Computer Engineering MA, Distributed Systems and Computing, 6 credits

Aim

This course aims to give both fundamental and enhanced knowledge regarding the architectures and computational aspects of distributed systems, as well as the methods for constructing these types of systems. In particular, the course deals with distributed system design, the problems they solve, and their implementations. Approached from an analytical and algorithmic point of view as well as a research and development perspective. The course includes models for distributed systems and common algorithms, techniques for interprocess communication, replication, synchronization, consistency, fault tolerance, and security.

Course objectives

The student should after completed course be able to:

• Describe distributed systems and their potential advantages
• Explain and describe the properties of a well-structured dynamic distributed system
• Contrast distributed systems against other systems, including how they affect each other
• Describe existing distributed applications and design new ones
• Develop and implementing a secure, reliable, and efficient distributed system
• Evaluate existing systems with consideration of communication and security

Content

Overview of distributed systems and existing applications

• Communication, computation, co-ordination, and synchronization within distributed systems
• Distributed clock, logic time, and global states
• Naming in distributed systems
• Consistency and replication
• Distributed transaction and interprocess communication
• Reliable group communication and fault tolerance

Entry requirements

90 credits finished courses, with at least 60 credits in Computer Engineering BA (ABC), including 12 credits programming and 6 credits computer networks.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

The course consists of a series of lectures, laboratory exercises, and student seminars. The lectures present the necessary background theory and knowledge. In the laboratory exercises, the students’ knowledge and skills are put to the test by a series of implementation challenges. Finally, in the seminars the students will do discussions and case studies of either existing distributed systems or existing research on distributed systems, as well as presenting it to their peers. Only a small part of the work time required for completing the study assignments, laboratory exercises, and seminars will be scheduled. Depending on the programming skill level of the student, the work effort is estimated to 160 hours of work.

Examination form

L101: Laboratory, 2 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale

S101: Seminars, 1 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale

T101: Written exam, 3 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A-F o Fx

The final grade is based on all parts of the course.



Link to subject-specific grading criteria: www.miun.se/gradingcriteria.



The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.

Examination restrictions

Students are entitled to three examination opportunities within one year according to the examination format given in this version of the course syllabus. After the one-year period, the examination format given in the most recent version of the course syllabus applies.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A-F o Fx

Other information

This course cannot be included in the same degree as DT050A, DT017A, or DT073A.