NEW Syllabus of Record

COSC 316 Cybersecurity Basics

            0 lab hours

3 lectures hours

3 credits

3c-0l-3sh

I. Course Description                                                                                                      

                                                                                   

COSC 316   Cybersecurity Basics                                      3c-0l-3sh   

 

Prerequisites:  COSC 110 or equivalent programming course, junior standing or permission of instructor.      

                                                                                   

Provides an introduction to the theory and concepts of computer security in networked systems.  The course will look at security issues and policies with regard to hardware, software development, databases, operating systems and networks as well as the use of encryption. The more common attacks on systems will be covered.  Vulnerability assessment tools and techniques for defending systems will be explored in various projects.   

                       

II. Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the students will:

1.  model the security risks in a network.

2.  write a suitable set of security policies for different scenarios.

3.  apply various access control techniques. 

4.  become familiar with the basic  tools and techniques used by hackers to attack systems.

5.  assess network and system  vulnerabilities to these attacks and learn countermeasures.

6.  log data on simulated attacks and analyze the logs and other audit controls. 

7.  gain skill in cyberforensics.

8.  be familiar with  existing and proposed legislation related to all types of cybercrime.

9.  be aware of  the importance of ethical conduct.

 

III. Course Outline 

A. Major categories of threats  (Attack)                                                               2 weeks

 

B.  Network attacks/access controls                                                                   1 week

 

C.  Security goals/policies.                                                                                 1 week

 

D.  Security in networks and distributed systems  (Defend)                                    2 weeks

 

E. Audit controls, Logging and log analysis  (Convict)                                            1 week

 

F.  Basic Encryption and Decryption /Protocols and Practices.                              2 weeks

 

G. Program security.                                                                                          1 week

 

H.  Protection in General Purpose Operating Systems                                          1 week

           

I.  Database/web security                                                                                   1 week

 

J.  Legal Issues in Computer Security                                                                  1 week

 

K. Ethical Issues in Computer Security                                                                1 week

 


Total=                                                                   14 weeks (including two class tests)

 

IV. Evaluation Methods

1.       Classroom activities and exercises: 30%. There will be graded assignments involving hands-on exercises or problem solving in the classroom. Outside class readings are required in association with these activities.

 

2.       Assignments: 30%.  Students will have 3 research papers to complete outside of class time.

 

3.       Exams and quizzes. 40%. Students will be evaluated on their understanding of the concepts presented using short essay questions on the readings and class material.   There will be several quizzes (collectively counting 10%), a mid-term exam (15%) and a final exam (15%).

 

4.       Grading Scale. The standard grading scale will be used.  90%+ =A; 80-89%=B; 70-79%=C; 60-69%=D; <60%=F.