FIT2165 Computer networks
Faculty of Information Technology
FIT2165 Computer networks is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Information Technology, offered in 2026 in Semester 1 at Clayton. It needs FIT1047.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2026
- Semester 1
- Clayton
- Assessment
- No exam
- 3 tasks
- Workload
- 144 hours
- per semester
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
Reviews
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Requisites
Before FIT2165
Prohibitions
You can't enrol if you have passed any of these.
Prerequisites
Pass these before you enrol.
After FIT2165
No unit lists FIT2165 as a prerequisite in the 2026 handbook.
Equivalent units
The same content under another code. Only one of them counts.
Overview
The unit introduces computer networks with an explicit software and system-centric focus. It provides foundation skills in data communications, networks, and associated software interfaces, and introduces basic principles in network design, configuration, management and security.
Offerings in 2026
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Clayton | On campus |
Assessment
- Problem Solving AssessmentsQuiz / Test60%
- Applied TasksExercise20%
- Laboratory Practical TasksDemonstration20%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Explain the role and structure of standardised network architectures and models, including OSI and TCP/IP, in supporting open and interoperable communication systems.
- 2
Apply foundational concepts from the physical, data-link, and network layers, such as modulation, addressing, MAC protocols, routing, and packet-switching to configure and support data communication in cabled and wireless networks.
- 3
Analyse the behaviour and performance of network protocols and technologies, including LAN/WAN architectures, queueing mechanisms, and access strategies like CSMA/CD and ALOHA.
- 4
Design end-to-end networked solutions that address organisational needs through effective integration of layered services, system-level architecture, and communication models.
- 5
Evaluate network designs and implementations in terms of reliability, scalability, testability, and suitability across different environments and use cases.
Workload and teaching
- Laboratories12 hours
- Applied sessions12 hours
- Workshops24 hours
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled online and face to face learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated reading and preparation for scheduled teaching activities.
Where it fits
FIT2165 is part of 1 area of study in the 2026 handbook.
Contacts
- Chief Examiners
- Dr Charith Kohomban Wickrama Jayasekara
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for FIT2165?
You need FIT1047 before you enrol.
When is FIT2165 offered?
In 2026, FIT2165 runs in Semester 1 at Clayton.
How much work is FIT2165?
The handbook expects about 144 hours of study across the semester. No students have rated its difficulty yet.
Does FIT2165 have an exam?
No. FIT2165 has 3 assessment tasks and no exam.
Which majors and minors include FIT2165?
FIT2165 is part of Applied cybersecurity.