What
This class is designed for students who are comfortable with computers
but would like to more about UNIX and system adminstration. We will
spend
lots of time hands-on with Linux workstations in the computer lab. You
should expect to be told a root pasword, and to treat that knowledge
with
respect. We've had several break-ins from people who did real
damage.
People who violate security will be refered to the department chair,
may
he have mercy on your soul.
The Lab
The lab is used by more than this class. Although we would like
to keep these machines working, at times that will not be
possible.
Each of you will be responsible for one machine. It is your
toy.
You may play as you will provided that you don't cause others
(including
me) grief. Please see me before you set up any network server
processes.
We share the network with the rest of the building, and all of the
machines
are behind a firewall. These things need to be considered, but I'll say
yes if I can (and I probably can, too). Euclid is our
server.
It is mine to maintain.
Textbook
There is no textbook for this class. Instead we will use the
substancial
on-line documentation about system administration and Linux. This does
not mean that you will have no reading outside of class. Instead,
I will try and assign take-home quizes. Your task will be to find
the answer to my questions any way you can.
All my notes and previous tests can be found at the class web site listed above.
Grades
Grades are assigned from two midterms , projects and a final
. There may be a quiz at the end of every section or two (always
pre-announced). Each quiz counts for little towards the total
grade.
Hopefully the quizes will let you know how you are doing while there is
still time to change it, and let me know what subject areas I need to
review.
All tests are open note and open book.
The projects are quite important. Each project will be structured so that everyone can finish it completely. If you have trouble with a project, come ask me (or a fellow student) for help. My goal is to have everyone challanged, but also finish each project. You can get help in any way you feel appropriate, but make sure that YOU DO THE WORK and that YOU UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT.
Grades will be ABOUT 1/3 A's, 1/3 B's, and 1/3 C's. A grade sheet showing your grades and where you stand in the class can be found at the class website.
Late Policy
I hate late assignments!!! However, it is much better to turn something
in late rather than not at all. The late penalty is one letter grade
per
for being late, plus more if it's VERY late. If there was some
unavoidable
reason you could not turn a project in on time (i.e. car crash, snow
day,
etc.) just ask me to waive the penalty. I'm pretty lenient.
Extra Credit
I'll be happy to give a little extra credit. It would probably be some
sort of project, but I'm open to ideas. Ask me sometime after a
midterm.