Content
This lecture is an attempt to capture current developments in Internet and networking research. It does not follow a standard agenda, it is heavily focused on research and goes over various, not necessarily well connected topics that are currently attracting a lot of attention in research and industrial development. There is no standard textbook; we shall pick and choose from recent publications. Topics will include:
- Architectures of routers and switches: From conventional to programmable switches
- Circuit-switched networking like optical networking: Technology, optimization aspects
- Congestion control beyond TCP
- Data center networking
- Network softwarization, e.g., Software-Defined Networking and Network Function Virtualization
Given that this is highly research-focussed and tries to be up-to-date, this lecture is going to be a learning experience for everybody involved, in particular, the lecturer himself! Do not expect ultimate answers, rather expect questions. Also, to profit most from this lecture, it makes a lot of sense to read some of the research papers yourself.
Format
This class is typical lecture + homework assignment class. Most probably, exams will happen as oral exams (depending on number of participants). The class is (likely) taught in English, but we can discuss that at the start of the semester (material will definitely be in English).
As of January 2022, the CoVid-19 situation looks like in-person classes might be possible in the summer term; this is clearly the prefered choice. Lecture recordings will be made available as far as technically viable. But given the uncertaintainties around CoVid-19, we might run the class online, e.g., (1) as a so-called "flipped classroom", with lectures as pre-recorded videos plus Question-and-Answer sessions or (2) as interactive online class. Q&A might take place online or in person on campus, depending on the pandemic situation. We will discuss that in class and will flexibly adapt to the current situation.
All material will be provided via Moodle. Please register for this course inMoodle!
Prerequisites
You really should have some background in computer networks in general. If you are unsure, please talk to Holger Karl and we can see whether the class still makes sense for you. There is also a self-assessment test to give you an idea about typical content that we assume you to at least have heard of.
Exams
- There will be individual oral exams; by appointment.
Module
Please check official web page for module relationship.
