CS 416: Computer and Network Security

Credits: 6

Instructor: Bernard L. Menezes

The course gives the participant a basic introduction to the world of cryptography and network security. Some mathematical preliminaries are needed but the professor gives a basic introduction to them.

Topics covered:

• Preliminary number theory: Modular arithmetic, chinese remainder theorem, group theory, extended Euclid’s algorithm
• Encryption: RSA, AES(AES-128 in particular), Discrete log problem, Baby steps-giant steps algorithm, El Gamal Encryption
• Key exchange protocols: Diffie-Hellman, El Gamal
• Hashing algorithms: SHA-1, HMAC, Birthday attack
• Digital signatures, Digital certificates, Public key infrastructure
• Network security: SQL Injection, XSS attack
• Network protocols: Secret sharing protocols, Kerberos, HTTPS
• Basic network attacks: Parallel session attack, Mitnick attack, TCP SYN attack, DDoS Attack
• Intrusion detection systems
• System security: Buffer overflow attack, viruses, malwares

Grading policy:

• 3 Quizzes (15% x 3)
• Endsem (40%)
• 3 Homework assignments to be done in groups (5% x 3)

The course was covered at a decent pace keeping in mind everyone’s comfort level. The instructor was concerned about the students’ learning and answered questions in detail. The professor kept the class interactive as well. The assignments gave more insight into the topics covered in class. Demonstrations by TAs on various tools and attacks were also really helpful.

The prescribed textbook was Network Security and Cryptography authored by the same professor.

The course was good in general, but a bit slow. Anyone interested in learning the subject should definitely take take this course.

Attendance was optional.