Outline for CSCI 599
Virtual and Overlay Networks
Spring 2006

Please read carefully:
 
Class Description
  • Overlays provide network architects the ability to customize a network without the overhead of deploying dedicated real links. Originally intended as a stop-gap to enable the incremental deployment of new protocols (e.g., multicast), they are increasingly being used for more permanent purposes, including application-specific networks and virtual infrastructure.
  • This class covers the fundamentals of virtual and overlay networks, and how they can be used to simplify applications, network management, and testbed deployment. It discusses the unique opportunities afforded by this capability, the different overlay methods available, how they challenge the Internet architecture, and their current and inherent limitations. Students will be provided with sufficient working knowledge to apply virtual networks as a tool in their own research.
  • The presentations involve researching a topic, exploring background material, examining a paper or two, and preparing a talk based on that topic. You are expected to spend several weeks to prepare your presentation.
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    Text Book
  • There is no textbook required for this course. We are examining options for use of a text in process, together with readings from a list of papers.
  • Most of the readings will be from papers and web pages found under "Useful Links" on the sidebar.
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    Implicit Student Agreement
  • ALL work including homeworks, programming assignments and exams must be that of the individual student. It is often productive to study with other students. However, if any portions of homeworks or programming assingments are found to be shared between two (or more) students, zero credit will be given to all students concerned and all students will be disciplined. This policy is in the interest of those students who do their own work, which hopefully applies to all of you in this class. 
  •  This policy also holds for  programming assignments. In this class, we will use sophisticated automated program checkers to detect cheating. Be aware that the program checkers have demonstrated very good results and are widely used within the academic community. Any student caught cheating will be given zero credit and will be disciplined.
  •  It is the students responsibility to submit their assignments on time. 

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    Student Responsibilities
     
    You are expected to read all the papers in detail. Not all details will be covered in class.  I will assume knowledge of material covered in CSCI551 and a C language programming proficiency. If you covered the introductory material at some other school it is YOUR responsibility to fill in any missing background. Feel free to ask me for advice on appropriate introductory readings if you feel your background is insufficient.
    Other background reading. Occasionally, we refer to material covered in other classes like cs555 or ee555. You are expected to cover that material on your own.
    I expect you to attend every class meeting. This course meets once a week, which means missing one day is like missing two classes. If you do happen to miss a session, you are responsible for finding out what material was covered and if any administrative announcements were made. You must do so BEFORE the next session (e.g., if there is an assignment given during the missed session, you are still responsible for completing it by the next week along with the other students).  You are advised to read the material for a particular lecture before attending the lecture. This will greatly enhance your understanding of the subject matter. 
    Grading Policies

    Homework (35%) 
  • Assignments must be completed on time. No late submissions will be accepted.
  • Half the homework will be Q&A, the other half will be hands-on.
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    Presentation (25%) 
  • Students are expected to form teams of two for their presentations. You must pick your teamate early. You will be asked to pick a presentation topic within the first week of classes.
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    Exams (40%)
  •  There will be regular exams in this class. They will not all be announced in advance.
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    Grading :
  • I WILL assign grades of C and BELOW to individuals who do not perform satisfactorily. (i.e., you should not ``assume'' a B- or even C if you perform unsatisfactorily.). However, I HOPE that everyone will perform well. 
  • Your assignments must be your own work. Anyone caught cheating WILL BE EXPELLED FROM THE CLASS.
  • You can view your grade online through this web site.  You will be provided with instructions on how to do so. Check your grade online after each assignment. If you find any inconsistencies, please contact the TA immediately.

    • I will NOT assign incompletes unless it is for a documented medical reason (in accordance with USC policy).