Recent times have seen a proliferation of digital devices and the subsequent concern for the security of information. This unit introduces students to the basic principles and practices of computer and information security. Focus will be on the software, operating system and network security techniques with detailed analysis of real-world examples. Topics include cryptography, authentication, software and operating system security, network security, mobile security, and legal and ethical issues. In addition, the unit promotes and strengthens important generic skills, such as communication, analysis and inquiry, problem solving, independent and group working, and professionalism and social responsibility. This unit may be cotaught with 6697 Computer and Network Security PG.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will:
1. Describe basic cryptographic functionality, including symmetric ciphers, public key encryption, and digital signatures;
2. Evaluate the security of systems that use cryptography and secure communication techniques;
3. Identify the vulnerability of information systems and justify specific security technologies, settings, and parameters that can improve system security design;
4. Describe existing secure network architectures by applying security technologies such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and malicious software scanners; and
5. Discuss how privacy and social engineering issues can impact system design.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - take pride in their professional and personal integrity
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
2. UC graduates are global citizens - adopt an informed and balanced approach across professional and international boundaries
2. UC graduates are global citizens - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - make creative use of technology in their learning and professional lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - think globally about issues in their profession
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - be self-aware
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - evaluate and adopt new technology
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development

Prerequisites

4483 Software Technology 1.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

6697 Computer and Network Security PG.

Equivalent units

None.

Assumed knowledge

IT skills commensurate with advanced study of information technology are assumed.