Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student shall be able to - Explain the hierarchical, layered structure of a typical network architecture - Discuss the differences between circuit switching and packet switching along with the advantages and disadvantages of each - Explain the different roles and responsibilities of clients and servers for a range of possible applications - Illustrate how a packet is routed over the Internet - Explain how a network can detect and correct transmission errors

Content

Taking into account the wide variety of access networks, wired (PSTN/ADSL, CATV, PowerLine), cordless (WiFi/WiMax), cellular (GSM/GPRS/UMTS) and satellite-based, this lecture introduces a layered model of communication networks and apply it to the study of basic concepts of data transmission, e.g. addressing, routing, reliability, interactivity, etc.

Table of contents

- Basic principles - 5-layer model and connections to the 7-layer OSI model - Application layer : web browsing (HTTP), file transfer (FTP), e-mail (SMTP), domain name server (DNS), Peer-to-Peer (P2P) - Transport layer : TCP and UDP protocols - Network layer : Internet Protocol versions 4 and 6, routing, multicast - MAC layer: Ethernet, wireless networks (WiFi), ATM - Physical layer : elementary notions

Teaching methods

- Class lectures with life demonstrations, based on a reference book - Q/A mailing list

Assessment method

Written exam on exercises

Sources, references and any support material

James F. Kurose and Keith W. Ross, "Computer Networking - A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet (5th Edition)", Addison Wesley, juin 2009, ISBN-13 978-0-13-136548-3

Language of instruction

French