Principles of Computer Systems: Fundamentals & Abstractions

This lecture introduces the Principles of Computer Systems course, covering the science and fundamentals of building computer systems. The instructors, Katrina, George, John, and Sam, will delve into modular abstraction, naming, layering, client-server architecture, and redundancy. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding operating systems, networks, computer architecture, and databases for success. Through readings, recitations, and assignments, students will explore the principles underlying system design patterns and the challenges of system complexity. The lecture also highlights the significance of modularity and abstraction in controlling system behavior and scalability, with a focus on the scalable commutativity rule for designing scalable interfaces.