Network Performance

This micro-credential introduces students to advanced network performance concepts. The students will be reminded of the OSI and the TCP/IP models and basic network-related protocol aspects. They will be introduced to Quality of Service and Network Performance metrics as well as to Quality of Experience and Quality of Perception as metrics to assess the quality of data delivery. Various novel and existing network protocols at network and transport network layers will be introduced and their performance-related characteristics will be discussed. These protocols will be classified based on the layers of the OSI stack they operate at and include: IPv4, IPv6, TCP, SCTP, DCCP, RTP, RTCP, etc. At application layer, multimedia and gaming applications will be discussed in the context of real-time content delivery, along with other application types. Adaptive and non-adaptive content delivery solutions will be presented along with significant issues such as end-user perceived quality. Modeling and simulation with the goal of assessing network performance will be introduced with focus on the application layer. Java development with focus on performance of transport and application layer network protocols will be performed. Novel performance-related issues in the context of mobility, power consumption and security will be discussed.

Upon successful completion of this micro-credential students will be able to:

•  Demonstrate advanced knowledge of networking in general and network performance in particular.
• Define, compare and analyse network performance metrics, quality of service and quality of experience.
• Present and comparatively assess different performance-aware communications solutions at network, transport and application network layers.
• Analyse, contrast and compare solutions for power saving, mobility and security as well as for future network design and development.
• Design and analyse solutions based on knowledge of modeling, simulations and prototyping.

A Primary Honours degree, Level 8 in Electronic/Electrical/Computer Engineering, Applied Physics, Computer Sciences or other Cognate/Engineering Disciplines. Applications are also invited from diverse educational and/or employment backgrounds, with applications evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 

And also to indicate the required documentation:

• Please provide Academic Transcripts for final year of study where appropriate (English translation)
• All applicants must submit a copy of their passport

There is no availability for a deferred entry onto a micro-credential.

If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.  Please see here.

For further information regarding the HCI learner subsidy eligibility criteria please click here. (https://hea.ie/skills-engagement/hci-pillar-3-micro-credentials-learner-fee-subsidy/).