Module Title: DGT_NET02 – The Data Link Layer
Overview:
dgt_net02 – The Data Link Layer is an advanced-level module covering the theory and practice of the Data Link Layer in computer networking. This layer sits between the physical transmission of data and its logical distribution across networks, and is responsible for communication between adjacent nodes and for error management.
The theory here is studied properly, frame by frame. In the labs you then work only in natural language: you ask the machine to capture traffic on a link, configure a VLAN or inspect a switch’s MAC table, and your task is to read the frames, headers and configurations it shows you, explain them using what you learned, and catch it when it gets a field, a tag or an address wrong.
Module Objectives:
– To understand the functions and services provided by the Data Link Layer.
– To explore the protocols and mechanisms operating at this layer, including Ethernet, PPP, and Frame Relay.
– To analyze how error detection and correction are implemented to ensure data integrity.
– To examine the flow control methods used to manage data transmission between devices.
– To be able to direct a machine through Data Link Layer tasks in natural language and verify its results.
Key Topics:
1. Introduction to the Data Link Layer:
– OSI Model Context
– Overview of responsibilities and services
- Data Framing Techniques:
- Structure of frames in different protocols
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Frame types: Ethernet, Token Ring, PPP
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Error Detection and Correction:
- Mechanisms like Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)
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Forward Error Correction (FEC) methods
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Flow Control:
- Techniques such as Stop-and-Wait, Sliding Window
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Comparing hardware vs. software flow control
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Addressing and Access Methods:
- MAC addressing
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CSMA/CD, Token Passing, and other access protocols
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Switching Technologies:
- Overview of bridging and switching
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VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks)
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Advanced Data Link Layer Protocols:
- In-depth study of Ethernet, PPP, HDLC
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Frame Relay vs. MPLS
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Security Considerations:
- Security challenges at the Data Link Layer
- Safeguards and best practices, and how to verify that the machine has applied them
Prerequisites:
– Fundamental understanding of computer networks, e.g. DGT_NET01 – Introduction to Networking
– Basic knowledge of the OSI Model and Network Architecture
Learning Methods:
– Interactive Lectures
– Natural-language Laboratory Exercises (instructing the machine, then reviewing captures and configurations)
– Group Projects and Case Studies
– Industry Guest Speakers
Assessment:
Students will be evaluated through a combination of quizzes, practical assignments carried out in natural language, group projects, and a final examination. In the practical assignments, what counts is the precision of the instructions and the ability to explain and verify what the machine produced. Participation in laboratory sessions is mandatory.
Target Audience:
This module is intended for students pursuing degrees in computer science or information technology with a focus on networking. It is also beneficial for IT professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in network architecture and protocol implementation.
By the end of DGT_NET02, participants will have both the theoretical knowledge and the practical judgement needed to design, implement and troubleshoot Data Link Layer protocols in diverse network environments, guiding a machine through the work and verifying every result.
The students can push their exercises to the Academy DevOps & SRE Git project. For this module, create a folder with your username as its name in the following subfolder: https://github.com/Garanti-Del-Talento/gdt_academy