CS449: Introduction to Computer Security

Credits: 3

Catalog Description

The course will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of computer security, and will cover both general theoretical aspects as well as applied methods of computer security. The course will address the general concepts of confidentiality, integrity and availability of digital information, and will focus on aspects such as: risks and vulnerabilities; models and policies for access control; program security - buffer overflow attacks, malware, viruses; browser security; authentication and authorization; encryption; and an overview of applied data, operating system and network security (with emphasis on Internet security). The course will also address the aspect of privacy, which is tightly related to security and is becoming increasingly important in today's digital society.

Current & Upcoming Offerings

2025-2026

Fall 2025 1 section
Section Schedule / Time Instructor Location
01
MW 04:00PM - 05:15PM
Wan, Yinxin
M03-0407
Spring 2026 1 section
Section Schedule / Time Instructor Location
01
MW 05:30PM - 06:45PM
Wan, Yinxin
M02-0423

Prerequisites

Introductory course in computer security for advanced undergraduates covering ethics, privacy, and social impacts of computing.