Cybersecurity Center

CSEC321 Network Fundamentals

Introduction to the diverse software and hardware components of a computer network. Topics include OSI and TCP/IP network architecture, overview of TCP/IP protocols, access networks, network topologies, circuit, packet and virtual circuit switching, switched LANs, and LAN Security. Prerequisite: CS 114 or 214.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to describe the fundamental networking concepts. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of hardware and software components of a computer network. 
  • Explain OSI and TCP/IP network architecture, ethernet, overview of TCP/IP protocols, access networks, network topologies, circuit, packet and virtual circuit switching, switched LANs. 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of layer Ethernet.
  • Explain simple network architectures with a set of nodes. 
  • Students will be able to trace and identify the packets involved in a simple TCP connection. Use tools such as Wireshark to view network packets. 
  • Describe common wired and wireless network vulnerabilities.