Module ICP-3011:
Computer & Network Security

Module Facts

Run by School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering

10.000 Credits or 5.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Dr Cameron Gray

Overall aims and purpose

To give an understanding of the issues surrounding security in computing, networks and the interconnected world and experience in how to defend their systems against attacks. To expose students to common themes and activities required to secure programs, machines and networks. To give practical experience of the processes and mindset that attackers will use to defeat system security. To present the concept of layered/blended responses.

Course content

  • To differentiate between white and black hat hackers and understand the aims of them.

  • Definitions and usage of Authentication, Authorisation and Accounting; the weaknesses of various schemes and issues surrounding the storage of data.

  • Overview of ways in which attacks can be made against networks / computer systems. Methods hackers use to attempt a break in. Wireless networks and their problems

  • The layered protection model (Onion Response) and methods that allow networks to be protected

  • Understanding of how encryption works, the two major ‘forms’ of encryption, the provision of confidentiality and integrity guarantees.

  • Data protection, access to sensitive data and understanding the tactics of social engineers

Learning outcomes mapped to assessment criteria

  threshold

40%

 		good

60%

 		excellent

70%

Understand the background to hacking and cracking and the popular terms used

 Can explain the terms black hat and white hat hackers Can also explain the difference between cracking and hacking Can explain in detail the culture and motivations of the aforementioned people

Explain the ‘3 As’ and their appropriate applications within a business and technical context.

 Can understand the terms social engineering and data protection and what issues arise form both Explain policies involved in ensuring data is handled correctly Can give clear examples of all points and explain their desired outcomes

Explain networks/computer systems vulnerabilities

 Can describe common vulnerabilities. Can explain common vulnerabilities including how the issue was created. Explains common vulnerabilities, including cause and selects appropriate methods to mitigate them.

Understand layered Network protections, the rationale for using them and the popular terms used

 Be able to describe several tools used for discovering problems Explain how using these tools could help the administrator secure their system Can explain the possible vulnerabilities networks or systems can have

Explain the basic principles of encryption, confidentiality and integrity.

 Can explain the terms firewalls and IDS and how they differ Able to display a deeper knowledge of the two’s functionality and abilities Can give examples of how both would work together in a network

Understand Computer Ethics & Social Engineering

 Describes ethical factors and methods of social engineering. Describes, using appropriate examples ethical factors and social engineering techniques. Describes ethical factors, argues appropriate cases for actions. Explains social engineering techniques and attacks with supporting theory.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
EXAM Examination

Unseen examination

 50.00
COURSEWORK Reflect and Relate

A written report reflecting on the practical work completed, its worth to the field and the student.

 15.00
COURSEWORK Red/Blue Team Exercise

A report on a security exercise on a given system, from either the red or blue team approach. Students may experiment in groups, but the final report must be individual.

 35.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Laboratory

24 hours over 12 weeks including lab preparation

 24
Lecture

24 hours over 12 weeks

 24
Private study 52

Transferable skills

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
  • Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.
  • Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team
  • Argument - Able to put forward, debate and justify an opinion or a course of action, with an individual or in a wider group setting

Subject specific skills

  • Knowledge and understanding of facts, concepts, principles & theories
  • Use of such knowledge in modelling and design
  • Problem solving strategies
  • Analyse if/how a system meets current and future requirements
  • Deploy theory in design, implementation and evaluation of systems
  • Recognise legal, social, ethical & professional issues
  • Knowledge of information security issues
  • Specify, design or construct computer-based systems
  • Deploy tools effectively
  • Methods, techniques and tools for information modelling, management and security
  • Knowledge of systems architecture
  • Defining problems, managing design process and evaluating outcomes
  • System Design
  • Knowledge and/or understanding of appropriate scientific and engineering principles
  • Knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles
  • Specify, deploy, verify and maintain computer-based systems
  • Principles of appropriate supporting engineering and scientific disciplines

Resources

Courses including this module