dgt_net02 – The Application Layer

Module Title: dgt_net02 – The Application Layer

Overview:
The “dgt_net02 – The Application Layer” module is an in-depth exploration of the uppermost layer in the OSI and TCP/IP models, focusing on network protocols, services, and applications that facilitate end-user interactions. This module is designed for students who have a foundational understanding of networking concepts and wish to delve deeper into how data exchange occurs at the application level.

module Objectives:
– To understand the role and functions of the Application Layer in networking models.
– To explore key protocols used at the Application Layer, including HTTP, FTP, SMTP, DNS, and more.
– To analyze the interaction between different layers of the OSI model with a focus on applications that rely on this layer for communication.
– To develop skills to design, implement, and troubleshoot application-level network services.

module Content:

  1. Introduction to the Application Layer
  2. Overview of the OSI Model and TCP/IP Stack
  3. Functions and responsibilities of the Application Layer

  4. Key Protocols and Services

  5. HyperText Transfer Protocol HTTP and HTTPS
  6. File Transfer Protocol FTP and its variants SFTP, FTPS
  7. Simple Mail Transfer Protocol SMTP for email communication
  8. Domain Name System DNS architecture and operations
  9. Network Time Protocol NTP for clock synchronization

  10. Application Layer Security

  11. Understanding vulnerabilities at the Application Layer
  12. Introduction to encryption and authentication mechanisms
  13. Case studies on common application-layer attacks e.g., DDoS, phishing

  14. Developing Application-Level Services

  15. Basics of API development and RESTful services
  16. Design principles for scalable and secure applications

  17. Advanced Topics in the Application Layer

  18. Web technologies: WebSockets, AJAX, and real-time data streaming
  19. Cloud-based application architectures
  20. IoT and application layer considerations

  21. Troubleshooting and Optimization

  22. Tools and techniques for monitoring application-layer traffic
  23. Best practices for optimizing performance and reliability

Learning Outcomes:
– Gain comprehensive knowledge of the Application Layers role in network architecture.
– Develop proficiency in using, configuring, and troubleshooting key application layer protocols.
– Enhance problem-solving skills related to security and efficiency at the application level.
– Prepare for advanced studies or professional roles focusing on application development and networking.

Prerequisites:
A basic understanding of computer networks up to the Transport Layer is recommended. Familiarity with programming concepts will be beneficial but not mandatory.

Assessment Methods:
– Quizzes and assignments to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
– Practical labs for hands-on experience in configuring and troubleshooting application layer protocols.
– A final project that involves designing a simple networked application or optimizing an existing one.

Enroll in “dgt_net02 – Application Layer” today, and take the next step towards mastering networking at the level where humans and computers communicate!
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