Computer Communication Networks MSc

Advanced Digital Communications

The aim of this module is to introduce students to more advanced topics in digital communication systems and to provide students with up-to-date knowledge of the techniques used in digital communication systems including more advanced topics in digital wireless communication systems. This module covers channel modelling, coding, digital transmission through wireless channels, advanced error control techniques, spread spectrum, multi-carrier digital transmission (OFDM and MIMO), and their applications in wireless and cellular mobile communication systems.

Computer Networks

Introduces the terminology and concepts of system networks, using the OSI network model as the reference framework. Aims to produce an understanding of network structures and techniques, covering layered network architectures, protocols, process interconnection, system network modelling, routing and software implementation at various network layers. The reference framework is compared with common networks such as TCP/IP, IPX and NETBIOS and the technologies for bearer transmission services and related issues, including ISDN, SDH, ATM, frame relay, email, X400 and X500 are considered.

Communication Networks Security

This module introduces the fundamental theory that enables what is achievable through the use of security engineering and presents the practical techniques and algorithms that are currently important for the efficient and secure use of distributed/Grid computing systems. Topics include Introduction to Security Engineering, Classical Cryptography (Monoalphabetic and Polyalphabetic Ciphers, Transposition, Substitution, Linear Transformation), Computational Fundamentals of Cryptosystems (Computational Complexity and Intractability, Modular Arithmetic and Elementary Number Theory), Modern Symmetric Key Cryptography (Feistel Ciphers, DES, Triple-DES and AES), Public Key Cryptography (The Diffie-Hellman Key Exchange Algorithm, Public Key Infrastructures, X.509 Certificates, PK Systems such as RSA and Elliptic Curves), Multilevel Security (the Bell-LaPadula Security Policy Model, the Biba Model, the NRL Pump), Multilateral Security (Compartmentation and the Lattice Model, the Chinese Wall, the BMA Model), Protecting eCommerce Systems.

Network Design and Management

Introduces different network design methodologies and principles. Covers the needs to identify and resolve design issues with regards to networks and protocols. Provides network strategies and regulation policies. Considers how to design and manage networks of different types with respect to performance and requirements.

Intelligent Systems

Introduces the use of Java object-oriented programming language for distributing peer to peer program design. Includes the use of databases (JDBC, SQL, XML/XQL), client/server systems, servlets and RMI.

Radio and Optical Communication Systems

Covers modern data transmission technologies starting from the component level and building up to complete system design, operation and management. Considers current and planned optical, satellite and mobile networks and services, as well as their integration into global systems.

Project Control and Management

Introduces a range of formal methods and skills necessary to equip the student to function effectively at the higher levels of project management. Covers the need for the development of project management skills in achieving practical business objectives.

Research Methods and Professional Development

The aim of this module is to instil principles of good research practice and enable students to acquire skills to conduct scientifically-robust research with due consideration of engineering quality issues and environmental and health and safety risks:

• To develop understanding of how research and development drives innovation in a business context and the mechanisms to protect intellectual property.
• To develop student’s ability to plan their own research and learning activities, including for a piece of advanced research (the dissertation

Project and Dissertation

The dissertation is a stimulating and challenging part of the MSc programme. It provides the opportunity to apply the knowledge learnt in the taught part of the course and to specialise in one aspect, developing the student's deep understanding and expertise in a Data Communications related area of their choice. Students may carry out their project wholly within the University, but industrial-based projects are encouraged.

For company-sponsored students, projects should be related to the company's present and future enterprise. Industrial projects often lead to recruitment of the student by the collaborative company, recent examples of which include BT, Siemens, 3Com, Worldcom, Nortel and Orange.

Read more about the structure of postgraduate degrees at Brunel and what you will learn on the course.