COMP SCI 7044 - Computer System Security

North Terrace Campus - Semester 2 - 2015

The course introduces topics in computer and network security research, with focus on current research. Topics covered include security models and policies; Operating Systems security: authentication and authorisation; Application security and malware; Applied cryptography and cryptanalysis; Network security: challenges, attacks and defences; Web and cloud security; Trusted computing.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code COMP SCI 7044
    Course Computer System Security
    Coordinating Unit Computer Science
    Term Semester 2
    Level Postgraduate Coursework
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact Up to 2 hours per week
    Available for Study Abroad and Exchange Y
    Assumed Knowledge Computer Architecture, Operating Systems and Computer Networks are assumed. Additionally, some basic understanding of parsing and parsers and Computer Systems is an advantage. No detailed knowledge of advanced cryptographic systems is required.
    Biennial Course not offered in 2012
    Assessment exam and/or assignments
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Dr Yuval Yarom

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1. Develop familiarity with and understanding of hot issues in computer and network security
    2. Gain hands-on experience with attack and defence techniques
    3. Read and analyse scientific papers and present them in a seminar talk
    4. Develop the basics of scientific communication
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1,2,3
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 1,2,3
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 2
    Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication. 2,3,4
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 2
    A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 1,3
    A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community. 3,4
    An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities. 1,2,3
  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes
    The course “lecture” slots will be used for presenting and discussing research papers on topics in computer systems security. Each student will present one paper. In additions students are expected to write 1/2 page responses to each paper read and to complete a practical group project
    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    Students should expect to devote 10 hours per week to this course. Two to three of those hours are contact hours, the remainder are for research and assessment tasks.
    Learning Activities Summary

    No information currently available.

  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary

    Component  Weighting  Learning outcomes  CBOK Areas
    On-going paper reviews 35% 1,3 1,2,5,6,7,9,10
    Paper presentation 10% 3 4
    Class discussion 5% 1,3 1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
    Project design 5% 1,2,4 1,2,3,4,9,10
    Project progress report 5% 2,4 1,2,3,4,5*,6*,7*,8*,9,10
    Project presentation 15% 2,4 3,4,9,10
    Final project report 25% 2,4 1,2,3,4,5*,6*,7*,8,9,10

    CBOK Legend
    1. Abstraction
    2. Design
    3. Teamwork concepts and issues
    4. Interpersonal communication
    5, Hardware & software
    6. Data & information
    7. Networking
    8. Programming
    9. Security management
    10. Security policy
    * Depends on project choice.
    Assessment Related Requirements
    Students will need to attend most of the “lecture” times, as these are the times for the presentations and discussion.
    Assessment Detail

    No information currently available.

    Submission

    No information currently available.

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
  • Fraud Awareness

    Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student’s disciplinary procedures.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.