Computer Network

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, architectures, and protocols that form the foundation of modern computer networks. Students will explore the layered Internet protocol stack, from physical transmission to application services, covering key topics such as LAN technologies (Ethernet, Wi-Fi), network layer addressing (IPv4, subnetting, routing), reliable transport (TCP), and critical application protocols (DNS, HTTP). Through a combination of theoretical concepts and practical simulation exercises, students will learn to analyze network performance, design network addressing schemes, and understand the functions of core networking devices like routers and switches.

No Certificate / Course on Audit Track

About Course

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to modern computer networks, covering core principles, architectures, and protocols. Students will explore the Internet protocol stack, including LAN technologies, network addressing, transport mechanisms, and key application protocols. Through theory and practical simulations, learners will develop the skills to analyze network performance, design addressing schemes, and understand the functions of routers and switches.

Authorship and Attribution

This course has been curated by Riphah International University faculty and staff using publicly available third-party content and Open Educational Resources (OER) for self-paced learning. Learners will engage with curated open-access materials to achieve the course learning outcomes. All third-party content is used under open-access or fair-use policies, while any original materials are developed specifically for this learning experience.

Source and Credits:

Instructor: Neso Academy
Provider: YouTube (@khanacademy)
License: Standard YouTube license

What You'll Learn

On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

Describe the key terminologies and technologies of computer networks
Explain the services and functions provided by each layer in the Internet protocol stack
Identify various internetworking devices and protocols, and their functions in a network
Analyze working and performance of key technologies, algorithms and protocols
Build Computer Network on various Topologies

Prerequisites

Learners are expected to have a basic understanding of:

To be successful in this computer networks course, learners should have a basic understanding of fundamental concepts such as binary math and basic operating system functions. Prior knowledge of how computers communicate on a basic level (like using the internet) is assumed, but detailed networking knowledge is not required.

Who Can Take This Course?

This course is designed for:

This course is designed for students who want to build a strong foundation in modern networking and communication technologies. It is especially suitable for learners interested in computer science, IT infrastructure, software development, cybersecurity, and cloud architecture, where understanding how data moves across systems is essential.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction & Network Fundamentals

Introduction & Basic Characteristics

Introduction to Computer Networks (Video)

Basic Characteristics (Video)

Network Protocols & Components

Network Protocols & Communications (Part 1) (Video)

Network Protocols & Communications (Part 2) (Video)

Components of a Computer Network (Video)

Network Classification & Topology

Classification of Computer Networks (Video)

Network Topology (Video)

Network Topology (Solved Questions) (Video)

Network Addressing Basics

Basics of IP Addressing (Video)

Basics of MAC Addressing (Video)

Basics of Port Addressing (Video)

Switching & Introduction to Layering

Switching & Introduction to Layering (Video)

Layering in Computer Networks (Video)

Module 2: Network Models & Architecture

The OSI Reference Model

The OSI Reference Model (Part 1) (Video)

The OSI Reference Model (Part 2) (Video)

The OSI Reference Model (Part 3) (Video)

The OSI Reference Model (Part 4) (Video)

The TCP/IP Protocol Suite

TCP/IP Protocol Suite (Video)

Module 3: Network Devices & Physical Layer

Networking Devices – Theory

Basics of Router (Video)

Basics of Bridge (Video)

Network Devices (Video)

Network Devices (Solved Questions) (Video)

Hands-On with Cisco Packet Tracer

Basic Networking Commands (Video)

Basics of Cisco Packet Tracer (Part 1) (Video)

Basics of Cisco Packet Tracer (Part 2) Hub (Video)

Basics of Cisco Packet Tracer (Part 3) Switch (Video)

Basics of Cisco Packet Tracer (Part 4) Router (Video)

Basics of Cisco Packet Tracer (Part 5) Repeater (Video)

Physical Layer & Media

Physical Layer and Media (Part 1) (Video)

Physical Layer and Media (Part 2) (Video)

Physical Layer and Media (Part 3) (Video)

Line Configuration (Video)

Skills You Will Gain

Core Network Concepts Network Protocol Understanding LAN & Topology Knowledge IP & MAC Addressing Switching & Layering Skills OSI & TCP/IP Models Router & Device Familiarity Cisco Packet Tracer Practice

Course Information

Duration

Approximately 5 Hour

Course Information

Category: Curated Courses
Type: Self-paced
Start Date: Feb 16, 2026
End Date: Feb 16, 2027
Duration: 53 Weeks

Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Learning Mode

Fully Online (Asynchronous)

Learning Type

Self Paced

Language

Both English & Urdu

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