Catalog Description: CPSC341--Networking (3)

An introduction to Networking concepts for LAN and WAN environments. Topics include Hubs, Routers, Switches, Network design, Installation, Administration, Protocol, Security, Client/Server operating systems and future trends in data communications. Actual experience in the advanced CS lab with networking is an integral part of the course. Prerequisite: letter grade of C or better in MATH 150 or permission of the instructor . Offered Fall 2008 and alternate Fall semesters.

NOTICE CONCERNING WEB SITE: This syllabus and all daily assignments including exam information is posted on my web site at
www.malone.edu/erodd
On that page will be a link to this course. The course page has links to this syllabus and the assignments. While I will generally announce assignments in class, the web page will always have up to date details and students are responsible to be aware of these details.

I. Objectives

1. Gain an understanding of networking concepts.
2. Gain an understanding of the theory and usage of major network applications.
3. Gain an understanding of digital transmission fundamentals.
4. Understand concepts of LANs and packet networks.
5. Obtain a working knowledge of TCP/IP protocol.
6. Be able to take and read a trace of simple TCP/IP flows.
7. Understand the factors which influence network performance.
8. Be able to perform straightforward quantitative calculations and comparisons involving network flows and speeds.

1. Computer Networking (4th Edition!) by James Kurose and Keith W. Ross
   The text is an integral part of the course and will be heavily used!
   Note that this edition differs significantly from the 3rd edition.

   The sections of the text we will cover are:

   1. Chapter 1: All
   2. Chapters 2-5: Significant portions but not all
   3. Chapter 6: Key concepts as time is available.
   4. Chapters 8 and 9: Key concepts as time is available.
2. Homework/lab work will include the following:
   • Review questions from the text.
   • Problems from the text.
   • Handouts of quantitative problems.
   • Ethereal labs from the textbook web site.
   • Additional lab work.
3. Class discussion.
4. Daily assignments. Collaboration is encouraged.
5. Three mid-term exams.

1. I will announce office hours.
2. I can always be contacted via email. When working on homework, if you encounter roadblocks, please be free to contact me via email. Even in the evening, I often check email and will respond!

All work handed in should be machine printed (last minute changes or notations by hand are acceptable). Simple printed NOTEPAD text files are acceptable. Organization and clarity of work are most important. LINUX users may use vi or other favorite editor.

Details on how programming assignments are to be turned in will be provided separately.

1. Homework, lab work, and quizzes (35%)

   Because I know that sometimes "things happen", your worst 2 daily assignment/quiz grades will be dropped from your average. Thus you can miss two assignments/quizzes without severe penalty.

2. Class Participation (5%)
3. Midterm Exams (60%)

V. Academic Integrity

Cheating is a form of lying and indicates a serious spiritual and moral problem. Cheating will lead to dismissal from the course with a failing grade. Refer to the section of the catalog on Academic Integrity.