Introduction to Networks and Protocols

Catalog description

This is an introductory course on packet networks and associated protocols, with a particular emphasis on IP-based networks such as the Internet. The course introduces design and implementation choices that underlie the development of modern networks, and emphasizes basic analytical understanding of the concepts. Topics are covered in a mostly "top down" approach starting with web HTTP protocol followed by transport layer protocols such as TCP and UDP. Congestion control of TCP is extensively covered. Network layer solutions, including IP addressing and routing are covered next, before exploring link layer solutions including multiple access strategies, local area networks (Ethernet and 802.11). The objectives of the course include basic understanding of the network protocol stack and hands-on experience analyzing protocol behavior using wireshark.