Information Technology 455
I. Course Title: Applied Cryptography and Network Security
II. Course Number: ITEC 455
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: ITEC 345, and either ITEC 350 or both ITEC 205 and ITEC 315.
V. Course Description:
Threats and vulnerabilities in computer networks, cryptography and its application to network security mechanisms, secure network protocols, and network intrusion detection systems.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
Topics include:
- Secret and public key cryptography.
- Modes of operation.
- Hashes and message digests.
- Public key infrastructure.
- Threats and attacks on networking infrastructure.
- Analyzing networking protocols for security flaws.
- Secure authentication protocols and security standards (e.g., Kerberos, SSL/TLS).
- Securing networks: defense in depth, device security, perimeter security, wireless security.
- Incident response.
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Projects that involve configuration of network security mechanisms and/or use of networking packet filters will be given. Students will also work on problems in cryptography and programming projects in Web Security.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
Students who complete the course will be able to:
- Identify and describe the working and application of various cryptographic algorithms and mechanisms including secret and public key cryptographic algorithms, modes of operation, hashes and message digests.
- Identify and describe vulnerabilities, threats and attacks on a networking infrastructure.
- Analyze common network protocols for security issues and describe standards such as Kerberos, public key infrastructure (PKI) and IPsec.
- Configure and/or apply network security controls such as firewalls, virtual private networks and intrusion detection systems.
- Respond to network security incidents.
- Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively.
- Demonstrate the ability to work in a team based environment.
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Evaluation may be based on several projects, problems, and at least two examinations. The instructor may also use quizzes or other assessment strategies.
Other Course Information: None
Review and Approval
September 9, 2008 New Course Arthur Carter, Chair
April 12, 2018
March 01, 2021