After completing the course, students will be able to:

• understand principles and basic relationships in computer communication in computer networks;
• understand and critically analyze basic design principles and technology decisions for computer networks;
• characterize computer network architectures;
• classify and evaluate computer networks and their infrastructures according to quality criteria;
• name similarities and differences in communication protocols at different levels;
• critically reflect on and assess current technology-political developments on the issue of computer networks (e.g. the transition to IPv6).

The course is delivered using a combination of the following:

• presentation of the basics via contact units;
• working through in-depth compulsory literature via self-study;
• discussion on mandatory specialist literature in the contact units;
• demonstration of software tools;
• practical exercises.

The language of instruction is English. All course material will be provided in English.

This course will be delivered in hybrid mode. Participants will be part of an international classroom and will benefit from international learning opportunities with students from different countries.

Please note that 2 SWS = 4 ECTS = 100 hours required workload.
 

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Lecture 1:

1. Introduction to the course (Objectives, Contents, Delivery, Assessment)
2. Computer Networks Introduction
3. Activities

Lecture 2: 

1. Computer Networks Recap & Quiz
2. The Application Layer Introduction
3. Activities

Lecture 3: 

1. The Application Layer Recap & Quiz
2. The Transport Layer Introduction
3. Activities

​Lecture 4: 

1. Online Intermediate Exam
   • Based on Lecture material and homework from Lectures 1-3
   • Online exam using Learn@WU
   • Duration 60 minutes
   • 30% of the overall grade
2. The Evolution of the Internet

Lecture 5: 

1. The Transport Layer Recap & Quiz
2. The Network Layer Introduction
3. Activities

Lecture 6: 

1. The Network Layer Recap & Quiz
2. The Link Layer Introduction
3. Activities

Lecture 7: 

1. Online Final Exam
   • Based on lecture material and homework from Lectures 4-6
   • Online exam using Learn@WU
   • Duration 60 minutes
   • 30% of the overall grade
2. The topic of the final lecture will be decided collectively 

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Lab 1 & 2: 

Wireshark and Mininet Labs

• Practical exercises under supervision
• Not Graded

Lab 3:

Wireshark and Mininet Labs

• Practical exercise without guidance
• 20% of Homework Grade

Registration is possible for:

• students participating in the ENGAGE, ECOL, SIGMA co-operation networks;
• incoming ERASMUS students;
• students of the bachelor's degree in economics and social sciences who are taking the business informatics major.

An excellent command of English is essential.

Allocation according to study progress from 40 to 60 course places.

Students who do not get a place in the course must register on the waiting list and attend the first lecture. If new places become available, priority will be given to students who (1) have registered on the waiting list and (2) have attended the first lecture.