Introduction to Network Security from Coursera

The security of computer networks is a key element in cyber security. Computer networking provides the foundational connectivity services that are used for the world wide web, distributed computer applications and services, operations and manufacturing, and national infrastructure.

This course provides understanding of key technologies used in computer networks and infrastructure. This includes protocols, computer networks, data centres, operational technologies that form key infrastructure critical to the success of organisations and services from a local to an international scale. The course discusses vulnerabilities and the exploits that target computer networks, systems, and the Internet infrastructure.

By the end of this course learners will be able to:

1. Show a systematic understanding of digital networks and their operation, including the OSI 7 layer architecture and the TCP/IP protocol stack.

2. Discuss key security threats and risks faced in computer networks.

3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of network security architecture and design rationale of selected protocols, security technologies and how they are used in practice.

4. Identify attack models and analyse vulnerabilities in protocols, network systems, and applications.

5. Demonstrate how these vulnerabilities may be exploited in practice to penetrate a system.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the course and computer networks

In the first week, we will obtain an overview of the course and, in particular, get an overview of communication principles in networks as well as its threats. You will also reflect on your own expectations of what the course will teach. The key concepts for this week are messages, channels and network adversaries.

Network layers

In this week, we will take an in-depth look into the concept of network layering. Furthermore, we will discuss how network communication is performed with lower-layer network technology, such as Ethernet.

The internet protocol

In this week, we will explore the Internet Protocol (IP) that enables communication across several networked systems. We will discuss how IP builds upon the data-link network layer, how IP addresses can be assigned, and how messages can be forwarded.

Large-scale IP networks and message transport

In this week, we will conclude our exploration on the Internet Protocol (IP) that we have started last week. We will discuss how IP operates on a large-scale level and forms the global Internet. Furthermore, we will discuss how we can address messages to applications running on the same system and using the same IP address.

Data streams and application protocols

In this week, we will continue our discussion of the transport layer and learn about the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). Furthermore, we will learn how applications communicate with each other using application protocols.

Secure communication

In our final week, we will see how we can build secure channels that aim for confidentiality and integrity. We will take a closer look at how the widely-used protocol transport layer security (TLS) constructs such channels.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces vital concepts and principles of digital networks and their operation

Examines diverse security threats and risks associated with computer networks

Provides insights into designing effective network security architecture based on industry practices

Delves into vulnerabilities in network protocols, systems, and applications, aiding in threat identification

Explores real-world attack models and demonstrates how vulnerabilities can be exploited

Emphasizes secure communication techniques to ensure confidentiality and integrity in data transmission

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Network Security with these activities:

Review Basic Networking Concepts

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Strengthen your foundation in key networking concepts to enhance your understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Networking Basics

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Review notes or online resources on topics like network topologies, protocols, and addressing.
Complete practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.

Read "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach"

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of computer networking concepts and technologies by reading this foundational text.

View Computer Networking [Global Edition] on Amazon

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Read through each chapter thoroughly.
Take notes and highlight key concepts.
Review the chapter summaries and test your understanding by completing the exercises.

Participate in Peer Group Discussions

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Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, share knowledge, and gain diverse perspectives.

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Join or form a peer group.
Regularly participate in group discussions.
Actively listen to others' ideas and share your own insights.

Five other activities

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Attend a Network Security Workshop

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Gain practical experience in network security by attending a hands-on workshop.

Browse courses on network security

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Research and identify relevant workshops.
Register and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in the hands-on exercises and discussions.

Follow Tutorials on Packet Analysis

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Enhance your understanding of network security by learning how to analyze network packets.

Browse courses on Packet Analysis

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Identify online tutorials or courses on packet analysis.
Set aside dedicated time to work through the tutorials.
Practice analyzing network packets using the tools and techniques learned.

Practice Identifying Network Vulnerabilities

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Develop your ability to identify and assess potential security weaknesses in computer networks.

Browse courses on Network Vulnerabilities

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Find online resources or practice platforms that provide mock network scenarios.
Analyze the provided network configurations and identify potential vulnerabilities.
Document the identified vulnerabilities and suggest mitigation strategies.

Design a Network Security Plan

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Demonstrate your understanding of network security by creating a comprehensive plan to protect a network infrastructure.

Browse courses on network security

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Define the scope and objectives of the network security plan.
Identify and assess potential risks and threats to the network.
Design and document security measures to mitigate identified risks.
Develop a plan for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining the security measures.

Create a Network Security Infographic

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Reinforce your understanding of network security concepts by creating a visually engaging infographic.

Browse courses on network security

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Identify key network security concepts.
Gather relevant data and statistics.
Design and create an eye-catching infographic using visual elements like charts, graphs, and images.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Network Security will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is tasked with protecting an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. An Information Security Analyst must have in-depth knowledge of network security to effectively perform their job. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts, including network protocols, network attacks, and network security technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as an Information Security Analyst, enabling you to stay ahead of the latest threats and keep critical systems secure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Network Security Engineer

A Network Security Engineer designs, implements, and maintains security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. A Network Security Engineer must have a strong understanding of network security principles and technologies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of network security, including network protocols, network attacks, and network security technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Network Security Engineer, enabling you to design, implement, and maintain effective network security solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating cybersecurity risks. A Cybersecurity Analyst must have a deep understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of network security, including network protocols, network attacks, and network security technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Cybersecurity Analyst, enabling you to effectively identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Security Architect

A Security Architect designs and implements security solutions for organizations. A Security Architect must have a deep understanding of security concepts and technologies, including network security. This course provides a comprehensive overview of network security, including network protocols, network attacks, and network security technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Security Architect, enabling you to design and implement effective security solutions for organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect

Security Consultant

A Security Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture. A Security Consultant must have a broad understanding of security concepts and technologies, including network security. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Security Consultant, enabling you to provide expert advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's computer networks and systems. A Network Administrator must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Network Administrator, enabling you to effectively manage and maintain an organization's computer networks and systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

IT Auditor

An IT Auditor reviews and evaluates an organization's IT systems and processes to ensure that they are compliant with security regulations and standards. An IT Auditor must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as an IT Auditor, enabling you to effectively review and evaluate an organization's IT systems and processes.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

System Administrator

A System Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's computer systems. A System Administrator must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a System Administrator, enabling you to effectively manage and maintain an organization's computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for System Administrator

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's database systems. A Database Administrator must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Database Administrator, enabling you to effectively manage and maintain an organization's database systems.

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Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes and maintains computer programs. A Computer Programmer must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Computer Programmer, enabling you to effectively write and maintain computer programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Computer Scientist

A Computer Scientist researches and develops new computer technologies. A Computer Scientist must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Computer Scientist, enabling you to effectively research and develop new computer technologies.

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Information Technology Manager

An Information Technology Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing an organization's IT systems and services. An Information Technology Manager must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as an Information Technology Manager, enabling you to effectively plan, implement, and manage an organization's IT systems and services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Chief Information Officer

A Chief Information Officer is responsible for overseeing an organization's IT strategy and operations. A Chief Information Officer must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Chief Information Officer, enabling you to effectively oversee an organization's IT strategy and operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Information Officer

Chief Technology Officer

A Chief Technology Officer is responsible for leading an organization's technology strategy and development. A Chief Technology Officer must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Chief Technology Officer, enabling you to effectively lead an organization's technology strategy and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Technology Officer

Product Manager

A Product Manager is responsible for defining and managing the development of a product. A Product Manager must have a strong understanding of network security concepts and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in network security concepts and technologies. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a Product Manager, enabling you to effectively define and manage the development of a product.

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Introduction to Network Security

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