Mobile Networks and Services

This course provides a comprehensive overview of mobile wireless networks. It will cover the fundamentals of mobile wireless communication with special emphasis on cellular communications and signalling, briefly presenting multiple access techniques. Access and core networks (from GSM to 5G) are examined as well as their main functional network elements. Mobility and session management are covered, together with standard communication protocols and frameworks over IP.

A. Knowledge: To be able to remember, understand and analyse:

1. the design and the trade-off between capacity and coverage in a cellular-based mobile wireless system;
2. the fundamental functions of mobility;
3. signalling in IP networks;
4. concepts and principles of mobility and mobile communications;

B. Skills: To be able to:

1. communicate, reason and creatively think about mobility and mobile communications;
2. design, implement and use mobile communication systems;
3. communicate, reason and creatively think about IP network signalling;

C. General competence: To be able to use the acquired knowledge and skills for:

1. responsibly applying mobile communication and mobile networking principles in a societal context;
2. collaborating to the development of wireless mobile networks, both independently and in teams.

The course teaches how to responsibly apply mobile communication and mobile networking principles in a societal context. Therefore, it can contribute to all UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where digital solutions can benefit from global and affordable mobile network connectivity.

The course uses team-based learning. Lectures and exercises are combined. The intention is to facilitate learning and to provide feedback to students throughout the semester, and enable learning in the context of realistic scenarios through projects.

Throughout the semester, students receive feedback on their level of preparation through tests that are done during class time.

To develop skills and knowledge on higher cognitive levels, students also conduct up to 3 practical assignments throughout the semester.