BTN710 - Information Security

Outline info
Semester
School
Last revision date 2023-05-29 00:42:47.567
Last review date 2023-07-31 00:15:09.521


Subject Title
Information Security

Subject Description
With the ever-expanding use of the internet there has been an increased need for security at all levels within data communications. This course provides the technical foundation required to understand the security concerns faced by network administrators, technical support staff and end users in today's data communications environments. Current security solutions that address issues such as Authentication and Authorization, Data Integrity, Non Repudiation, Privacy/Confidentiality, and Availability of Service will be examined through a combination of lectures and hands-on labs.

Credit Status
1 credit (3 units)
Required for BSD - Bachelor of Technology (Software Development)

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

  • explain the function of various security tools for systems adminisrators and program developers
  • document the methods used to distribute workload among group members
  • create diagrams that illustrate basic network security concepts
  • apply appropriate network and information security terminology in lab exercises
  • explain the basic principles of cryptography
  • list and explain several types of attacks that a network may be subject to
  • explain the importance of a security policy, as it pertains to intruder detection, viruses, and system backkups
  • discuss security as it applies to VPNs
  • explain cryptographic techniques including encryption, hashing, message authenticaion, PKI and digital signatures
  • discuss the operation of firewalls, and various tunneling protocols
  • explain networking security concepts to various audiences using appropriate terminology
  • document group decisions in selecting and researching a topic dealing with network security
  • explain email security applications such as PGP and S/MIME
  • discuss network security and security standards as they apply to the Internet
  • explain various authentication systems
  • explain web security applications such as SSL and SET
  • explain basic network security concepts
  • synthesize the results of the group member's efforts into a final product
  • conduct guided research into selected areas of network security, using both Internet and print sources
  • explain various methods used to secure enterprise data networks that are connected to Public Data Networks
  • explain the importance of risk analysis and assessment in the Information Security Life Cycle

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.

Prerequisite(s)
BTP405 and BTN415

Topic Outline

  • Information Security, Business Awareness and Practices
  • Hackers, Attacks and Tools
  • Network Security -- Authentication Methods
  • Network Security -- Firewalls and Methods
  • Risk Assessment and Analysis
  • Security Policy Development and International Standards
  • Cryptographic Techniques
  • Secure Technologies and PKI
  • Building Secure Application
  • Building Secure Web Applications
  • Code Review and Testing

Mode of Instruction
Modes: Self-study preparation, in-class lecture, in-class exercises, and hands-on activity
Hours per week: 3
Room configurations: Classroom, and computer lab
Typical scheduling pattern: Fall term

Prescribed Texts
Corporate Computer Security, Fourth Edition
by Randall Boyle and Raymond Panko
ISBN 978-0133545197
Published by Prentice Hall

Reference Material
Course web site, on MySeneca, has links to other online documents

Required Supplies
SSD external mass storage device, plug-in USB 3.0, minimum 240 GB.

Student Progression and Promotion Policy
http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/student-progression-and-promotion-policy.html

Grading Policyhttp://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/grading-policy.html

A+ 90%  to  100%
A 80%  to  89%
B+ 75%  to  79%
B 70%  to  74%
C+ 65%  to  69%
C 60%  to  64%
D+ 55%  to  59%
D 50%  to  54%
F 0%    to  49% (Not a Pass)
OR
EXC Excellent
SAT Satisfactory
UNSAT Unsatisfactory

For further information, see a copy of the Academic Policy, available online (http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academics-and-student-services.html) or at Seneca's Registrar's Offices. (https://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/registrar.html).


Modes of Evaluation
•            Pre-meeting self-assessment (3%)
•            Post-meeting self-assessment (6%)
•            Class participation (6%)
•            Written/Oral Quizzes (15%)
•            Group Assignment (20%)
•            Individual Assignment (15%)
•            Weblog (5%)
•            Labs (20%)
•            Final Exam (10%)

Academic Support and Expectations
Missed Tests / Presentations / In-Class Assignments
Students who miss scheduled tests, presentations, or in-class or online assignments will receive a grade of zero.  If there are valid reasons for missing the test, presentation, or in-class assignment, the student MUST:
a)         Contact the professor or student advisor by email prior to the start time of the test, presentation, or in-class or online assignment, and
b)         Provide documentation where appropriate.
At the professor’s discretion, a make-up test/in-class assignment or new date for the presentation may be granted or the value of the test may be added to a subsequent test or final exam. 
 
 
Participation in Online Courses
Consistent online access is important for success in this subject. You are responsible for all online material and assignments; in addition, you need to be checking your Seneca e-mail on a daily basis for updates and other related information. While weekly updates and related e-mails will be provided, it is your responsibility to keep up with the content and maintain an active online presence.
Considerate online conduct, adequate preparation, and constructive online participation will be expected from each student and will enhance your academic experience and that of your fellow students. In particular, you are asked to be prompt, courteous, responsible, and collaborative, where relevant.
 
Learning Centre
The Learning Centre offers academic support to all Seneca students in the form of one-on-one tutoring, small group tutoring, and workshops and can be located at either the Newnham, Markham, York, or King campus.  Students can visit The Learning Centre in person to book an appointment or watch a tutorial on booking a tutoring appointment online at www.senecapolytechnic.ca/learningcentres.  
 
Dropping a Subject
There are two deadlines for dropping this subject.  If you drop by Day 10 of the semester, the subject will not appear on your transcript.  If you drop by the last drop date, the subject will appear on your transcript with a grade of DNC.  To drop, please notify your professor, complete a “Timetable Change Form,” and return it to Registration by the deadline.  Discuss any possible negative consequences of dropping the subject with your academic coordinator or student advisor.

Approved by: Kathy Dumanski