Systems architecture and IT networks

part 1

The aim of this course is to help you to understand how information is represented in a computer and how it is processed by the latter. This involves studying the components of a computer and the general principles of its operating system. The course also covers data communication through the Internet and the Web.

The topics covered will be as follows (subject to change):

• Representation of information: In computing systems, information is digitized in order to associate any real object with a computer-readable description of it. Understanding how numbers, texts, images, etc. are represented digitally is important for perceiving the effects of digitization on the quality of digital information and on the specific conditions for storing, processing and transmitting information.
• Hardware architectures and operating systems: An algorithm expressed in a programming language is a program that can be executed by a computer. Operating systems manage and optimize all machine functions, from program execution to memory management and inputs/outputs. Understanding, even in simplified terms, the structure and organization of a computer when executing a program is very useful to understand the capabilities and limitations of computers.
• Information and communication technologies: These technologies enable users to produce, store, exchange and process information in the form of text and multimedia content. Studying the foundations of these technologies, and in particular the Internet and the Web, provides a better understanding of the omnipresent digital environment.

part 2

Partim 2 of the course will deal in greater depth with some of the material covered in Partim 1.

All the information given below for Partim 1 also applies to Partim 2.

part 1

After completing this course, you will be able to explain the general principles of how computers, the Internet, and the Web work.

part 1

There is no prerequisite.

part 1

Learning will take place through:

• Theory classes, given by the professor.
• Exercise sessions, led by the supervisory team (the professor, an assistant and/or a student instructor).

part 1

Face-to-face course


Further information:

The course is given during the second semester.

part 1

Platform(s) used for course materials:
- eCampus


Further information:

The following materials cover the course material and are mandatory:

• Course notes covering the material covered in theory classes.
• Slides used in theory classes.
• Exercise statements.

part 1

Exam(s) in session

Any session

- In-person

written exam


Further information:

Closed-book written exam.

part 1

All course information will be posted on eCampus.

part 1

Professor : Vân Anh Huynh-Thu.

Email : vahuynh@uliege.be

Office : 1.103, B28 (Montefiore Institute, Sart-Tilman)