Advances in Telecommunication Networks

The main learning objectives of this course are as follows:

Knowledge and understanding: Knowledge of advanced topics in networking; knowledge of the fundamentals for the design of network systems and applications.

Applying knowledge and understanding: Acquisition of capability of problem solving and teamwork skills.

Making judgements: Acquisition of self-confidence in assessing the results obtained in applying problem solving.

Communication skills: Ability to present and discuss topics learnt by using proper methodology and speaking English technical language.

Learning skills: Capability to develop and exploit critical knowledge through a variety of learning modalities, ranging from attending frontal lectures, experiencing laboratory activities, and study of reference textbooks.

The course involves frontal lectures, laboratories, and seminars.

1. Evolutional trends of networking

Architectural and conceptual issues for the next-generation Internet. Principles of network programmability. Advanced approaches for network control and management. Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV).

2. Advanced network applications

Main application protocols: HTTP, SMTP, DNS. Peer-to-peer applications. Data Center networking. Multimedia network applications: video streaming and Content Delivery Networks.

3. Technologies for wireless access networks

Wireless LANs and ad hoc networks. Vehicular networks. UAVs. Underwater communications. Body and intrabody area networks. Satellite-based networks.

4. Architectures and systems for optical transport networks

Fundamentals of fiber optic communications. Optical switches and routers.

5. Tools for network modeling and design

Network optimization techniques. Machine learning in networking. Game theory.

1) J. Kurose, K. Ross: Computer Networking, Addison-Wesley.

2) A. Tanenbaum: Computer Networks, Prentice-Hall.

3) D. Bertsekas, R. Gallager: Data Networks, Prentice-Hall.

4) A. Pattavina: Internet e Reti - Fondamenti.

The questions cover all topics covered in class.

Some examples:

Main evolutionary trends of the next-generation of Internet. Principles of Software Defined Networking and Network Function Virtualization. Peer-to-peer networks. Video streaming and Content Delivery Networks. Underwater networks. Communication techniques for e-health. IEEE 802.11 protocol standards. Taxonomy of Machine Learning techniques.