Computer Networks

Network is definitely one of the most important section in Computer Science and Information Technology. Computer Networks is a subject that deals with the various types of networks available, the hardware devices that make up a network, the kinds of signals passed in a network. It also deals with what exactly runs the network with context to a terminal, the rules that the network follows, the different types of network error detection and correction methods. Security of the network is also included. The most important part that shouldbe focussed is the TCP/IP section in computer networks. TCP/IP is what the internet runs on. This subject is very interesting if more knowledge is acquired using various books which are mentioned below. One book is not sufficient for this subject and a practical approach as well as small demonstrations make this subject very lively.


syllabus

Introduction:
History of Network Developments, Network Hardware, Network Software. Mode of transmission: - Asynchronous and Synchronous Transmission, Half and Full duplex Transmission, Concept of DTE and DCE, Concept of Intrefacing DTE and DCE. OSI Reference Model (7 Layers):- Functions of each OSI Model Layer. The Physical Layer: - Transmission media, Introduction to various Connections used in Network: - RJ 45, RS -232, etc. The Data Link Layer: - Stop " and " Wait Flow Control, Sliding " Window Flow Control, Error Detection, Cyclic Redundancy Check, Stop " and - Wait ARQ, Selective " Reject ARQ, High- level Data Link Control (HDLC) and its Operation, X.25 Protocol, Token bus and Token Ring. Multiplexing: TDM, TDM link control, Framing, Pulse Stuffing, FDM, Statistical TDM. Switching Concepts: Circuit Switching, Packet Switching: - Datagram Approach, Virtual Circuit Approach. The Network Layer: - Routing: - Characteristics, Performance Criteria, Decision time and place. Routing Strategies:- Alternate Routing, Adaptive Routing, Fixed Routing, Flooding. Congestion Control. The IP Protocol: - IP Addressing, Subnets, Internet Control Protocols. The TCP Protocol: - the TCP Segment Header, TCP Connection Management. The Application Layer: - DNS, SNMP. Introduction to Equipments used in Networking: - Bridges, Hubs, Switches, and Routers. Concepts of Network Security:- Encryption , Public Key, Digital Signature, Introduction to Other Technologies:- ATM, Frame Relay, ISDN, VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) communication, Global positioning System (GPS).

Distributed Computing:
Fundamentals, What is Distributed Computing? Evolution of DCS, DC System Models, Advantages and Disadvantages of DCS, Comparison with Centralized OS.

Reference:
Computer Networks by "Andrew S. Tanenbaum (4th Edition)
Data and Computer Communication by "William Stallings"


Books:

OSI LAYERS 

Data Communication And Networking