Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

To be able to take this module, it is necessary for students to have a good foundation and knowledge of mathematics, MATLAB, communications and signal processing.

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

Communications networks is one of the fastest growing fields in the engineering world, and a tremendous interest for this topic exists among students. The purpose of the course is to:

- Introduce the students to the advanced topics in communications networks and security, their evolution and impacts on modern society.
- Introduce a broad coverage of modern communication networks and technologies.
- Develop students' lifelong learning skills by covering current and future security/ encryption algorithms, and emerging communication technologies. Additionally, expose them to actively evolving research topics.

Outline Of Syllabus

The syllabus will be divided into four parts as follows:
1. Evaluation of communications networks, and related protocols and architectures, i.e., ISO/OSI reference model and its application in networking, TCP/IP and its comparison with the OSI Model.
2. Communications networks transmission principles: Examination of switching technologies and their role in modern communication networks; In-depth study of error and flow control techniques and standards; performance issues and analyses; detailed description of medium access and protocols.
3. Understanding of encryption algorithms for privacy and security as applied to modern communications: Introduction to the concept of a cipher system and its relevance in modern communications. Examination of public-key and private-key cryptosystems for enhancing privacy and security.
4. Develop Self-Learning skills: Each student can select a topic from a list of recent advances in wired/ wireless communications and security, study it in depth and present it to his/her group.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of the module a student should be able to:
1) Evaluate communications networks and systems: This includes aspect such as performance, reliability, scalability, and fault tolerance and considerations for different types of networks (e.g., wired, wireless, local area networks, wide area networks) and their integration. (M1, M2 and M3).
2) Evaluate and compare commonly used flow and error control techniques as applied to communications networks: These cover aspects like effectiveness, efficiency, and adaptability to different network environments. (M1, M2, M3)
3) Evaluate encryption algorithms including consideration of emerging threats and the evolving landscape of cybersecurity to emphasise the dynamic nature of the field (M3 and M4).

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of this module a student will be able to:
1) Demonstrate the proficiency in systematically analysing telecommunications systems, considering factors such as network architecture, protocols, and scalability. (M1, M2 and M3)
2) Develop skills to evaluate the practical implications of encryption algorithm choices, considering computational efficiency, resistance to attacks, and adaptability to evolving security standards. (M3, M5, M7)
3) Demonstrate advanced analytical skills in evaluating the performance of error and flow control techniques and systems, including the ability to identify bottlenecks and propose optimisations. (M3, M5)
4) Develop the ability to independently pursue "life-long" learning, staying abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and research advancements. (M4, M5)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Learning outcomes are achieved by a combination of lectures, Tutorials, and self-directed learning (SDL). In the lectures, the students are introduced to the fundamentals of communications networks and security. The tutorials allow students to critically evaluate different network protocols and encryption algorithms, while in the SDL part of the module, the students are directed to study and investigate current and future trends and developments in encryption techniques and communications network systems, aimed at 'life-long' learning. This will equip them with the necessary skills and time management required in self-study that will be needed in their future careers.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The concepts introduced in the lectures and through independent study will be assessed via a final written exam. (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M7)

The learning in tutorials will contribute to formative assessments. (M3, M4, M5)

General Notes

N/A