vcc.ca
CSTP 1202: Data Communication and Networking
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Computer Systems Tech Diploma
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students learn the fundamentals of computer networking, protocols, components, major networking technologies and modern networks, and learn to configure, manage, and troubleshoot modern networks.
The topics include TCP/IP protocol suite, multiplexing/switching techniques, error detection and correction, elementary data link protocols, flow control, routing and congestion control, multiple access protocols, networking and inter-networking devices, LANs and WANs. The basics of Cloud computing and network security will be covered as well.
This course follows the CompTIA Network+ certification syllabus and prepares students for the exam. However, writing the exam is not part of the course.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
CSTP 1120 or equivalent, taken prior to or concurrently.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe computer networks and network media
- Identify major types of network implementations
- Configure the TCP/IP protocol in network settings
- Identify major TCP/IP services in computer networks
- Describe WAN infrastructures and their applications
- Identify components of remote networking
- Identify methods of network management
- Identify components of Cloud computing and virtualization
- Describe the basics of computer security
- Describe methods of preventing security breaches
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 25
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 35
Total Hours: 60
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 35
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies include classroom lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, computer labs and hands-on practical work.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
20 |
|
|
Lab Work |
20 |
|
|
Midterm Exam |
20 |
|
|
Final Exam |
25 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
15 |
|
Course topics
- Computer networks and media
- Network implementations
- TCP/IP protocol and services
- IP addressing and port numbers
- Domain name systems
- WAN infrastructures
- Remote networking
- Network management and troubleshooting
- Network security
- Windows firewalls
- Linux networking
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.