CSE 320 Computer Networks

Lecture 1
Dr. Zawar Hussain Shah

Assistant Professor

Department of Electrical Engineering

SEECS, NUST
 Today’s Lecture
 What is a Computer Network?
 Applications of Computer Networks
 Why Study Computer Networks?
 Grading Policy
 Course Objectives
 Course Contents
 Books
 Policies
 Contact Details
 What is a Computer
Network?
A Computer Network is an interconnected group of
autonomous computing nodes which can meaningfully and
(preferably) controllably communicate with one-another.

Rules and conventions that allow meaningful and

unambiguous communication between members of a
Computer Network are collectively called Network
Protocols.

In real-life networks, often a set of related functions are

handled by a group of closely tied protocols which
constitute a Protocol Family (also known as a Protocol
Suite).
 Defining a Computer
Network
A Computer Network is an interconnected group of
autonomous computing nodes which:

 Use a well-defined, mutually-agreed set of rules

and conventions known as Protocols,
Interact with one-another, if duly authenticated and
authorized
Allow resource-sharing preferably in a predictable
and controllable manner.
Applications of Computer
Networks
Why Study Computer Networks?

 Increased productivity through efficient usage of

networking technology.
 Skills to develop state of the art innovations.

 Improved employment and earning potential.

 Masters and PhDs

 CCNA, MCSE short courses.

 Course Objectives
Objectives of this course are,
1. Conceptual introduction to Computer Networks
and its design principles.
2. Understand the TCP/IP protocol suite and the
working of the Internet.
3. Form a basic understanding of the principles
upon which the global Internet was designed.
 Course Contents
 What is the Internet?
 Protocols Layers and Services Model
 History of Internet
 Application Layer
 HTTP, FTP
 Transport Layer
 TCP ,UDP
 Network Layer
 IPv4 addressing
 Course Contents
 Link Layer
 Error Detection Techniques
 Hubs, Bridges and Switches
 Multimedia Networking
 SIP
 Voice over IP (VoIP)
 Network Security
 Principles of Cryptography
Text Book
Reference Books
 Grading Policy

Quizzes : 10 %
One Hour Tests : 30 %
Assignments : 05 %
Research Paper : 05 %
Final Exam : 50 %
 Policies
 Bring your own calculator, pen paper etc..
 You will not be allowed to borrow anything
from anyone during any quiz/test.
 No late work will be accepted (unless
arrangements have been made in advance).
 Ask questions; participate actively in class.
 You are allowed to talk to the instructor only.
 Policies
 You are responsible for what is covered in
class – even if you don’t attend the class.
 Deficiency in attendance may lead to
termination or relegation.
 You are encouraged to help each other with
your homework assignments – but you must
submit your own work.
 If you are found to be cheating, you will fail
the assignment/quiz.
 Policies
 If you have any learning disabilities or special
needs, please let me know in advance through
email or personal meeting.
 Quizzes are mostly unannounced, however,
announced quizzes can also be taken.
How to Survive this
Course
 Materials sound simple and easy, but they are not.
 Do not leave everything to the exam night!.
 Not copy the homework!, try them by yourself.
 You can read the book by yourself, but the class
makes the life for you easier.
 You will learn more in the class then by simply
reading the book and other course material.
 Contact Details

 Office:
Faculty Block, First floor, A-207
Phone No: 051-90852129
 Consulting Hours:
Wednesday 1000 – 1100 hrs
 Email:
zawar.hussain@seecs.edu.pk
 Exceptional meeting:
Send me an email and get time.