Along this course, the students will acquire basic knowledge on computer networks in general and Internet in particular, focusing on analyzing specific procedures in the access networks and shared media. In order to achieve this objective, students must acquire a set of knowledge and abilities. Regarding the set of knowledge, at the end of the course the student must: + Knowledge of network computer architectures. + Understand functionalities developed by different actors in a network. + Knowledge of basic access networks architectures commonly used: PSTN, ISDN, ADSL, etc. + Knowledge of the structure of a physical layer standard. + Knowledge of design a structured cabling system. + Study in depth of the link layer techniques, analyzing their performance and usability criteria. + Understanding of shared media techniques for access networks analyzing the performance for different techniques and identifying the best technique for a given scenario. + Understanding of common link layer protocols: HDLC, PPP and SLIP. + Study several techniques used in LAN (Ethernet/IEEE 802.3, WLAN/IEEE 802.11) as well as VLAN concepts. Regarding abilities, it is possible to classify them in two different groups: specific abilities and generic abilities or skills. Regarding specific abilities, at the end of the course, the student will be able to: + Design, connect and interconnect an Ethernet local area network, forming physical and logic networks. + Analyze the performance of several shared media techniques. + Analyze the performance of several communication systems. Regarding generic abilities or skills, during the course we will work on: + The abstract model of layers used in network protocols architecture, which provides a wide view in order to tackle the complex problem of the communications networks. (PO a) + Ability to work as a member of a team in order to develop proposed designs and configurations, balancing the load of work in order to face complex problems. (PO d) + Knowledge about the different network standardization process. (OP j) + Ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering as it applies to the fields of computer hardware and software. (PO a) + Ability to identify, to formulate, and to solve hardware and software problems using engineering principles. (PO e) + Recognition of the need for an ability to engage in lifelong learning, and an ability to independently acquire and apply required information. (PO i) + Knowledge of contemporary issues. (PO j)