CS118: Computer Network Fundamentals


Instructor: Lixia Zhang Office hours: Wednesday 3:00 - 5:00pm, or appointment by email

Course Overview

This course covers the core concepts in the design of computer networks and network protocols. The course will begin with an overview of networking concepts (Chapter 1) and then cover Network Application Protocols (Chapter 2) such as web (http) and email (smtp). Of particular interest in Chapter 2 is the Domain Name System (DNS) and the DNS will be the focus of a course project. While the overview and applications provide context and motivation, the core of the course includes transport layer (Chapter 3) challenges such as reliable delivery, congestion control and network layer challenges (Chapter 4) such as routing. Finally, the course will also cover link/physical layer challenges for both wired (Chapter 5) and wireless networks (Chapter 6.1-6.3) and concludes with a look at network security (Chapter 8).

The course requirements will include:

Course Grading

Homework 25%
2 programming Project 25%
Midterm (in class, May 17)20%
Final exam (3:00-6:00PM June 11, 2444BH)30%
TOTAL 100%