2021/22 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
ELEC5471M Data Communications and Network Security
15 creditsClass Size: 100
Module manager: Professor Andrew Kemp
Email: A.H.Kemp@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 Sep to 31 Jan (adv yr), Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2021/22
This module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
The teaching and assessment methods shown below will be kept under review during 2021-22. In particular, if conditions allow for alternative formats of delivery, we may amend the timetable and schedule appropriate classes in addition to (or in place of) any online activities/sessions. Where learning activities are scheduled to take place on campus, it may be possible and/or necessary for some students to join these sessions remotely. Some of the listed contact hours may also be optional surgeries. Students will be provided with full information about the arrangements for all of these activities by the module staff at the beginning of the teaching semester.‘Independent online learning’ may involve watching pre-recorded lecture material or screen-casts, engaging in learning activities such as online worked examples or mini-projects, etc. Students will be expected to fully engage with all of these activities. The time commitment for independent online learning, and also the frequency and duration of online sessions are approximate and intended as a guide only. Further details will be confirmed when the module commences.Where assessments are shown as Online Time-Limited Assessments, the durations shown are indicative only. The actual time permitted for individual assessments will be confirmed prior to the assessments taking place.Objectives
To provide students with a knowledge and understanding of data communications networks and their use in a range of applications, and to consider the need for network security and appropriate security measures.Learning outcomes
On completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Explain the principles behind the organisation and operation of communications networks.
2. Use mathematical methods and modelling techniques in the analysis of communications networks, including a broad range of network architectures and protocols.
3. Explain the detailed mechanisms for network flow control in local area networks.
4. Discuss the importance of routing and congestion control in the context of wide-area and global networks.
5. Discuss the security issues associated with communications networks and the principles of network security protection.
6. Discuss the high-level protocols and advanced systems used in current and next-generation technology.
7. Apply strategic planning, systems implementation and operating methods to data communications and sensor networks.
Syllabus
Topics may include, but are not limited to:
The ISO/OSI 7-layer model, and TCP/IP structure
The use of layering, protocols, interfaces etc
Data types, data communications, and networking terminology
Data link control, particularly error control methods such as detection and correction, (parity checks, checksumming, CRC, - ARQ, sequence numbers), flow control, address resolution and wireless LANs
The network layer, IP datagrams, fragmentation and reassembly, IP addresses, routing principles (link-state, distance vector), Internet routing and QoS support
TCP/IP provision and IPv6 (and IPv6 and IPv4 interoperability) and mobility
Basics of network security
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| On-line Learning | 10 | 1.00 | 10.00 |
| Laboratory | 5 | 3.00 | 15.00 |
| Independent online learning hours | 11.00 | ||
| Private study hours | 114.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 25.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Private study
Students are expected to use private study time to consolidate their understanding of course materials, to undertake preparatory work for seminars, workshops, tutorials, examples classes and practical classes, and also to prepare for in-course and summative assessments.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Students studying ELEC modules will receive formative feedback in a variety of ways, including the use of self-test quizzes on Minerva, practice questions/worked examples and (where appropriate) through verbal interaction with teaching staff and/or post-graduate demonstrators.Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Assignment | Assignment 1 | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 30.00 | |
Resits for ELEC and XJEL modules are subject to the School's Resit Policy and the Code of Practice on Assessment (CoPA), which are available on Minerva. Students should be aware that, for some modules, a resit may only be conducted on an internal basis (with tuition) in the next academic session.
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 2 hr 00 mins | 30.00 |
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 2 hr 00 mins | 40.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 70.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
There is no reading list for this moduleLast updated: 29/06/2021 16:47:30
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD