Communication networks

linfo2147  2025-2026  Louvain-la-Neuve

Communication networks
5.00 credits
30.0 h + 15.0 h
Q1
> Schedule
Teacher(s)
Pelsser Cristel;
Language
English
> French-friendly
Main themes
  • Introduction, media access control, layered models,
  • Internet Protocol, IP routing, introduction to IPv6,
  • DNS, e-mail, common protocols,
  • Multimedia networking (streaming, VoIP, DVB),
  • Network security and advanced topics.
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

With respect to the AA referrng system defined for the Master in Electrical Engineering, the course contributes to the development mastery and assessment of the following skills :
  • AA1.1, AA1.3
  • AA2.1, AA2.3, AA2.4
  • AA5.1, AA5.2, AA5.3, AA5.5.
At the end of this course, the students will be able to:
  • understand the architecture of communication networks,
  • identify the routing strategies which are best suited to a particular network topology,
  • identify transport protocols appropriate for a given service,
  • solve simple connectivity issues,
  • design architectures allowing secure communications.
Transverse learning outcomes :
  • use a network simulation tool;
  • configure network parameters of a Linux based system using low-level commands;
  • configure a router using a (Cisco) IOS-like syntax.
 
Content
  • Introduction to communication networks,
  • Media Access Control, Layered models,
  • Internet Protocol, IP fragmentation,
  • UDP, TCP, ICMP, traceroute & PMTU discovery,
  • Static IP routing, dynamic routing (algorithms and protocols),
  •  DNS, e-mail (SMTP, POP3, IMAP4),
  •  common protocols (HTTP, FTP, etc.),
  • streaming protocols,
  •  NAT, introduction to IPv6,
  • wireless network protocols (3G/4G/5G, Wifi, BlueTooth, BLE),
  • wearable devices, IoT & smart sensors (Zigbee, NFC, Lora, Sigfox),
  • introduction to network security,.
Teaching methods
- Traditional lectures,
- Exercices,
- Labs in computer room allowing the student to use the theoretical concepts seen during the lecture on a simulated network
Evaluation methods
Written exam (80%)
Homework (20%)
The homework cannot be redone for the second session. The grade obtained during the second session replaces all the previous grades.
Other information
Students will program in python for some labs. Basic knowledge of the programming language is a plus.
Online resources
Moodle : https://moodle.uclouvain.be/course/view.php?id=768
Bibliography
- Notes de cours,
- James Kurose and Keith Ross, «Computer Networking, A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet».
Faculty or entity
> INFO


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

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Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
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