The main goal of the course is to provide students introductory information on the topic of computer networks. Students obtain knowledge on  basic principles and concepts of network operation and applications. The course is focused on data-link and network layer, especially on Ethernet technology family and TCP/IP protocol suite. Hands-on labs providing experience with configuring networking equipment and protocol analysis are integral part of the course.

• Lectures: Dr. Tomas Palenik : tomas.palenik@stuba.sk, mail AIS: tomas.palenik@is.stuba.sk 

• Labs: Ing. Ladislav Divinec : ladislav.divinec@stuba.sk, mail AIS:  xdivinec@is.stuba.sk 

• Lecture schedule: Monday 8:00.  GMeet: https://meet.google.com/bjk-hcrz-ude 

• Labs schedule: - Tuesday 8:00 and 10:00. GMeet: https://meet.google.com/xrb-niab-udp 

• You must be logged in using your university-provided Google account. Check out the login manual.

Lecture Syllabus

1. Introduction to computer networks, basic terminology, concepts and principles: addressing modes, topologies, network taxonomy.

2. Layered model of network communication, encapsulation principle, ISO/OSI reference model & TCP/IP network model. 

3. Technologies of the PHY & MAC layer of network communication: structured cabling. IEEE standardization. Some slides are here.

4. Link layer: introduction to Ethernet networks. CSMA/CD –vs- full duplex. Some slides are here.

5. Network layer: IPv4 protocol – addressing, IP datagram. CIDR. ARP and ICMP. 

6. Network layer: routing in IPv4. CIDR. Routing protocols. RIP & OSPF. Introduction to NAT.

7. Transport layer introduction: TCP –vs- UDP. Introduction to DHCP.

8. Transport layer – mechanisms of TCP protocol. DNS system

9. Link layer: LLC mechanisms, IEEE 802.1Q, VLAN, IEEE 802.3 standard evolution.

10. Application layer protocols. web and  email technologies introduction. Some slides here.

11. The IEEE 802.11 standard - evolution of WiFi.

12. TBA

Labs Syllabus & Assignments:

1. Introduction, converting between decimal and binary and masking IP addresses  - download assignment here. 

2. IPv4: subnetting and supernetting. VLSM - introduction. Download assignment here.

3. IPv4: subnetting and supernetting. VLSM - conclusion. Carefull: the deadline for coursework submission is on 10th October.

4. Introduction to computer network simulation  - Download assignement here.

5. (Virtual) visit to Cisco Netacad lab. Carefull: the schedule will slightly change to Thursday 21.10. 10:00. Both groups will be together. 

6. Computer network simulation - static routing - Download assignment here.

7. Computer network simulation - dynamic routing - Download assignment here.

8. Computer network simulation - consulting  simulation labs, Topology annotation here.

9. Computer network simulation - checkpoint #1 - 16th November 2021

10. Built-in command line network diagnostic tools in Linux & Windows. Playing with Wireshark.

11. Configuring simulated topology - L3 switches, VLANs & trunks - Download assignment here.

12. Configuring simulated topology - L3 switches, VLANs & trunks -  checkpoint #2

• IETF RFC database www.rfc-editor.org

• IEEE Standards standards.ieee.org

• Computer Networks Turorial www.tutorialspoint.com

• W. Richard Stevens: TCP/IP Illustrated

• School Microsoft Office 365 - alailable to STU students for free !