EE384 M: Network Algorithms

3 units, Fall 2004

Balaji Prabhakar

Lectures: Monday, Wednesday 11:00-12:15

Location: Skilling 191 [No room change!] (map)









People

Handouts

Projects

Course Description:


This is an advanced course on the theory and practice of designing algorithms for problems arising in networking. 
Topics include: Load balancing algorithms, switch scheduling, congestion control and active queue management,
scaleable network simulation and performance prediction, algorithms arising in the web infrastructure, and wireless
networks.  Algorithm design using randomization, sampling, and other approximation methods.  The performance
of these algorithms will be analyzed using tools from stochastic network theory; including the use of exponential
martingales, large deviation theory, fluid models, and coupling arguments. 

The course involves a research project and a strong background in probability will be useful, although it is not
required.

Click here for a tentative schedule.


Announcements:

(watch this space regularly for updates)

1. The handouts can be found in the appropriately marked file cabinet in the corridor facing Packard 267.
The homeworks are expected to be placed in the above cabinet by Monday 11am or turn them in the class
on Monday. Any late submission must be made directly to the TA and a prior approval has to be made for
the delay.

2. The Professor's office hours will be in Packard 269.
The TA's office hours will be normally in the Packard kitchen area of the second floor but you might have to
check in Packard 270. If by any chance you need to make appointment with the professor or TA outside the
office hours, please schedule an appointment with them via email.

3. The TA will try to respond to all of his emails within 24 hours on weekdays. However any email sent after
Friday afternoon might only be acknowledged by Monday afternoon.

4. IMPORTANT: Please register on the class web-site.





Office Hours:


Prof. Balaji Prabhakar : Packard 269; Monday, Wednesday 1:30 - 2:30 pm.

Devavrat Shah : Packard 270 or Packard 2nd floor kitchen area; Tuesday, Friday 11 - noon
                                 (Problem review sessions will be held during Friday office hours, announcement will be sent)


Grading:

1. Homeworks: There will be 3 homework assignments.  Will be handed out in class and also posted on class website.
Homeworks will account for 20 % of your final grade.

2. Midterm: The plan is for a 3 day take home exam. Dates to be decided soon.
Midterm will account for 30 % of your grade.

3.  Final Project: A final project on some topic related to the material taught in class is expected.  We recommend
students to do project in a team of two students.  Students are expected to give a 15 minute presentation towards the
last week and  submit a report (not exceeding 6 pages).

You can check out the list of course projects done in Spring 2004. We may give a list of possible project topics. However,
 people are encouraged to find  their own projects and discuss with the instructor or TA during office hours.  A project
proposal (not exceeding two pages) is expected by the end of third week. The project will account for 50% of your grade.