OVERVIEW

The class aims at deepening the knowledge of the main architectural aspects and protocols at the basis of the Wireless Networks. It is essentially organized into two parts, addressing an introduction to wireless communications, WiFi (IEEE 802.11) networks (up to the latest technological evolutions),  and modern radio-mobile networks (from the fourth (LTE) to the 5th (5G) generation).

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching unit aims to provide the students with the understanding of all major network technologies that use wireless transmissions, considering application areas and architectures both from a functional and performance point of view.
More specifically, the main objective is to provide knowledge and insight into on the following topics: 
i) Introduction to architectures with the classification of wireless networks in mobile cellular systems, and technologies for wireless local area networks (WLAN) 
ii) The standard for IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi) WLAN networks, focusing on the main features and functions to manage device connectivity,described in all its evolutions starting from version 11b up to version 11ax. 
iii) The cellular mobile radio networks -, with specific reference to the fourth (4G) and fifth generation (5G) and beyond, including architectures and protocols for the access and core network. Supporting technologies such as NFV, Cloud and Edge computing are also briefly introduced.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

In more detail, the course aims to provide knowledge and insight on the following topics. Introduction to architectures with the classification of wireless networks in mobile cellular systems, technologies for wireless local area networks (LAN) and Personal-Sensor-Body Area Networks (PAN, SAN, and BAN). Specification of cellular mobile radio networks, especially focusing on the fourth (4G, LTE) and the fifth (5G) generations. The standard for IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi) WLAN networks, described in all its evolutions starting from version 11b up to version 11ac. A summary of the technologies for managing mobility. An overview of the newest evolution of mobile radio networks in the standardization phase: the fifth generation (5G) of the cellular network. The result of learning is to give the student, oriented to a specific field of Engineering, the ability to understand the different technologies of wireless networks and make effective design choices that provide for their use.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge on the computer network architectures and protocols

TEACHING METHODS

Discussion of the teached topics

Students who hold valid certificates relating to Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD), disabilities or other educational needs are invited to contact the lecturer and the school’s disability liaison officer at the start of the course to agree on any teaching arrangements which, whilst respecting the course objectives, take into account individual learning styles. 

The contact details for the university’s disability liaison officer are available at the following link: https://unige.it/commissioni/comitatoperlinclusionedeglistudenticondisabilita. 

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

1. Introduction to Wireless
2. WiFi: IEEE 802.11
3. Radio mobile networks
   1. Fourth Generation (4G-UMTS)
   2. Fifth Generation (5G)
4. Introduction to the management of mobility in packet networks

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Course Slides
S. Tanembaum, Computer Networks, (5th Edition), 2010.
W. Stallings, Wireless Communications and Networks (2nd Edition), Prentice Hall, 2004.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

ROBERTO BRUSCHI (President)

CHIARA LOMBARDO (President Substitute)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/index.php?view=easycourse&_lang=it&include=corso

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral examination

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The assessment will be based on the student's knowledge level and capacity to apply network network architectures and protocols, including WLANs, cellular networks (4G and 5G), and mobile management issues.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) may request accommodations for exams at least 7 days prior to the exam date by filling out the “accommodation request form” (available via online services at https://modulionline.unige.it/richiesta-adattamenti# no-back), which will be automatically forwarded by the system to the instructor in charge of the course and to the faculty liaison for students with disabilities and SLDs in their School/Department. 

The student will receive a copy of their request.