Systems and Networks
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| COMP4129 | School of Computer Science | 4 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- COMP4129
- School
- School of Computer Science
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
This module is part of the Operating Systems and Networks theme. The module gives an introduction to the role of the operating system and how it manages computer resources such as memory, processes and disks. Unix is introduced in terms of the Unix file structure, Input and Output and the Command Line Interface that is used to manipulate these. Computer communication is taught with respect to the Client-Server Architecture and applications that use this. Underlying protocols, such as those in the TCP/IP protocol suite, are introduced, as commonly used in the Internet to provide a universal service. This includes IPv4 and IPv6, the need for IPv6 and how the two differ. Types of computer networks are covered in terms of scale, such as LANs and WANs, and in terms of wired and wireless networks. Mechanisms for connecting networks such as routers, switches and bridges are covered. Other topics include the role of gateways, proxies, Virtual Private Networks and cloud computing. Potential security risks like the use of firewalls are also examined in this module.
Target Students
Available to Level 4 PGT students in the School of Computer Science with no previous degree related to computer science. Available to students with intercalated year in computer science. This module is not available to students not listed above without explicit approval from the module convenor(s). This module is part of the Operating Systems, Networks and Security theme in the School of Computer Science.
Classes
- One 1-hour workshop each week for 11 weeks
- Three 1-hour lectures each week for 11 weeks
Assessment
- 25% Coursework 1
- 75% Exam 1 (2-hour)
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To give an understanding of the role of the operating system and how it manages computer resources and components, and of how hosts are networked and the technologies used to enable computer communication.Learning Outcomes
Intellectual Skills
Think independently while giving due weight to the arguments of others.
Understand complex ideas and relate them to specific problems or questions.
Professional Skills
Understand the purposes of computer operating systems and processes.
Understand basic Unix commands and how to navigate the file system.
Understand how computer technologies work together to provide internetworking between host computers.
Appreciate the challenges associated with computer networking and how these might be overcome.
Evaluate approaches and technologies in computer networks and select those which are fit for purpose within a given domain.
Transferable Skills
Solve problems.
Retrieve information from appropriate sources (e.g. learning resource centre, internet, etc.).