CS402 Computer Communications and Networks

Saylor Academy’s CS402: Computer Communications and Networks is a comprehensive course that delves into the fascinating world of computer networks. Let’s explore the details:

Course Overview:
- Duration: Approximately 42 hours.
- Certificate: Upon completion, you’ll receive a free certificate.
- College Credit Recommendation: This course is recommended for college credit.
- Objective: Understand the hardware, software, and architectural components involved in computer communications within local area networks (LANs).
Course Content:
- Introduction: The internet plays a pivotal role in our lives. We browse the web, check emails, make VoIP phone calls, and engage in video conferences—all made possible by networking computers together. This course aims to provide a clear understanding of how networks, from small in-home LANs to the vast global Internet, are constructed. It enables us to use computers to share information and communicate effectively.
- Layered Approach: The course adopts a top-down approach, starting with fundamental concepts and gradually diving into the intricacies of each layer.
- Key Topics:
  - Unit 1: Basics of computer networks, essential terminology, and the concept of layers.
  - Unit 2: Understanding protocols—rules and conventions for communication between network devices.
  - Unit 3: Application layer protocols (e.g., Domain Name System, email protocols, Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and socket programming for network applications.
  - Unit 4: Transport layer protocols, including Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).
  - Unit 5: Network layer protocols (Internet Protocol, packet routing).
  - Unit 6: Link layer protocols.
  - Unit 7: Voice and video protocols, network security, and cloud computing.
Course Syllabus:
- Begin by reading the course syllabus.
- Click on Unit 1 to explore its introduction and learning outcomes.
- Dive into the learning materials and follow the instructions provided.