Course Description:

This course is an introduction to security issues facing computer professionals today. Students will acquire the knowledge and skills on how to maintain the integrity, authenticity, availability and privacy of data. It covers computer viruses, authentication models, certificates, group policy, cryptography, and access control. It also introduces the fundamental security issues of programming, database and web server. Other topics include how to monitor the system for suspicious activity and fend off attacks, to keep spies and Spam out of the e-mail, to take control of security by encrypting data, to design Active directory, blocking ports, and locking down the registry.

Objective:

This is the first course of the information security module. It equips students and computing professionals with the basic information security knowledge and operating system security skills needed to implement and maintain modern information infrastructure and systems.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

• • Demonstrate understanding of the risks and vulnerabilities associated with computer programs.
  • Maintain the integrity, authenticity, availability and privacy of data.
  • Demonstrate understanding of how to protect privacy by using cryptography.
  • Demonstrate understanding of network protocols and the risks and vulnerabilities associated with computer networks.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the risks and vulnerabilities associated with operating systems.
  • Secure the Windows and LINUX/UNIX operating system.

Prerequisites:

CST2307

Topics and Schedule:

Week 1:             Introduction to Information Security

Week 2:            The Need for Security

Weeks 3-4:     Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues in Information Security.

Weeks 5-6:     Risk Management

Week 7:            Physical Security, Midterm 

Weeks 8-9:    Cryptography I 

Weeks 10-12: Cryptography II & III

Weeks 13-14: Planning for Security

Week 15:          Project presentation & FINAL

Course grading formula:

Assignments                                      15%

Quizzes                                                12%

Participation                                      13%

Final Project                                      15%

On-line Certificate                         15%

Midterm Exam                                 15%

Final Exam                                        15%

                                                            100%