Taught by Mr. Heidler, Introduction to Data Communications and Networking, of just Networking for short, is an introduction to some of the hands on side of the computer world, dealing with the issues of planning, creating, upgrading, and troubleshooting a computer network. Non-Magnet students wishing to take this course need to have completed Algebra II and either the Magnet's Algorithms and Data Structures or the main school's Advanced C++.

Networking introduces students to the technical background and the practical considerations of designing, building, and managing computer networks and network services. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to implement several network technologies based on appropriate hardware and software. Due to the very nature of computer networks, topics can vary greatly from year to year, as certain technologies appear and fade away. Keeping in mind, therefore, that it can change almost overnight, here is the current course outline:

• Networking in the Real World
  • Computer Ethics
  • History of the Internet
  • History of the World Wide Web
  • Current happenings
• Types of Networks
  • Typologies
  • Methods of Electronic Signaling
• Physical Links and Interfaces
  • Service Providers
  • Connecting Media
  • Connecting Hardware
• Protocols
  • OSI Reference Model
  • "Real" Network Operating Systems (NOSs)
• Cabling
  • Design Criteria
  • Installation Techniques
  • Fiber Optics
• Large Area Networks (LANs)
  • Types of LANs
  • Ethernet
• Medium and Large Area Networks (MANs and WANs)
• Internetworking
  • Devices (bridges, routers, hubs, switches, etc.)
  • Routing Protocols
    • Network Software
      • Introduction to unix-style systems (e.g. linux)
      • Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
        • Domain Name Service (DNS)
        • IP Addressing
• Network Programming; includes writing simple client/server prorgams

Students are also required to do a research project and report back to the class about some new aspect of computer networks. Topics tend to include the newest operating systems, protocols, standards, and services of the computer world.