Catalogue 2006-07:

Applications of stochastic modeling and optimization techniques to communication network design and analysis. Data link control; performance models; multi-access channels; routing and flow control. Prerequisite: EE 450; EE 549 or EE 465.

 

Textbook:

1. Data Networks (2nd ed.) by D. Bertsekas and R. Gallager.

 

Course monitors:

Michael J. Neely

 

Topics:

1) Network Layering
2) CRC codes for Error Detection
3) Data Link Control and Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) Protocols, TCP
4) Basic Queueing, Little's Theorem and Poisson Systems
5) Continuous and Discrete Time Markov chains: Truncation and
Drift methods for Steady State Analysis
6) Circuit and Packet Switching
7) Optimal Networks and the Wavelength Continuity Constraint
8) Multiple Access and ALOHA
9) Splitting Algorithms for Multi-Access
10) Token Rings
11) Switching and Scheduling
12) Graph Algorithms for Network Routing: Shortest Path, Spanning Trees
13) Flow constraints for optimal routing, Introduction to Backpressure Routing

 

Course Objectives:

This course teaches the theoretical principles of network analysis and design
for the various network layers. It also introduces students to several types
of networks (wired, wireless, optical). A final course project encourages
students to explore in more depth the topics they are most interested in, and
project presentations allow students to present their findings to their
classmates.

 

Course Outcomes:

The students will be able to:
1. Understand the functions of each network layer and the
relevant design choices for network protocols.
2. Identify the operating assumptions and constraints for different networks.
3. Identify suitable protocols and design strategies, and choose parameters
for efficient operation.
4. Apply queueing delay models to measure network performance.
5. Apply Markov chain techniques to network system analysis and design.
6. Formulate their own examples and problems, and solve them using
theory from the course.

Laboratory Projects:

The project involves a deeper study of a particular network technology
or concept. Group projects (with two to three people per group) are
encouraged. The project will involve a problem formulation, analytical
and/or simulation results, and a final report and class presentation.
Example topics: Wavelength assignment algorithms, Packet switching,
multi-access for ad-hoc networks, ARQ for Satellites, ARQ with Network
Coding, Optimal Routing and Backpressure Algorithms, Energy Aware
Networking, Wireless Multicasting under the Broadcast Advantage, etc.