Introduction to Cybersecurity
Graduate Course, UAIC, Faculty of Computer Science, 2023
Course Overview
This graduate-level course provides a comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity, covering fundamental principles, threat analysis, cryptographic techniques, network security, and ethical hacking methodologies.
Learning Objectives
- Understand fundamental cybersecurity principles and threat landscapes
- Master cryptographic techniques and their applications
- Analyze network security protocols and vulnerabilities
- Apply ethical hacking techniques for security assessment
- Develop incident response and risk management strategies
Course Topics
Module 1: Fundamentals (Weeks 1-3)
- Information security principles (CIA triad)
- Threat modeling and risk assessment
- Security frameworks and standards
Module 2: Cryptography (Weeks 4-6)
- Symmetric and asymmetric cryptography
- Hash functions and digital signatures
- Public key infrastructure (PKI)
Module 3: Network Security (Weeks 7-9)
- Network protocols and vulnerabilities
- Firewalls and intrusion detection systems
- VPNs and secure communications
Module 4: Ethical Hacking (Weeks 10-12)
- Penetration testing methodologies
- Vulnerability assessment tools
- Social engineering techniques
Module 5: Incident Response (Weeks 13-14)
- Digital forensics basics
- Incident handling procedures
- Recovery and business continuity
Required Materials
- Textbook: “Security in Computing” by Pfleeger & Pfleeger
- Software: Kali Linux, Wireshark, Metasploit
- Hardware: Raspberry Pi for lab exercises
Assessment Structure
- Lab Exercises: 35% (Weekly hands-on labs)
- Midterm Exam: 25% (Theoretical concepts)
- Final Project: 30% (Security assessment of a real system)
- Participation: 10% (Class discussions and presentations)
Lab Environment
Students will work with a dedicated cybersecurity lab featuring:
- Isolated network environment
- Virtual machines with various operating systems
- Professional security tools and software
- Capture-the-flag (CTF) challenges
Prerequisites
- Solid understanding of computer networks
- Basic programming experience (Python preferred)
- Familiarity with Linux command line
Resources
Contact Information
Email: bprelipcean_at_info.uaic.ro
Office Hours: Mondays 3:00-5:00 PM, Room 115
Lab Sessions: Fridays 2:00-4:00 PM, Cybersecurity Lab