CS155: Computer and Network Security

Overview

Spring 2016

Description

The course covers principles of computer systems and network security. We will discuss various attack techniques and how to defend against them. Topics include network attacks and defenses, operating system holes, web security, e-mail, botnet, malware, social engineering attacks, privacy, and digital rights management. Course projects will focus on building reliable code and understanding attacks. The course is intended for senior undergraduates and first year graduate students.

Prerequisites

The course requires an understanding of operating systems, networking protocols, and a basic understanding of programming languages. Programming projects will be done primarily in C, JavaScript, and PHP, but other languages may be needed.

Pre-requisites: CS110 (Principles of Computer Systems)

Textbook Information

There is no textbook for the class.
Instead, we will use research papers posted on the course syllabus page page for every lecture.

Sections

  • There will occasionally be a section Friday 3:15-4:05pm in Gates B01.
  • Attendance at the sections is optional.

Homework Assignments

  • There will be two written homework assignments and three programming projects.
  • You may collaborate when solving the written assignments, however when writing up the solutions you must do so on your own. 
  • All programming projects can be done in pairs.
  • Each programming project will be split into two separate deliverables. The second part is usually due a week after the first.
  • You must submit all assigned work electronically. Submission instructions will be provided.
  • Extensions:  Each student has a total of 72 extension hours throughout the quarter. This automatic extension can be spent in units of 24 hours on any of the assignments and projects. Please mark the submission time for any late assignment.
  • Homework and projects will be due at 11:59pm on the specified deadline.
  • It is an honor code violation to consult solutions from previous CS155s.

Exams

There will be a final exam in the regularly scheduled time slot during final exam week. No midterm exam.

Grading

Final placement in the class will be determined by the following formula:

0.25 H + 0.5 P + 0.25 F

  • H is your average score on the two written homework assignments.
  • P is the weighted average grade on the three programming projects.
  • F is your final exam score.