What will I learn on this module?
This module aims to provide experience in the practical use and application of an operating system in a network environment. You will learn to design and implement essential network services required for a commercial organisation within different operating systems, and learn about basic techniques such as processes management, memory management, and inter-process communications to support the understanding of network service implementation.
‘Operating Systems’ will prepare you for later modules such as Computing Group Project and Enterprise Networks and Security, as well as for a placement in your third year. Employers are looking for skilled network engineers who can work as individuals and as members of a team in analysing computer networking problems and applying effective solutions with the knowledge of operating systems.
During ‘Operating Systems’ you will work through a series of exercises, implement network services and apply them to business needs with a theoretical underpinning, make use of Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs and digital security lab. You will also critically engage with research outputs as part of your research-rich learning. The main element in assessment (100%) will be a final assignment that will bring together all your new skills and techniques.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, workshops, and independent learning. The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to tackle a series of guided exercises. You will work on these during workshops and hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s CIS building computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by lecturers during the timetabled sessions when you will receive feedback on your work. The University’s eLearning Portal offers remote access to all lecture and seminar materials to reinforce your learning. In addition, the university library offers support for all students through providing electronic resources.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Understand the principles underlying
Operating systems in a network environment and use appropriate terminology in explaining the functions of an operating system;
ML02 - Select appropriate features of an operating system for computer network implementation.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML03 - Design and develop a computer network application using standard operating systems
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML04 – Effectively formulate responses to well defined problems in both written and oral form.
How will I be assessed?
The main element of summative assessment (100%) will be a single coursework assignment that brings together all your new skills and techniques. The assessment includes two parts: practical lab (50%) and Report (50%). You will be required to develop and demonstrate a computer network application within selected operating systems.
You are also required to write a report (2000 words), demonstrating your critical understanding of the given tasks and of fundamental principles and concepts. You will receive both informative and confirmatory feedback on your assessments. This assessment addresses all Module Learning Outcomes.
On an on-going basis you will also receive formative feedback on exercises you are required to complete. Formative assessment comprises a variety of theoretical and practical exercises, with opportunities for discussion with tutors and colleagues. This formative assessment addresses Module Learning Outcomes – ML01 – ML03 – ML04.
Pre-requisite(s)
NA
Co-requisite(s)
NA
Module abstract
This module introduces you to the theory and practice behind computer networks and operating systems, which are fundamental services for Internet applications from video streaming, to online gaming, to e-commerce. The module will help you understand the basic ideas of networks and operating systems including socket programming, process management, deadlock detection, prevention, and recovery. You will get to know the emerging challenges in industry and understand the latest research insights. You will enhance your technical skills through hands-on practices in well-equipped computing laboratories. Your learning progress will be assessed through workshops and a single coursework assignment in which you will build a substantial project and demonstrate your theoretical and practical knowledge in a report. This module will present you with a new angle to look at computing systems, secure your position on the stage of Internet and boost chances of success when starting a new career or a business.
Course info
UCAS Code G417
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or September 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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