The course aims to describe architectures and technologies used in the latest generation of the Internet network. Students will have the opportunity to delve into the motivations and characteristics of the design choices that enable the functioning of the Internet. Initially, the principle of communication service offered by a Telecommunication network will be introduced. Fundamental concepts underlying a communication system will be addressed, such as: transmission channel, information multiplexing, protocol, service primitives, network topology, and the problem of multiple access to shared channels. Indicators useful for performance analysis will then be defined. Finally, the Internet architecture will be described in detail according to the TCP/IP model, using a bottom-up approach: starting from the physical layer (service used for information transmission on the channel), proceeding to the link layer, then the network layer (IP protocol), and concluding with the transport layer.
Basic knowledge of Anaylsis and Calculus; Basic knowledge of Computer Architectures.
The teaching methodology is based on analogies and practical examples, possible designed using laboratory tools, to contextualize the topics discussed in relation to the real-world use of different technologies in the Internet network. Classes will primarily be conducted in a frontal mode, covering both theory and in-depth practical exercises useful for passing the final exam.
The assessment of the course is based on a final exam to be taken during the regular sessions on the dates specified in the exam schedule. The individual exam consists of two parts:
Theoretical questions related to the topics covered during the course.
Practical exercises based on the types studied in-depth during the course.
The exam allows for a maximum of 33 points, with 50% allocated to the theoretical part and the remaining 50% to the practical part. The final grade, on a scale of thirty, is equal to the total number of points obtained. A mark of "30 e lode" (the highest grade with honors) is awarded if the sum of points is equal or greater than 31.
General Part:
Introduction to Telecommunications Network Theory (TNT)
Telecommunications Networks: Circuit Switching and Packet Switching
Communication Architectures and Protocols
Multiple Access Channels and Local Networks
Routing Algorithms and Switching Techniques
Specific Part:
TCP/IP Architecture and Internet Network: Communication Protocols and Network Structure; Physical, Link (Ethernet, MAC), Network (IP), and Transport (TCP, UDP) Layers.
Interconnection Devices
Advanced Topics (for 9CFU only):
Network Address Translation (NAT) Techniques
Fundamentals of IPv6
Multicast Communications
