The goal of this course is to provide a technical introduction to data networks and network security. The Key concepts and technologies in data networks will be introduced, including layered architectures and topologies. The main elements in information technology networks will be detailed, including routers, switches, gateways, servers, workstations and storage devices. It will be followed by an introduction to network level attacks and various defense mechanisms. Students will learn to mount attacks and defend against them using a variety of software tools, monitoring tools and protocols. Finally, different network security topics will be covered, including encryption, authentication, firewalls and intrusion detection, security management tools and threat scenarios, security policies, legal and ethical issues in cyber and computer crimes.
Fall Only.