course-details-portlet

TTM4200

Computer Networks

Credits 7.5
Level Foundation courses, level I
Course start Spring 2026
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Aggregate score

About

About the course

Course content

The course focuses on computer networking and communication technologies as a continuation of TTM4175 Communication Technology, Introduction. The covered topics include core reference models, services and protocols used in computer networks, including aspects from the physical layer to the application layer. Practical networking aspects are also addressed, namely by deploying, managing and using services and protocols widely used in the Internet (e.g. SSH, SMTP, DNS, HTTPS, among others). Fundamentals of network and communication security are introduced in the context of the other topics.

Learning outcome

A. Knowledge: To have a basic understanding of and to be able to recognise:

  1. the fundamental concepts and principles of OSI and TCP/IP layers;
  2. the Ethernet communication technology;
  3. architectures, switching and routing principles used in computer networks;
  4. networking tools, protocols and services used in computer networks and in Internet services such as DNS, web and email;
  5. networking security principles, tools and protocols used in computer networks.

B. Skills: To be able to:

  1. apply switching and routing in IPv4/IPv6 networks;
  2. set up a simple IPv4/IPv6 network with support for services such as DNS, web and email;
  3. use basic networking tools, protocols and services required to manage a computer network;
  4. apply fundamental networking security principles, tools and protocols used in computer networks;
  5. create basic network applications.

C. General competence: To be able to use the acquired knowledge and skills for:

  1. responsibly and ethically applying basic communication and computer networking principles in a societal context;
  2. collaborating to the development of computer networks, both independently and in teams.

The course teaches the fundamental knowledge, skills and competences behind digital communications and the Internet. For that reason, it indirectly contributes to all UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where digital solutions can benefit from ubiquitous access to a communication platform.

Learning methods and activities

The course uses team-based learning. Lectures and exercises are combined. The intention is to facilitate learning and to provide feedback to students throughout the semester, and enable learning in the context of realistic scenarios through projects.

Throughout the semester, students receive feedback on their level of preparation through Readiness Assurance Tests (RATs), which are multiple-choice tests that are done during class time. Each test introduces the students to a new subset of concepts.

To develop skills and knowledge on higher cognitive levels, students also conduct practical assignments in teams throughout the semester and receive feedback in various ways, including feedback by peers, teaching assistants and the teacher.

Submission of the Readiness Assurance Tests (RATs) and of the practical assignments is compulsory. Attendance to the lab sessions is also compulsory.

Compulsory assignments

  • Attendance to the lab sessions
  • Submission of the Readiness Assurance Tests (RATs) and of the practical assignments

Further on evaluation

Two assessments provide the basis for the final grade in the course, a portfolio and an individual oral final exam that count for 40% and 60% of the final grade, respectively. Both parts must be passed in order to pass the course. The results for each of the parts are given with a letter grade.

The portfolio includes Readiness Assurance Tests (RATs) and practical assignments with deliverables. All parts, incl. the exam, are given and must be answered in English only.

If a student also after the re-sit exam has the final grade F/failed, the student must repeat the entire course. Also in the case a student wants to try to improve their grade, they must repeat both assessments.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Cyber Security and Data Communication (MTKOM)

Course materials

To be announced at the beginning of the term.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
TTM4100 7.5 sp Autumn 2019
IT2203 4.5 sp Autumn 2019
SIE5003 7.5 sp Autumn 2019
TTM4190 5 sp Autumn 2019
MNFIT223 4.5 sp Autumn 2019
MNFIT223 4.5 sp Autumn 2019
IMT2006 6 sp Autumn 2019
TTM4191 6 sp Autumn 2021
IIKT2100 6 sp Autumn 2024
IIKT2105 6 sp Autumn 2024
This course has academic overlap with the courses in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • Telematics
  • Technological subjects

Contact information

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Aggregate score
Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary examination - Spring 2026

Portfolio
Weighting 40/100
Oral examination
Weighting 60/100 Examination aids Code E Duration 30 minutes

Re-sit examination - Summer 2026

Oral examination
Weighting 60/100 Examination aids Code E Duration 30 minutes