recommendation to the case study organisation, along with the details required to deploy the system.

Task Length:

1000 words, excluding tables, figures, and references.

Due Date:

Week 5

Weight:

30 %

CRITERION #

CRITERION

MEASURES INTENDED

LEARNING OUTCOME(S)


1	Identify the usability and operational requirements within the case study	LO1
2	Identify the functional and security requirements within the case study	LO1
3	Analyse the gaps between operating system capability and organisational requirements	LO2
4	Provide a justified recommendation based on the requirements of the organisation	LO3
5	Evaluate and prioritise the security and networking needs of the organisation	LO4

Assessment Task 2: AT2: Practical Networking Tasks

Task Description:

You are required to complete and report on 3 practical networking tasks, applying practical skills that are required for computer networking
professionals.
The first task will require you to map your personal home network, with all devices currently or previously connected via your router.
The second task will require you to use the packet tracking software Wireshark to view communications on your personal home network, identifying the IP addresses, internet protocols, and encapsulation present.
The third task will require you to apply the algorithms of subnetting for partitioning and assigning IP addresses to devices on a network based on the access levels assigned to the device users.
Each of these tasks will require both the identification of key concepts and the application of discipline skills to recommend improvements for security and efficiency.

Task Length:

3 major tasks

Due Date:

Week 9

Weight:

30 %

CRITERION #

CRITERION

MEASURES INTENDED

LEARNING OUTCOME(S)


1	Plan and execute technical tasks for secure networking	LO1
2	Apply discipline and practice-based skills to create and communicate technical solutions	LO3
3	Describe relevant industry best practices for computer networking	LO2
4	Reflect on solutions given and their applicability within industry	LO4

Assessment Task 3: AT3: Case Study Report

Task Description:

You are required to complete a report related to a practical network design and implementation case study.
The report will consist of sections including:
• Network design aims and objectives
• Administration policy and procedure
• OSI Reference Model Layer network design and implementation
• Define network security and principles

This semester’s report will be based on the networking requirements of a real Tasmanian Small to Medium Enterprise (SME). It will require you to design and implement an effective computer network, and report on the outcomes. It will also require you to reflect on your own understanding of computer networks and the decisions you made during the design process.

Task Length:

1000 words and supporting artefacts (including network topology diagrams and documentary evidence of having completed practical design and implementation activities).

Due Date:

Week 13

Weight:

40 %

CRITERION #

CRITERION

MEASURES INTENDED

LEARNING OUTCOME(S)


1	Identify and communicate the current technical issues described in the case study	LO1
2	Identify and evaluate the current procedural issues described in the case study	LO2
3	Plan and describe solutions to improve network infrastructure, process, and security	LO3
4	Evaluate and present security risks within critical and complex contexts	LO4
5	Evaluate your contribution, and the contribution of others, towards the design of a secure network solution	LO4

How your final result is determined

To pass this unit, you need to demonstrate your attainment of each of the Intended Learning Outcomes, achieve a final unit grade of 50% or greater, and pass any hurdle tasks.

Submission of assignments

Where practicable, assignments should be submitted to an assignment submission folder in MYLO. You must submit assignments by the due date or receive a penalty (unless an extension of time has been approved by the Unit Coordinator). Students submitting any assignment in hard copy, or because of a practicum finalisation, must attach a student cover sheet and signed declaration for the submission to be accepted for marking.

Requests for extensions

If you are unable to submit an assessment task by the due date, you should apply for an extension.

A request for an extension should first be discussed with your Unit Coordinator or teaching support team where possible. A request for an extension must be submitted by the assessment due date, except where you can provide evidence it was not possible to do so. Typically, an application for an extension will be supported by documentary evidence: however, where it is not possible for you to provide evidence please contact your Unit Coordinator.

The Unit Coordinator must notify you of the outcome of an extension request within 3 working days of receiving the request.

Late penalties

Assignments submitted after the deadline will receive a late penalty of 5% of the original available mark for each calendar day (or part day) that the assignment is late. Late submissions will not be accepted more than 10 calendar days after the due date, or after assignments have been returned to other students on a scheduled date, whichever occurs first. Further information on Late Penalties can be found on the Assessments and Results Procedure.

Review of results and appeals

You are entitled to ask for a review of the marking and grading of your assessment task if there is an irregularity in the marking standards or an error in the process for determining the outcome of an assessment. Details on how to request a review of a mark for an assignment are outlined in the Review and Appeal of Academic Decisions Procedure.