Introduction to Computer Security

Software > Computer Software > Educational Software Royal Holloway, University of London & University of London

Course Overview

What You'll Learn

  • The purpose of this short four-week course is to introduce the topic of computer system security.
  • We initially look at a short basic introduction to computer system core components and functions and then extend this to consider a variety of topics from hardware to applications.
  • Throughout we provide pointers to openly available materials for background and further reading to explore the topics.

The purpose of this short four-week course is to introduce the topic of computer system security. We initially look at a short basic introduction to computer system core components and functions and then extend this to consider a variety of topics from hardware to applications. Throughout we provide pointers to openly available materials for background and further reading to explore the topics. We refer to the Cyber Security Body of Knowledge (CyBOK) as a reference for cyber security knowledge, alongside other sources that are widely available. In total, we have four weeks that cover this introduction to computer systems and security. No prior programming nor advanced mathematical knowledge Is required. There are a few examples of pseudocode and some basic computer logic (AND, OR, XOR, etc.) in our Week 1 Introduction to computer systems, but these are not essential to completing the course. In other lessons, we introduce basic concepts and provide pointers to online resources. The course includes active learning through four lab sessions. The first lab introduces the Linux operating system in general by exploring the Linux desktop and applications provided in the Coursera lab environment hosted in the AWS cloud. The second lab looks at the Linux command line and explores some of the file system and gathers system information, for example to explore processes. The third lab explores the network information, the system connectivity, and uses some Python scripts and Wireshark to examine the TCP and UDP transport protocols and the web/HTTP application protocol. Lastly we explore more about the network services using the Nmap tool to explore the network services in the system. The course is designed to provide a wide introduction to computer security, by outlining computer systems, including the operating system, programs, data and networking. We discuss some of the issues in computer security and introduce some of the vulnerabilities and threats as we progress through the four weeks. We include some optional readings and videos from a number of sources, including professional resources and vendor materials for additional study.

Course FAQs

Is this an accredited online course?

Accreditation for 'Introduction to Computer Security' is determined by the provider, Royal Holloway, University of London & University of London. For online college courses or degree programs, we strongly recommend you verify the accreditation status directly on the provider's website to ensure it meets your requirements.

Can this course be used for continuing education credits?

Many of the courses listed on our platform are suitable for professional continuing education. However, acceptance for credit varies by state and licensing board. Please confirm with your board and {course.provider} that this specific course qualifies.

How do I enroll in this online school program?

To enroll, click the 'ENROLL NOW' button on this page. You will be taken to the official page for 'Introduction to Computer Security' on the Royal Holloway, University of London & University of London online class platform, where you can complete your registration.