CS 480 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER NETWORKS
(Spring 2002 Course Description)

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OVERVIEW: An introduction to computer networks, primarily focused on the Internet. The course starts with an overview of computer networks, introducing students to the Internet, protocols, edge and core networks, access networks and physical media. The course then focuses on the application, transport, network, and link layers of the Internet. Different aspects of multimedia networking are covered at the end of the course.

• Application layer topics are: principles of application layer protocols, the world wide web and HTTP, file transfer and FTP, e-mail protocols, directory services and DNS, socket programming.
• Transport layer topics are: transport layer services and principles, multiplexing and de-multiplexing applications, UDP, principles of reliable data transfer, TCP, principles of congestion control, TCP congestion control.
• Network layer topics are: network service models, routing principles, hierarchical routing, internet protocol, routing in the internet, routers, IPv6, multicast routing.
• Link layer topics are: data link layer services, error detection and correction techniques, multiple access protocols and LANs, LAN addresses and ARP, Ethernet, hubs, bridges, switches, IEEE 802.11 LANs, PPP.
• Multimedia networking topics are: Multimedia networking applications, audio and video streaming, issues with best-effort service, RTP, techniques for improving best effort, scheduling and policing, integrated services, RSVP and differentiated services.

Course material, class discussions and problem solving assignments are intended to help students develop their ability to analyze the capabilities and performance of different aspects computer networks. Programming assignments will expose students to network programming.

INSTRUCTOR: Nabil Hinnawi ( nhinnawi@cs.umb.edu)

PREREQUISITES: Operating systems; Programming experience in Java and C; High school mathematics.

TEXTBOOK: James F. Kurose, Keith W Ross: Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet, First Edition, Addison-Wesley, 2000. ISBN 0-201-47711-4.

Note: Purchasing a hard copy of the book is recommended as a future reference. However, the entire book is also online, and students who do not want to purchase a hard copy can purchase a six-month subscription to the online version using a credit card for $25.00. To purchase an online subscription go to: http://occawlonline.pearsoned.com/sms_files/kurose-ross1/login.html

SYLLABUS: go to http://www.cs.umb.edu/~nhinnawi/cs480/syllabus/index.html

GRADING:

• HW assignments (30%)
• Programming assignments (25%)
• Class participation (15%)
• Mid-term (15%)
• Final (15%)

GUIDELINES:

• Read the syllabus carefully (it describes what you need to do to prepare for each class).
• Study assigned reading material before you come to class (including the first class).
• Actively participate in class discussions.
• Always be prepared to present your answers in class to assigned review questions and problems.
• Attend all classes, unless you have an emergency.
• Submit your HW and programming assignments on time.
• Take exams on time.