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Computer Networks and Distributed Systems

Examination


The course "Computer Networks and Distributed Systems" (TDTS04) is worth 8 ECTS credits:

  • 3 credits based on the assignments/labs (hands on part), and
  • 5 credits based on the the final exam (theory part).
Of course, some students will find one or the other part of the course easier/harder, so the workload associated with the different parts will therefore vary from student to student. While the grade is based on the written exam, the student must pass both parts of the course for a passing grade (3, 4, or 5).

Note: The format of the exam has changed for 2026.

Grading

The grade for the course depends on the written exam (TEN1), graded Fail/U, 3, 4 or 5.

The labs (LAB1) will be graded Fail/Pass (U/G).

The voluntary assignment (UPG1) will be graded Fail/Pass (U/G) with any accumulated points credited to the total number of points of the main (March) exam. See details below.

Exam format (Updated for 2026!)

The written exam is 4 hours and consists questions of 40 points in total.

Grade requirements
3: ≥20p, 4: ≥28p, 5: ≥36p.

Allowed aids
One (1) A4 sheet with double-sided handwritten notes/figures. No printouts or copies allowed (not even of handwritten notes). No other aids allowed. (New for 2026—note!)

General instructions
Clearly motivate your answers if nothing else is stated. Ensure your answers are complete, precise, and well-written. If you make assumptions, clearly state these, but you are not allowed to change the question. Dodging/answering the wrong (un-asked) question or just adding redundant text "just in case" may result in point deductions. Answers can be written in Swedish or English. You are encouraged to make figures/tables where helpful to support your answers.

Exam structure
The exam will consist of around 8-10 questions of 4-8 points each. The general structure is as follows (see example below):

  • 4p True/False (from all of the course)
  • 8p Integrated View of Computer Networking (e.g., Ch. 6.7 in CN)
  • 4p Application Layer (e.g., HTTP)
  • 4p Tranport Layer (e.g., TCP and its mechanisms)
  • 4p Network Layer (e.g., IP, NAT, algorithms)
  • 4p Link Layer (e.g., ARP, Ethernet, self-learning switches)
  • 4p Foundations of distributed systems (e.g., design goals, transparency) (Ch. 1, 2, and 4 in DS)
  • 4p Coordination and Reliability in dist.sys. (e.g., Lamport's clocks, replication, fault tolerance) (Ch. 5, 7 and 8 in DS)
  • 4p In-depth/extra (e.g., Wifi, security, or other areas primarily within computer networking)
CN: Computer Networking (Kurose & Ross), DS: Distributed Systems (van Steen & Tanenbaum)

Some questions might be easier and some more challenging/comprehensive. For higher points, more comprehensive/detailed answers are generally required.

Bonus points
As communicated in Lisam (offered/available to all students, including former), taking and passing weekly knowledge tests can give up to 4p credited towards the main (March) exam. Bonus points are registered as the voluntary assignment UPG1 and can be counted towards all grades (3/4/5). There is no way to retake the knowledge tests until they are offered again next year. Details are available in the Lisam course room.

Sample exams (requires login)


Exam times

There are three exam opportunities per year: March (main), June (retake), and August (retake). You can search and register for exams at Exam registration (Lisam) and the LiU app.


Page responsible: Carl Magnus Bruhner
Last updated: 2026-03-11