Advanced distributed systems, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course studies the underlying principles and technologies that are used to realize large-scale distributed systems. The course will give an overview of the building blocks used to construct distrubuted systems (for example programmimg, security, and service models) and discuss the trade-offs that come into play when distributed systems are scaled to large scale. The course also gives an overview of the main paradigms of distributed systems and computing and studies current examples from the fields of Peer-to-peer, High-Performance, High Throughput, Grid och Cloud computing. Great emphasis is placed on the acquiring practical skills in distributed systems development.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 1) explain and characterize the exchange conditions between different paradigms for distributed systems,
• (FSR 2) exemplify and explain the security issues that arise in distributed systems,
• (FSR 3) list and exemplify the main types of distrubuted systems that are in use today and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of these types of systems for different applications,
• (FSR 4) define and explain the basic tenants of modern distributed architectures, and exemplify different techniques that can be used to realize service-oriented architectures.

Competence and skills
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 5) classify distributed systems with respect to the technologies and applications that are used in the realizations of distributed systems,
• (FSR 6) combine theories and methods within distributed systems with skills and abilities within software engineering to  develope modern distributed systems,
• (FSR 7) based on earlier experiences, aquire information and skills needed to use common development tools in distributed systems.

Required Knowledge

At least 90 ECTS, including 60 ECTS Computing Science. At least 7.5 ECTS data structures and algorithms; 7.5 ECTS object-oriented programming; 7.5 ECTS application development; 7.5 ECTS systems programming; 7.5 ECTS operating systems; 7.5 ECTS data communication and computer networks; and 7.5 ECTS distributed systems. Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

Instruction consists of lectures, assignments in smaller groups, and work in computer labs. In addition to scheduled activities, individual work with the material is also required.

Examination modes

The student is examined on the course in three different ways:

• individual practical assignments which are reported in written form (FSR 1-7),
• one project done in group and reported both writtten and orally (FSR 1-7), and,
• a written exam in halls (FSR 1-5). 

On the course as a whole, the grades given are Fail (U), Pass (3) or Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5). The final grade of the course is a summary assessment of the results on all parts of the examination.

Adapted examination
The examiner can decide to deviate from the specified forms of examination. Individual adaptation of the examination shall be considered based on the needs of the student. The examination is adapted within the constraints of the expected learning outcomes. A student that needs adapted examination shall no later than 10 days before the examination request adaptation from the Department of Computing Science. The examiner makes a decision of adapted examination and the student is notified.

Other regulations

In a degree, this course may not be included, in whole or in part, simultaneously with another course of similar content. If in doubt, consult the student counselors at the Department of Computer Science and / or program director of programs.

If the syllabus has expired or the course has been discontinued, a student who at some point registered for the course is guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination) according to this syllabus for a maximum period of two years from the syllabus expiring or the course being discontinued.