VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Advanced Topics in Communication Networks
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:01:59
Abstract
This course covers advanced topics and technologies in computer networks, both theoretically and practically. It is offered each Fall semester, with rotating topics. Repetition for credit is possible with consent of the instructor. In the next edition, the course will cover advanced topics in Internet routing and forwarding.
Objective
The goals of this course is to provide students with a deeper understanding of the existing and upcoming Internet routing and forwarding technologies used in large-scale computer networks such as Internet Service Providers (e.g., Swisscom or Deutsche Telekom), Content Delivery Networks (e.g., Netflix) and Data Centers (e.g., Google). Besides covering the fundamentals, the course will be “hands-on” and will enable students to play with the technologies in realistic network environments, and even implement some of them on their own during labs and a final group project.
Content
The course will cover advanced topics in Internet routing and forwarding such as: - Tunneling - Hierarchical routing - Traffic Engineering and Load Balancing - Virtual Private Networks - Quality of Service/Queuing/Scheduling - Fast Convergence - Network virtualization - Network programmability (OpenFlow, P4) - Network measurements The course will be divided in two main blocks. The first block (~8 weeks) will interleave classical lectures with practical exercises and labs. The second block (~6 weeks) will consist of a practical project which will be performed in small groups (~3 students). During the second block, lecture slots will be replaced by feedback sessions where students will be able to ask questions and get feedback about their project. The last week of the semester will be dedicated to student presentations and demonstrations.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes and material will be made available before each course on the course website.
Literature
Relevant references will be made available through the course website.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Course Website
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- None
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Advanced Topics in Communication Networks |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Advanced Topics in Communication Networks |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
-
-
Computers and Networks (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Computers and Networks", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
Core Courses (These core courses are particularly recommended for the field of "Computers and Networks". You may choose core courses form other fields in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc EEIT.)
-
Advanced Core Courses (Advanced core courses bring students to gain in-depth knowledge of the chosen specialization. They are MSc level only.)
-
-
-
-
-
Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
-
Core Subjects (These core subjects are particularly recommended for the field of "Computers and Networks".)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-