Computer Networks (Diaf Mohammed habib

1. Course Title

Computer Networks – Introduction and Fundamentals

2. Prerequisites

Students should have:

  • Basic knowledge of computer architecture (CPU, RAM, storage).

  • Basic understanding of operating systems.

  • Familiarity with binary numbers and simple logic.

  • No advanced networking knowledge required.

3. Course Description

This course introduces the fundamental concepts of computer networking.
Students will learn how computers communicate, how the Internet works, how data is transmitted, and how networks are designed, configured, and secured.
The course combines theory (Cours), practical activities (TP), and tutorial exercises (TD).

4. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

🎯 Knowledge

  • Understand the architecture of computer networks.

  • Explain the OSI and TCP/IP models.

  • Identify different types of networks (LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, etc.).

  • Understand IP addressing, subnetting, and routing.

  • Explain the role of main network protocols.

🎯 Skills

  • Configure a basic network (IP addressing, routing).

  • Use network tools (ping, traceroute, Wireshark).

  • Diagnose simple network problems.

  • Apply basic security principles (VLAN, firewalls, encryption).

5. Course Structure (5 Chapters)

Chapter 1 – Introduction to Computer Networks

  • Network concepts and terminology

  • Types of networks (LAN, WAN, WLAN, MAN)

  • Network topologies

  • Client-server vs peer-to-peer

Chapter 2 – OSI and TCP/IP Models

  • OSI 7 layers

  • TCP/IP 4 layers

  • Encapsulation and decapsulation

  • Role of protocols at each layer

Chapter 3 – IP Addressing & Subnetting

  • IPv4 structure

  • Subnet masks and CIDR notation

  • Public vs private IP addresses

  • IPv6 basics

  • Subnetting calculations

  • Address allocation

Chapter 4 – Network Devices & Routing

  • Switches, routers, access points, firewalls

  • ARP, DHCP, DNS

  • Static routing

  • Introduction to dynamic routing

  • VLANs and segmentation

Chapter 5 – Network Security & Wi-Fi

  • Security threats and protections

  • Firewall basics

  • Encryption (SSL/TLS)

  • Wi-Fi technologies (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax)

  • WPA2/WPA3

  • Network monitoring tools

6. Teaching Methods

  • Cours (Lectures): theoretical concepts

  • TD (Tutorials): problem-solving, subnetting, exercises

  • TP (Lab Work): hands-on practice, network configuration, packet analysis

7. Assessment / Grading

Total grade = 100%

  • 40% Continuous Assessment

    • (TD + TP) / 2

    • Includes quizzes, assignments, and lab performance

  • 60% Final Exam

    • Covers all chapters

    • Combination of theory + solving exercises (IP, routing, etc.)

8. Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to design, configure, analyze, and secure a small to medium-sized network and understand how modern networks function.

Target : Student of Licence 2 informatique