16.36包含數位通訊和網路基礎，其中計有基本的資訊理論、取樣及量化、編碼、調變、訊號偵測及有雜訊時的系統效能。數據網路課程包含多重存取、可靠的封包傳輸、路由及網際網路通訊協定。課程講授的觀念是在太空通訊系統的範疇下進行討論，其範圍有﹕飛行器通訊、衛星通訊及外太空通訊。
16.36 covers the fundamentals of digital communications and networking, including the basics of information theory, sampling and quantization, coding, modulation, signal detection and system performance in the presence of noise. The study of data networking includes multiple access, reliable packet transmission, routing and protocols of the internet. The concepts taught in class are discussed in the context of aerospace communication systems: aircraft communications, satellite communications, and deep space communications.
