ECE 6769

Data Center Networking Systems

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This is a graduate-level course that covers advanced topics in next-generation data center networking systems. It explores the intersection of computer networking, computer systems, and computer architecture, emphasizing how these traditionally separate domains interact to support large-scale, high-performance communication infrastructures in modern data centers. The course develops a principled understanding of end-to-end datacenter network stack design. Topics include datacenter network architectures (e.g., network topologies and communication protocols), modern networked applications and their communication patterns (e.g., machine learning, data analytics, microservices), advanced network interconnects (e.g., GPU interconnects, optical interconnects, memory interconnects), and programmable networking devices (network switches and network interface card). The goal of this course is to introduce fundamental networking design principles and equip students with a deep understanding of how the performance demands and communication patterns of modern applications shape the design of next-generation networking systems.

Enrollment Information Recommended prerequisites: knowledge of computer architecture and computer systems at the level of ECE 4750 and/or CS 4410, and knowledge of networks at the level of ECE 4450/CS4450.

Last 4 Terms Offered (None)

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate ability to understand fundamental ideas in data center networking systems, including network protocols, network hardware, and communication algorithm.
• Demonstrate ability to critically evaluate networking research papers and articulate well-informed perspectives and insights.
• Demonstrate ability to design, characterize, and experimentally evaluate networking systems.
• Identify novel research problems in networking systems and explore new ideas through a semester-long research project.

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