Hands-on laboratory experiments with SOHO networking technologies

Traditional computer networking courses are primarily based on lectures and include a few TCP/IP network socket programming assignments. Students may not know how to apply what they have learned in the classroom to solve real‐world problems. This paper presents several interesting laboratory experiments to provide students with hands‐on experiences in low‐cost small office/home office (SOHO) networking technologies, including SOHO Router/Firewall, Wi‐Fi Wireless LAN, HomePlug Powerline Communication, and HomePNA Phoneline Networking. The feedback from students is encouraging. The result of the assessment tests also shows that the hands‐on projects have had a positive impact on student learning and comprehension. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 586–595, 2013