Key facts
UNE unit code: COSC340
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- UNE Sydney Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Computer networking is a key component of modern information systems. Secure and efficient implementation of distributed applications on server, mobile and desktop systems is vital to ensure effective use of available resources.
Introducing you to the foundations of computer networks and network security, you will explore the protocols, techniques and standards used globally within networked systems.
Covering the technological breadth of the ‘Open System Interconnection’ (OSI) model, topics include principles of reliable data transfer, routing algorithms, common networking protocols, security and network programming.
The unit provides a solid understanding of concepts for secure access and transfer of information across insecure channels, including symmetric encryption, public key cryptography and its modes of operation.
You will also develop distributed applications, implementing existing application layer protocols and building new protocols to hone skills for solving complex problems.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, UNE Sydney Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
COSC340 requires a knowledge of and programming experience with a high-level language. Experience with the use of the Linux/UNIX operating system is highly recommended.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- describe the functions of computer systems and devices in computer networks, and understand the security threats relevant to the transfer of information across communication systems;
- describe, analyse and compare a range of transport, network, data-link and physical layer protocols/algorithms in terms of their features, purpose and performance;
- develop distributed applications that implement both established protocols (based upon existing documented standards) and derived protocols developed for specific purposes;
- analyse and interpret mechanisms used for secure communication and develop distributed applications that allow for the secure transfer of information; and
- describe and analyse the various administrative and social aspects of specific communication technologies, security threats, wireless/mobile computing platforms.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this component in order to pass the unit. |
| Programming Task 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Programming assignment. |
| Programming Task 2 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Programming assignment. |
| Quizzes | Yes | 10% | All offerings | 5 quizzes at 2% |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach
ISBN: 9780128182000
Larry Peterson and Bruce Davie , Morgan Kaufman 6th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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