Week 1: Introduction

In this module we will be looking at the security of computer systems from a computer science viewpoint. We will cover general cyber security concepts, and take a detailed look at some of the issues that can occur during software development.

This module introduces students to the concepts and practical considerations of creating and evaluating secure computer systems. Systems will be analysed at both the application level and at the level of interconnected devices in architectures suck as client-server and cloud-based, with attention given to security-by-design, security legislation and regulation and the associated products and services.

This week we will have an introduction to the module, and take a look at why security is interesting for computer scientists. We will have an overview of the core concepts behind security.

This Weeks Materials

• What is Security
• Fundamental Security Concepts
• Types of Attack, and who gets attacked

Dan, There is a lot of stuff here What's important ?

It might seem like a lot, but its mostly short 5 minute reads. I would rather you read it all, but its your decision. So I will highlight the key topics like this. This is the stuff I expect you to know to pass the module, the extra stuff is for those who are interested in the topic, and want to increase their chance of a first.

Key Topics

• What is Cyber Security
• Security Concepts: Three Pillars of Cyber Security
• Security Concepts: The CIA Triangle

Lab Tasks

In this weeks Lab we are going to be looking at some examples of hacks on organisations. You will look at how the attack occurred, then discuss which aspects of cyber security were the issue.