Course syllabus for Computer communication

Computer networks are becoming an inherent and increasingly important part of many technical areas today. This course focuses on the parts of data communication that practicing engineers normally will encounter in their daily work. It is a basic course which offers an introductory presentation of data communication and computer networks.

01. have basic knowledge and skills in the field of data communications and computer networks.

02. have good knowledge of reference models for computer communication in terms of function, services and protocols.

03. be able to apply knowledge of reference models to gain understanding on the construction and use of various computer networks and protocols.

04. have good knowledge of the TCP/IP model and the Internet's structure and architecture.

05. have good knowledge of the principles, protocols and standards that TCP/IP-based networks and their applications are based on.

06. be able to prepare a basic IP addressing plan for an intranet.

07. have a good understanding of the Internet's limitations with respect to service warranties in connection with newly developed services.

08. explain how different types of computer networks are constructed relative to the transmission medium's characteristics, bandwidth requirements, coding methods and functions for error and flow control.

09. be able to seek deeper knowledge of the individual standards and protocols in the data communication field.

10. be able to implement a simple application-layer protocol starting from its specification and applying communication through sockets.

11. have basic practical skills in the configuration of local networks.

In the study of protocols, we start with application level protocols enabling students to start with more familiar paradigms in the context of applications that we use regularly. Moving to lower layers later on, we have the possibility to gradually uncover network services, their functionality and the ease/difficulty for achieving them. Topics covered include: networking applications, content distribution, HTTP, SMTP, TCP, UDP, performance and congestion analysis, IP, switching, routing, mobile IP, local area networks, multiple access protocols (IEEE 802.X and others), wireless networks, bridges, physical media, error-detection and correction, and network security.

Traditional lectures will be given where basic theory and important concepts are presented in order to complement and support the course textbook. Lectures are given every week. As a complement to the lectures, consultation sessions will be offered with the aid of teacher assistant. A selection of optional homework problems are given in order to provide additional insight into the course material as well as to demonstrate the level of understanding required for solving homework assignments. 

The course includes a compulsory component which consists of two lab assignments (involving some programming and lab work with networking equipment) and a written home assignment.  Practical laborations are included to help students understand protocols and to practically use network equipment.

James F. Kurose and Keith W. Ross, "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach", 7th Edition (8th Edition if available), Pearson Education.

To pass the whole course, all the assignments and the written exam must be passed. The final grade with scale U/3-5 is based on exam results.