COMP 4108 (Fall 2012): Computer Systems Security

Office calendar course description (from here): Introduction to information security in computer and communications systems, including network, operating systems, web and software security. Passwords, authentication applications, privacy, data integrity, anonymity, secure email, IP security, security infrastructures, firewalls, viruses, intrusion detection, network attacks. Lectures three hours a week.
Essential Course Details Marking Scheme: (dates are firm; please plan in advance)
30%: Test 1 (Oct.10, in class). Includes Oct.3 lecture. These slides may be of help in studying. Good luck!
30%: Test 2 (Nov.14, in class)
30%: Computer Assignments/Lab Modules (4 labs at 5% each = 20%) plus Final Lab Module (10%, due Dec.3). Students are expected to regularly check the COMP4108 lab/assignment site for details and due dates for the computer assignments (lab modules). Assignment lab#1 is available as of Sept.19 and is due Monday Oct.1.
10%: Reading Responses (3) - see explanation below.

Explanation of Reading Responses. For each specified research paper, a one-page, hard-copy critque must be handed it at the start of the specified class, followed by class discussion of the paper. The response is to include a 2-3 sentence abstract of the paper rephrased in your own words, plus three brief criticisms of the reading (perceived shortcomings, points you disagree with, or suggestions for improvement). Support your criticisms as best possible within the available space.

University Policies. For information on university policies regarding academic integrity/plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, academic accommodation related to disabilities, religious obligation, preganancy obligation and medical certificates, see the standard university template information as found on this course outline page. In addition COMP 4108 has a Course-specific addendum re: Unethical Behaviour as follows. Any student submitting work including uncited portions originating from someone else, is subject to a mark of minus 100% (-100%) on the entire work item. For example, if an assignment is worth 10%, the 10% is lost plus an additional 10% penalty, making the best possible course mark 80%. If the infraction involves copying from another student, then both students may be penalized. Each student must write up submitted work individually unless explicitly allowed otherwise per official instructions, for example in group-based assignments. Harsher penalties following from any standard university policies will be pursued where appropriate.

Additional Information and Class Attendance. Students seeking optional textbooks supplementary to the offically specified course text may consider looking at Stallings and Brown (2007), Gollman (2006), and/or other books on this list. Topics covered will be largely based on chapters in the course textbook, substantially supplemented by additional material from the instructor as presented during individual classes. Reading responses require participation in the class. Students are thus expected to attend all classes.

Topics Outline. Topics studied are drawn from those in the course description (see top of page) and course text, as noted under "Additional Information". Topics and corresponding textbook chapters will be posted here as the term progresses, adjusted and updated on an ongoing basis.
Last updated: November 28, 2012. Send comments to: paulv (insert @ here) scs.carleton.ca.