CMPS 4750/6750: Computer Networks - Spring 2020

Course Descrption (Syllabus)

This is a graduate-level course on computer networking. This course covers the core concepts and analytic techniques in the design and analysis of computer networks and network protocols. We will explain both how computer networks work using the Internet as the paradigm and why they work from an optimization and control perspective. Topics to be covered include an overview of the Internet, application layer (HTTP/DNS/P2P), transport layer (TCP/UDP), networking layer (IP), link/physical layer (wired and wireless), and selected topics on network optimization and analysis.

Course Materials

• Textbooks
  • [KR] James Kurose and Keith Ross, Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (7th edition), Pearson, 2016
  • [SY] R. Srikant and Lei Ying, Communication Networks: An Optimization, Control, and Stochastic Networks Perspective, Cambridge University Press, 2014.
• References
• [WP] Jean Walrand and Shyam Parekh, Communication Networks: A Concise Introduction (available for download from any campus associated IP address).
• [FS] Kevin R. Fall and W. Richard Stevens, TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1: The Protocols (2nd Edition), Addison-Wesley Professional, 2011.
• We may also use some material from book chapters available online and papers from journals and conferences. Information on these will be provided on the course webpage.

Homework and Labs  

There will be both written problem assignments and labs (programming assignments). Graduate level students will be given extra questions that require advanced algorithmic/analytic techniques. Specific instructions will be given in each assignment.

Exams

There will be a midterm and a final exam. Both will be closed-book and closed-notes, but you will be allowed to bring a cheat sheet to each exam (one letter page single-sided). The final exam will be comprehensive.

Late Policy

Without prior arrangements, missing an exam, homework assignments, or project results in a grade of zero. Notification after the exam will result in a score of zero. A request for homework/lab extension or a make-up exam must be given to the instructor prior to the exam date (documentation may be required).

Attendance

Students are required to attend all classes unless they are ill or prevented from attending by exceptional circumstances. Students are responsible for notifying instructors about absences that result from serious illnesses, injuries, or critical personal problems.

Grading

• Homework - 25%
• Labs - 20%
• Midterm - 20%
• Final - 25%
• Class participation - 10%

The weighted average will determine your final letter grade as follows:

Schedule (tentative) & Handouts

Honor Code

Students are required to abide by the university Honor Code (full details can be found at https://college.tulane.edu/code-of-academic-conduct). For this class, this means that your milestone submissions must be the work of you (and your group, if applicable) and that you must take care to cite all sources as outlined in each milestone assignment.

Resources for Discrimination, Harassment and Assault

Tulane University recognizes the inherent dignity of all individuals and promotes respect for all people. As such, Tulane is committed to providing an environment free of all forms of discrimination including sexual and gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence like sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and stalking. If you (or someone you know) has experienced or is experiencing these types of behaviors, know that you are not alone. Resources and support are available: you can learn more at titleix.tulane.edu.  Any and all of your communications on these matters will be treated as either “Confidential” or “Private” as explained in the chart below. Please know that if you choose to confide in me I am mandated by the university to report to the Title IX Coordinator, as Tulane and I want to be sure you are connected with all the support the university can offer. You do not need to respond to outreach from the university if you do not want. You can also make a report yourself, including an anonymous report, through the form at tulane.edu/concerns.