Welcome to the School of Computing

computer networks (70025)

Purpose

This module introduces the fundamental building blocks that form a modern network, such as protocols, media, topologies, and hardware. It then provides in depth coverage of the most important concepts in contemporary networking, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, wireless transmission, virtual networks, security, and troubleshooting. After completing this course and completing the exercises, students will be equipped to select the best network design, hardware and software. Students will also acquire the skills to build a network from scratch and maintain, upgrade, troubleshoot, and manage an existing network.

Target group

This course is suitable for students who need to learn the technical skills and industry know-how required to begin an exciting career installing, confguring, and troubleshooting computer networks.

Admission requirements

Matriculation certifcate or equivalent qualifcation.
Intermediate level experience in using computers and computer networks OR an introductory course in computer or telecommunication networks.

Duration

Year course

Language medium

English

Tuition method

This course is presented in a paperless, web-based mode. Students require a permanent e-mail address as well as a personal Internet connection, which may be at home or from work. An Internet Cafe solution is not a suitable Internet connection, since most of these types of connections do not allow for PDF readable formats, which is the basic format of all electronic notes of this course. Course notes are made available on the web and the download of the material is the responsibility of the student.

Kind of assessment

Note: Formative assessment and examination admission will comply with UNISA's formative assessment rules and policies.
Formative assessment: Four assignments per module throughout the year.
Summative assessment: One non-venue based portfolio-based assessment

Syllabus/Course Content

MODULE 1

Introduction to Networking
Infrastructure and Documentation
Addressing
Protocols
Cabling
Wireless Networking

MODULE 2

Network Architecture
Segmentation
Wide Area Networking
Risk Management
Security in Network Design
Performance and Recovery

Course Fee

Web-based course (CSNW1W8: R 2 744 and CSNW2WA: R2 744). Total: R5 488 (full course fees payable on registration). The course fees include the textbook.

Study package

The prescribed book: CompTia Network+ Guide to Networks by Jill West, 9th Edition, 2022. Cengage Learning, ISBN-13: 978-0-357-508138, ISBN-10: 0-357-508130.

Course leader

Dr H. Abdullah
E-mail: ucl@unisa.ac.za

Programme Administrator

Admin Officer
Unisa Centre for Lifelong Learning
360 Lillian Ngoyi Street, Pretoria Central
Solomon Mahlangu Building 2nd floor
Tel: 012 352 4288
Email address: UCL@unisa.ac.za

Registration information

URL: www.unisa.ac.za/ucl

Link to apply for the short course: www.unisa.ac.za/applyslp