CS302 -- Unix System Administration

Who

Randy Appleton
JXJ 2214
rappleto@nmu.edu
http://euclid.nmu.edu/~rappleto/Classes/CS302

What
This class is designed for students who are comfortable with computers but would like to more about UNIX and system administration. We will spend lots of time hands-on with Linux workstations in the computer lab. You should expect to be told a root password, 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 referred to the department chair, may he have mercy on your soul.

AI
You are allowed to ask AI how to do something. But often you should not. You need to learn the concept, and be able to do different and related things on the quizzes and tests. You are allowed to work together. Encouraged. You are NOT allowed to use any AI for tests or quizzes. You are NOT allowed to use any AI for writing shell scripts.

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 NOT 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 substantial on-line documentation about system administration and Linux.

All my notes and previous tests can be found at the class web site listed above.

Grades
Grades are assigned from a midterm (20%), projects(30%), and a final (20%). There will be a quiz after every section (30%). I too sometimes want school to end early, butou must show up for the scheduled midterm and final exam

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 challenged, 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.

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.

Outcomes

You should be able to do the following things at a reasonable level of proficiency. (i.e. 80% of students can do 80% of this stuff, or better).