COM 2512: Computer Networks

Abstract

Prerequisite COM 2113 Computer Organization and Assembly Language; Description COM 2512 covers the operation of computer networks in top-down fashion, starting with the application level and proceeding down the Internet protocol stack to the link and physical levels. In this way, it starts with the most familiar software-centric levels and gradually introduces the distinctive lower-level programs that typify network software. The focus of this course is specifically on the protocols that drive the Internet, with less emphasis on other protocol families, such as OSI.

Major Topics Covered in Course • History of networking; protocol stacks before the Internet • The most common Application Level protocols and APIs • Connection-oriented and connectionless transport • The two “planes” of the routed Internet (control and data) • The wide varieties of link-level technology (Ethernet, WiFi, etc.) • Wireless and Mobile networks, including high mobility • Multimedia and other real-time streaming