Wide Area Networks

The knowledge covered in the following course is considered recommended:

• Introduction to Data Networks

• Switching

• Routing

Theoretical classes:

Presentation and participatory discussion of the topics covered with a focus on critical thinking about the most relevant aspects of current technological responses.
Practical classes:

Analysis of implementation scenarios for the various technologies covered. Use of simulation solution. Parameterization, in a laboratory environment, with physical equipment, of learning scenarios

This course unit is designed to provide the necessary skills in WAN technologies, in relation to physical and link layers of the OSI model. Students should be able to (i) understand standards in the physical wiring, (ii) describe X.25, RDIS and Frame-Relay technologies, (iii) configure HDLC and PPP protocols, (iv) apply NAT/PAT concepts, (v) use virtual local area networks (VLAN), (vi) understand MPLS mechanism, (vii) use multiple frame tagging.

1. Standards and wiring
2. RDIS, X.25 and Frame Relay
3. HDLC and PPP
4. NAT/PAT
5. MPLS
6. Q?in?Q (IEEE 802.1ad)

General Considerations:

• All students must ensure that their mailbox is operational, is read daily, and has enough space to receive regular mail in order to maintain a reliable communication channel with the regent. Deadlines and other elements communicated by email and not met may result in failure of the subject.
• The assessment methodology called M1 by the School will be adopted in this Curricular Unit (UC). As explained in an email from the Vice-President of ISEC (2021/11/19; 18:07), in this methodology the assessment is carried out by types of continuous and/or periodic assessment, ends before the exam period, with no subsequent assessment/exam moment.
• Students who enjoy a special status, duly recognized by Academic Services, which prevents them from attending classes regularly and formally justified, must communicate the fact in a duly documented manner by email to the regent as quickly as possible so that alternative assessment times can be scheduled, compatible with impediments that the student's status justifies. It is also the responsibility of these students to follow the discipline from the beginning of the semester and maintain regular contact by email and via Nônio with the regent.
• Students who attended the previous edition without passing but attended the minimum number of classes required (75% or more of classes, including justified absences) must proceed as described above for students who are under a special status that prevents them from regularly attending the curricular unit.
• Any student unable to attend an assessment on time with a justification validated by the course coordinator must communicate the fact to the course director by email as soon as possible so that an alternative assessment date can be found.

Continuous Assessment Component:

It will include carrying out small tests during contact periods, with the date announced. This component is mandatory and represents 60% of the overall final assessment.
Periodic Assessment Component:

The Periodic Assessment will consist of a mandatory and phased project. This component consists of a piece of work weighing 40% of the final grade, carried out in groups of up to two members. The work will be based on the elaboration of a wide area network scenario, with implementation of the various protocols and technologies addressed.

NAO