Basics of Network Security

Computer networks are central to modern digital communication technologies, however, network security is constantly under attack from both external and internal sources. This course covers topics such as active and passive attacks on networks, encryption, symmetric and asymmetric key systems, authentication using certification authorities, and access control using passwords and firewalls.

Target Audience
This course will be of interest to IT professionals who want to learn more about network security or students who are interested in a career as an IT or network administrator.

Introduction to Network Security

• Vulnerability to Threat and Attack
• Importance of Effective Network Security Strategies
• Typical Network Security When Using Your Computer

Threats to Communication Networks

• The Development of Network Security Measures
• Terminology about Data Storage, Processing or Transmission
• Digital Dangers – Audio File
• Passive Attacks and Active Attacks
• Potential Network Vulnerabilities
• Tapping into Transmission Media

Role of Encryption in Network Security

• Principles of Encryption
• Overview Symmetric Key Systems
• The Components of a Symmetric Key System
• Asymmetric Key Systems
• Symmetric and Asymmetric Key Systems
• Vulnerability to Attack

Implementing Encryption in Networks

• Link Layer, Network Layer and Application Layer Encryption
• Encryption and Integrity
• Hash Values
• Introduction to Freshness

Authentication and Access Control

• Overview of Authentication Methods
• Certification Authorities and Digital Certificates
• Access Control – Passwords
• Access Control – Firewalls
• Packet-Filtering Router
• Application Level and Circuit Level Gateways
• Examples of Firewall Implementation