GOALS:
After successful completion of the course, students should be able to acquire the following:
- Understanding the migration scenarios from 2G/3G to 4G and 5G and Beyond
- Factual knowledge of Evolved Packet Core (EPC) and 5G architecture
- Familiarity with latest developments in NFV and Network Softwarization/Slicing
- Understanding of needs for Software Defined Networking (SDN), SDN controllers and SDN protocols & mechanisms
- Development of skills for research and presentation of complex concepts to a general audience
- Development of technical writing skills
CONTENT:
This course will be organized in a hybrid format. The initial sessions will feature contact lectures that introduce key system-level technical issues involved in the design and deployment of mobile communication systems, specifically the Evolved Packet System (EPS) and the 5G core network, in a step-by-step manner. These lectures will cover aspects relevant to carrier-grade virtual mobile networks, a significant vision for 5G and beyond, including Network Function Virtualization, Network Slicing, and Software Defined Networking.
After students have grasped the basics of the 4G and 5G core networks, the remaining sessions will follow a flipped learning style. In this phase, students will investigate topics relevant to the course theme, present their findings to their peers, and engage in discussions. The lecturer will provide guidance and relevant materials for these topics.
The topics will cover recent developments in the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards, technical enhancements for challenging 5G and beyond vertical use cases, and envisioned developments for 6G. These topics will not only expose students to concepts beyond the legacy systems discussed in the lectures but also help them further develop their presentation and research skills.
MISCELLANEOUS:
The course will be conducted in English. Additional adjustments may be made depending on the specific focus and depth of the course content.
EXAM:
Mode of Assessment
Assessment in this course will include the following:
- In/after-class Quizzes (40% of course grade)
- Short Quiz consisting of multiple-choice questions that sum up the main take-away of the relevant session.
- Special Assignments – Active participation to the obligatory assignments (60% of course grade)
- Each student will make different assignments individually or in groups, and accordingly report on them.
- Kursleiter/in: Tarik Taleb