Networking and Security (A/T/V)

Course information

Networking and Security focuses on network technologies and architecture, and the devices, media and services and operations in different types of networks.

The rise of mobile computing and ubiquitous internet access has led to modern computing systems and platforms that are designed for access anywhere, anytime. These platforms all rely on networks that are not only stable and reliable but interconnected and increasingly distributed. Understanding networks and the security implications of data transmission through networks is a critical part of developing digital solutions for a wide audience.

Students learn how networks facilitate device to device communication through an exploration of core networking technologies and their configuration. This could include the study of embedded systems (Internet of Things devices) alongside core networking devices such as routers and switches and the software that manages them.

The security of data and the implications of networked systems for data privacy are considered from many perspectives, including the technical implementation of secure protocols and the ethical challenges associated with providing encrypted communications and storage for all users.

Roles in industry where knowledge of networking is valued vary from system and network administrators through to site reliability engineers and cloud infrastructure developers that maintain complicated, distributed software and networks.

Course information

Networking and Security focuses on network technologies and architecture, and the devices, media and services and operations in different types of networks.

The rise of mobile computing and ubiquitous internet access has led to modern computing systems and platforms that are designed for access anywhere, anytime. These platforms all rely on networks that are not only stable and reliable but interconnected and increasingly distributed. Understanding networks and the security implications of data transmission through networks is a critical part of developing digital solutions for a wide audience.

Students learn how networks facilitate device to device communication through an exploration of core networking technologies and their configuration. This could include the study of embedded systems (Internet of Things devices) alongside core networking devices such as routers and switches and the software that manages them.

The security of data and the implications of networked systems for data privacy are considered from many perspectives, including the technical implementation of secure protocols and the ethical challenges associated with providing encrypted communications and storage for all users.

Roles in industry where knowledge of networking is valued vary from system and network administrators through to site reliability engineers and cloud infrastructure developers that maintain complicated, distributed software and networks.

Course pattern

Available as a Minor or Major, however, it may be combined with Robotics and Mechatronics or Digital Technologies for a Major-Minor, or Double Major in Information Technology.

Suggested Minor course

Suggested Major course

Unit descriptions

Networking and Cyber Security 

In this unit, students learn about networking application and host based technologies and cyber security. They explore network traffic, flow, access, use, limitations, and vulnerabilities. The unit has a focus on developing skills including problem solving, communication, time management and teamwork. Students create design solutions for network traffic scenarios and application.

Network Administration and Security

In this unit, students learn designing and administering networks, applications and hosts. They explore the process of designing a network, administering a network, securing a network and mitigating network vulnerabilities. This unit focuses on combining networking equipment and end devices. Students create design solutions for network set up and administration.

Designing & Securing Enterprise Networks

In this unit, students learn to scale network and application design. They explore features of complex networks and applications and the technologies used to improve operations and functions. This unit has a focus on developing skills in problem solving and applying efficiencies to monitor and maintain network infrastructure.

Students create large scale network infrastructure.

Cloud and Distributed Systems

In this unit, students learn about cloud and distributed systems. They explore distributed technologies, location of corporate data, security and implications for users and service providers. Students create simulated environments to setup and develop cloud and distributed system architectures.

Computer Requirements

Please note that the Chrome Operating System used on Chromebooks is not compatible with the specialist software used in Information Technology. It is expected that students studying Information Technology have a computer that meets the following specifications:

* This cannot be an on-chip GPU for Windows PCs as the Game development programs are graphic intensive. M1/2 Macbook Pros can work, but will need a minimum of 16 GB of ram as it is shared between the GPU and CPU.