The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the Internet network as a complex system composed of a large number of interconnected networks, administered in an independent fashion by people seeking to accomplish diverse objectives. In this scenario, the ability to route efficiently, flexibly and in a scalable way is of uttermost importance, and technologies differ notably from those presented to the student in previous courses. In addition, business considerations play a key role in the Internet, since the way networks can obtain economic benefit determines how the routing technology is designed and deployed.
In the labor future, the student will work for an organization which will depend on the quality of the Internet connection, either as traffic sink, as traffic source, or as a connectivity provider between networks or users. In this case, the student will benefit from knowing how the Internet works and which configurations are required to fulfill specified objectives.
To complete these objectives, the student must acquire the following knowledge:
- Understand the organizational model of the Internet. Understand the business model for transporting data over the Internet, and the impact in the technical decisions. Understand how competency among providers results in an appropriate solution for services provided by a large number of agents.
- Understand the routing protocol among networks, BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), which is the technology used to solve interdomain routing.
Regarding to the general abilities, in this course we will work on:
- An overview of the complex problem of traffic transportation, in particular, integrating business and technical considerations
- A critic attitude about current and developing technologies
- The ability to configure communication equipment (routers) to comply with defined objectives
In relation with the Program Outcomes specified for the degree, this course aims to cover:
"a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, science, telecommunication technologies and engineering
c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet identified needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of tele-communication solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
j) a knowledge of contemporary issues
k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice"
