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252-1411-00L 6 Credits MSC , WBZ D-ITET , D-INFK , D-MATH

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Security of Wireless Networks

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Srdjan Capkun, Dr. Kari Kostiainen

VVZ CR 4.6

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:30

Abstract

This course discusses physical layer aspects of wireless communication and a wide range of security-related topics in the domain of wireless technologies. It mainly targets computer science students. Though useful, a background in signal processing or physical layer concepts is not required. A basic understanding of security (e.g. as taught in 252-0211.00L Information Security) is recommended.

Objective

After this course, students should be able to describe and classify security goals of and attacks on various wireless networks and technologies, with an emphasis on physical layer aspects.

Content

- Introduction to wireless communication - Physical layer security schemes - Spreading techniques and their application in jamming-resilient communication and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) - Secure ranging with Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) - Security aspects of cellular networks, WiFi, and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)

Resources

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Course Website

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC , WBZ
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: end-of-semester examination
Mode: written 120 minutes
Aids: None

20% exercises and related reports (compulsory continuous performance assessments), 80% final written exam

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Security of Wireless Networks	Tue 14:15-16:00 (ML H 44) 19.12 Date 14:15-17:00 (ML H 44)	2 h weekly
exercise	Security of Wireless Networks	Fri 14:15-16:00 (CAB E 87.2)	1 h weekly
independent project	Security of Wireless Networks includes a semester long project	No time listed	2 h weekly

Offered In

Computer Science Master
- Majors
  - Major in Secure and Reliable Systems
    - Elective Courses
- Minors
  - Minor in Information Security
  - Minor in Networking
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Track: Computers and Networks (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Computers and Networks", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Computers and Networks", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Computers and Networks
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
CAS in Computer Science
- Focus Courses and Electives
Data Science Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2023)
  - Electives
    - Interdisciplinary Electives
DAS in Cyber Security
- Elective Courses
Cyber Security Master
- Field of Specialization
  - Electives