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227-0577-00L 6 Credits BSC , DS , MSC , WBZ D-ITET , D-INFK

Network Security

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Bernhard Plattner, Dr. Stefan Frei, Dr. Thomas Peter Dübendorfer
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:24:42

Abstract

This lecture discusses fundamental concepts and technologies in the area of network security. Several case studies illustrate the dark side of the Internet and explain how to protect against such threats. A hands-on computer lab that accompanies the lecture gives a deep dive on firewalls, penetration testing and intrusion detection.

Objective

• Students are aware of current threats that Internet services and networked devices face and can explain appropriate countermeasures. • Students can identify and assess known vulnerabilities in a software system that is connected to the Internet. • Students know fundamental network security concepts. • Students have an in-depth understanding of important security technologies. • Students know how to configure a real firewall and know some penetration testing tools from their own experience.

Content

Risk management and the vulnerability lifecycle of software and networked services are discussed. Threats like denial of service, spam, worms, and viruses are studied in-depth. Fundamental security related concepts like identity, availability, authentication and secure channels are introduced. State of the art technologies like secure shell, network and transport layer security, intrusion detection and prevention systems, cross-site scripting, secure implementation techniques and more for securing the Internet and web applications are presented. Several case studies illustrate the dark side of the Internet and explain how to protect against current threats. A hands-on computer lab that accompanies the lecture gives a deep dive on firewalls, penetration testing and intrusion detection. This lecture is intended for students with an interest in securing Internet services and networked devices. Students are assumed to have knowledge in networking as taught in the Communication Networks lecture. This lecture and the oral exam are held in English.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , DS , MSC , WBZ
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 15 minutes
Die Prüfung kann auch auf Deutsch abgelegt werden.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Network Security
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (ETF C 1)
2 h weekly
exercise Network Security
  • Tue 09:15-10:00 (ETF C 1)
1 h weekly
practical/laboratory course Network Security
ETF B5
  • By Appointment None-None
1 h weekly

Offered In