CS 4390.

002: Computer Networks

Spring 2005
Tuesday, Thursday, 9:30 am – 10:45 am
ECS South 2.415
Instructor: Ravi Prakash
Department of Computer Science
Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science
Room #: ECS South 4.210
Phone: (972) 883-2289
e-mail: ravip@utdallas.edu
URL: www.utdallas.edu/∼ravip.

Catalog Statement
The design and analysis of computer networks. Topics include: the ISO reference model, transmission media, medium-
access protocols, LANs, data link protocols, routing, congestion control, internetworking, and connection manage-
ment.
Prerequisite: CS/SE 3345 or equivalent, programming skills in C/C++ and/or in Java, and working knowledge
of a UNIX-based operating system.

Textbook and Syllabus

Textbook: J. Kurose and K. Ross, ”Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet”, Addison-
Wesley, 3rd edition.
The topics and chapters to be discussed in the course are:
Topic Chapter Classes
Introduction 1 4
Application Layer 2 5
Transport Layer 3 6
Network Layer and Routing 4 6
Link Layer and Local Area Networks 5 5
Time permitting, portions of chapter 6 will also be covered.

Examinations and Grading

There will be one midterm examination on Thursday, February 24 during class, one final examination on Thursday,
April 28 starting at 8:00 am, three programming projects, and at least three homeworks.
Examinations, homeworks and projects should be strictly individual work. Examinations will be conducted on a
closed book, closed notes, and closed neighbors basis. Copying on examinations, homeworks and programming
projects is prohibited. Any instance of collaboration or plagiarism will be dealt with as per the university’s rules
concerning academic misconduct. Students are required to explain how they reached their solution and demonstrate
the execution of their project to the instructor and/or teaching assistant. If the student is unable to provide a satisfactory
explanation, (s)he may lose points even if the answer is correct.

1
Point Distribution
Midterm 25%
Final 25%
Homeworks 20%
Programming Projects 30%

Examination and Attendance Policy

If a student is unable to take the examinations on their scheduled dates, (s)he should inform the instructor well in
advance. Makeup examinations will be scheduled only if the student has valid medical reasons. In such situations, the
student is expected to present documentary evidence. It is hoped that students will refrain from announcing the demise
of the same relative on multiple occasions!
If a student has to be absent for several classes because of job related obligations, he/she will not be eligible for an
incomplete grade. In such instances the student is advised to drop the course.

Office Hours
Tuesdays: 11:00 am - noon
Thursdays: 11:00 am - noon
and by appointment.

Important Dates
• First class: Tuesday, January 11
• Midterm examination: Thursday, February 24
• Last class: Thursday, April 21
• Final examination: Thursday, April 28

Announcements
From time to time, I will keep updating the course page on WebCT to provide online access to lecture notes, quiz
dates, project deadlines, etc. So, make sure that you check the web on a regular basis.