Computer Networks

A.Y. 2025/2026
12
Max ECTS
120
Overall hours
SSD
INF/01
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The course of Computer Networks is the first course on networking and has the main objective of providing the founding concepts of the Internet protocols by analyzing protocols and services at the different layers of the hierarchical architecture
Expected learning outcomes
Students know the founding concepts of a packet switched network, can design and dimension the main network equipments and are able to configure a small local area network
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
THEORY PROGRAM
Basics of Communications and Networks
- Fundamentals of digital communication
- Packet-switched networks
- Concepts of fragmentation and reliability
- Transmission and propagation delays
- Protocols and protocol stack

Physical Layer
- Twisted pair, coaxial cable, and optical fiber

Data Link Layer
- Point-to-point networks and broadcast topologies
- Local Area Network (LAN)
- Ethernet 802.3
- Hub, Bridge, Switch
- VLAN

Network Layer
- IP Protocol
- NAT, ARP, DHCP, ICMP
- Routing protocols: Distance Vector, OSPF, BGP
- QoS and Tunneling
- MPLS

Transport Layer
- Ports and Sockets
- TCP Protocol
- UDP Protocol

Application Layer
- Domain Name System (DNS)
- Email
- HTTP/1.x and HTTP/2 Protocols
- Content Delivery Networks (CDN)

LABORATORY PROGRAM
Physical and Data Link Layers
-Network emulation using Cisco Packet Tracer

Network Layer
- IP addressing, subnetting, netmasking, and VLANs

Transport and Application Layers
- Configuration, management and QoS evaluation of End-to-End applications
Prerequisites for admission
- Computer architecture
- Operating Systems
Teaching methods
Class and laboratory teaching
Teaching Resources
Fred Halsall, "Networking e Internet", Pearson Ed., 2006
Andrew S. Tanenbaum, Nickolas Feamster, David J. Wetherall, "Computer networks" sixth edition, Pearson Ed., 2023 (for some specific topics)
Assessment methods and Criteria
Theory: Written exam with open questions
Laboratory: Laboratory exercises
INF/01 - INFORMATICS - University credits: 12
Laboratories: 48 hours
Lessons: 72 hours
Professor(s)
Reception:
By appointment via email
Office (via Celoria 18, 7th floor, room 7019)
Reception:
Friday 11,30 am - 12,30 am