Common Course Outline

Course discipline/number/title COMP 1080: Networking Protocols and Analysis

Catalog Description

Credits 4
Hours/Week 4 (4 lecture)
Prerequisites (Course discipline/number) COMP 1150, MATH 0099
Other requirements None
MnTC Goals (if any) NA

Course Description

This class examines the basic principles of networking, transitioning from protocols (TCP, UDP, ICMP, and IP), network architecture, and the OSI model into network defense. Networks are the lifeblood of an organization as packets transition from one device to another through internal and external communications. Cybersecurity professionals must have a strong understanding of network processes, protocols, and administration. This course will focus on developing skills in creating network architecture, network administration, network analysis, and how to apply this knowledge to improve the network security posture through defense in depth.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

November, 2023

Outline of Major Content Areas

  1. Introduction to Networking Fundamentals
  2. Basic Networking Concepts
  3. Network Services and Connections
  4. Network Topologies and Cloud Technologies
  5. Types of Network Topologies
  6. Introduction to Cloud Networking
  7. Routing Technologies and Devices
  8. Ethernet, LAN, and WAN
  9. SDN, NAT, and Wireless Networking
  10. Network Protocols: TCP, UDP, ICMP, and IP
  11. OSI Model Overview
  12. Protocol Classification and Roles
  13. Identifying Threats to Networks
  14. System Protection Strategies
  15. Introduction to Cryptography
  16. Wireless Security
  17. Wireless Protocols and Risks
  18. Secure Wireless Configuration
  19. Monitoring and Optimization
  20. Network Monitoring Tools
  21. Optimization for Business Continuity
  22. Disaster Planning in Network Security
  23. Disaster Planning Strategies
  24. Risk Analysis in Networking
  25. Policy Development and Physical Security
  26. Policy Guidelines and Implementation
  27. Role of Physical Security
  28. The Economics and Ethics of Network Security
  29. Cost-Benefit Analysis
  30. Legal and Ethical Considerations
  31. Common Network Troubleshooting Techniques
  32. Connectivity Issues
  33. Software Challenges
  34. Network Hardening Practices
  35. Best Practices for Secure Configuration
  36. Security Impact Assessment

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

  1. Design network architecture focusing on security and performance.
  2. Classify networking devices and their impacts to network security at an organizational level.
  3. Distinguish between the seven layers of the OSI model and what protocols are involved at the various levels.
  4. Interpret network packets and identify signs of threats to the organization.
  5. Identify network threats through protocol and device analysis and the impacts on the security of the enterprise.
  6. Define and implement network hardening practices.
  7. Discern the differences between and analyze TCP, UDP, IP, ICMP, and other networking protocols.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

NA

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking
Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

None