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Professor Peter Komisarczuk, Professor Keith M. Martin, and Dr Jorge Blasco Alis
In this course you will explore information security through some introductory material and gain an appreciation of the scope and context around the subject. This includes a brief introduction to cryptography, security management and network and computer...
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In this course you will explore information security through some introductory material and gain an appreciation of the scope and context around the subject. This includes a brief introduction to cryptography, security management and network and computer security that allows you to begin the journey into the study of information security and develop your appreciation of some key information security concepts. The course concludes with a discussion around a simple model of the information security industry and explores skills, knowledge and roles so that you can determine and analyse potential career opportunities in this developing profession and consider how you may need to develop personally to attain your career goals. After completing the course you will have gained an awareness of key information security principles regarding information, confidentiality, integrity and availability. You will be able to explain some of the key aspects of information risk and security management, in addition, summarise some of the key aspects in computer and network security, including some appreciation of threats, attacks, exploits and vulnerabilities. You will also gain an awareness of some of the skills, knowledge and roles/careers opportunities within the information security industry.
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Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides foundational knowledge in information security, catering to beginners
Presents a comprehensive overview of information security concepts
Introduces key principles of information security, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability
Covers essential aspects of computer and network security, including threats, attacks, exploits, and vulnerabilities
Provides insights into information security industry roles and career opportunities
Instructed by experienced professors who are recognized in the field of information security

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Reviews summary

Infosec 101: careers and context

This Information Security: Context and Introduction course is designed to give students a basic understanding of information security and the career opportunities it offers. The course covers a wide range of topics, including the history of information security, the different types of information security threats, security management, network security, ethical hacking, and information security careers. The course is taught by experienced instructors, contains valuable readings, quizzes, and discussions. Students who complete this course will have a solid foundation in information security and will be well-prepared to pursue a career in this field.
Course features experienced instructors.
"The course is taught by experienced instructors"
Provides a broad overview of the infosec industry.
"You will also gain an awareness of some of the skills, knowledge and roles/careers opportunities within the information security industry."
Helps students explore infosec careers.
"The course concludes with a discussion around a simple model of the information security industry and explores skills, knowledge and roles so that you can determine and analyse potential career opportunities in this developing profession and consider how you may need to develop personally to attain your career goals."
Students learn basic infosec principles concerning information confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
"After completing the course you will have gained an awareness of key information security principles regarding information, confidentiality, integrity and availability."
"You will be able to explain some of the key aspects of information risk and security management"
Although most rate the course positively, there is some dissatisfaction with the pacing of the course and level of engagement.
"The course took more weeks than expected"
"The third week and fourth week's instructor should not be teaching classes in English"

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 Information Security: Context and Introduction with these activities:
Review of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
Reinforces the fundamental principles of information security (CIA triad).
Browse courses on Information Security
Show steps
  • Review materials on the CIA triad.
  • Summarize the key concepts and their importance in information security.
Security Discussion Group
Fosters peer-to-peer learning and discussion of current information security topics.
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Show steps
  • Join or start a study group or discussion forum to engage with peers on information security topics.
Review computer science and cryptography fundamentals
Prepare for success by refreshing your computer science and cryptography knowledge, ensuring you have a strong basis for the upcoming course content.
Show steps
  • Review introductory computer science concepts like data structures, algorithms, and complexity analysis.
  • Refresh your understanding of basic cryptography principles, including encryption, decryption, and key management.
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Review 'Introduction to Information Security'
Helps build a foundational understanding of information security principles.
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3 of the book.
  • Take notes on key concepts and definitions.
  • Summarize the main points of each chapter.
Personal Security Plan
Promotes self-awareness and proactive measures to protect personal information.
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Show steps
  • Create a personal security plan that outlines measures to protect personal data and devices.
Security Awareness Poster
Enhances understanding of social engineering techniques and how to protect against them.
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Show steps
  • Design a poster that highlights common security threats and best practices.
Follow tutorials on network security and defense mechanisms
Expand your understanding of network security by following guided tutorials, enhancing your knowledge of network protocols and defense strategies.
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Show steps
  • Seek out tutorials on network security concepts, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access control.
  • Explore tutorials that demonstrate how to implement network defense mechanisms to protect against common attacks.
Engage in peer discussions on information security issues
Enhance your understanding of information security through peer discussions, sharing insights, and learning from diverse perspectives.
Browse courses on Best Practices
Show steps
  • Find a study group or online forum where you can connect with other learners interested in information security.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge.
  • Engage in debates and explore different viewpoints on information security issues.
Cryptography Drills
Strengthens the understanding of cryptographic algorithms and their applications.
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Show steps
  • Solve practice problems on encryption and decryption using various algorithms.
  • Implement cryptography algorithms in a programming language.
Network Security Tutorials
Provides hands-on experience in configuring and managing network security devices.
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Show steps
  • Follow online tutorials on setting up and configuring firewalls.
  • Practice configuring intrusion detection systems.
Attend a workshop on information security best practices
Gain practical knowledge and insights into information security best practices by attending a workshop led by industry experts.
Show steps
  • Research and identify workshops that align with your learning goals.
  • Register for a workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
  • Take notes and ask questions to enhance your understanding.
Practice solving information security problems
Solidify your understanding of information security concepts by practicing problem-solving in realistic scenarios, enhancing your analytical and decision-making skills.
Browse courses on Vulnerability Assessment
Show steps
  • Find practice problems or exercises related to information security, such as vulnerability assessments or risk management.
  • Attempt to solve the problems using the concepts learned in the course.
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Information Security Workshop
Offers practical experience in identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities.
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Show steps
  • Attend an information security workshop that focuses on ethical hacking or penetration testing.
Volunteer at an IT Security Organization
Provides real-world experience in information security operations.
Browse courses on Cybersecurity
Show steps
  • Volunteer at an IT security organization to gain practical experience.
Create a presentation on a specific information security topic
Deepen your understanding of an information security topic by researching, organizing, and presenting your findings, enhancing your communication and critical thinking skills.
Browse courses on Security Protocols
Show steps
  • Choose a specific information security topic that interests you.
  • Research the topic thoroughly, gathering information from credible sources.
  • Organize your findings into a logical presentation structure.
  • Create visual aids to support your presentation.
  • Practice delivering your presentation effectively.

Career center

Learners who complete Information Security: Context and Introduction will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. A successful Information Security Analyst must have the technical skills to implement and manage security measures, as well as the ability to identify and respond to security threats. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Information Security Analysts to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Security Architect
A Security Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's security infrastructure. A successful Security Architect must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work with other IT professionals to implement security solutions. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Security Architects to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Security Engineer
A Security Engineer is responsible for implementing and maintaining security measures for an organization's computer systems and networks. A successful Security Engineer must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work with other IT professionals to implement security solutions. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Security Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Security Consultant
A Security Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture. A successful Security Consultant must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with clients. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Security Consultants to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Security Manager
A Security Manager is responsible for overseeing an organization's security program. A successful Security Manager must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to manage a team of security professionals. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Security Managers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is responsible for overseeing an organization's entire security program. A successful CISO must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to manage a team of security professionals and communicate effectively with senior management. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help CISOs to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Penetration Tester
A Penetration Tester is responsible for identifying vulnerabilities in an organization's computer systems and networks. A successful Penetration Tester must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to think like an attacker. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Penetration Testers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Incident Responder
An Incident Responder is responsible for responding to security incidents and breaches. A successful Incident Responder must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Incident Responders to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Risk Analyst
A Risk Analyst is responsible for assessing and managing risks to an organization's security. A successful Risk Analyst must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to analyze data and make recommendations. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Risk Analysts to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Forensics Analyst
A Forensics Analyst is responsible for investigating computer crimes and security incidents. A successful Forensics Analyst must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to analyze evidence and write reports. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course provides a foundation in the principles of information security, including cryptography, security management, and network and computer security. This course can help Forensics Analysts to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Database Administrator (DBA)
A Database Administrator (DBA) is responsible for managing and maintaining databases. A successful DBA must have a deep understanding of database principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work in a team environment. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course may be helpful for DBAs who want to learn more about security principles and technologies. This course can help DBAs to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in roles that involve security.
Network Engineer
A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. A successful Network Engineer must have a deep understanding of networking principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work in a team environment. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course may be helpful for Network Engineers who want to learn more about security principles and technologies. This course can help Network Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in roles that involve security.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. A successful Software Engineer must have a deep understanding of computer science principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work in a team environment. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course may be helpful for Software Engineers who want to learn more about security principles and technologies. This course can help Software Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in roles that involve security.
Information Assurance Analyst
An Information Assurance Analyst is responsible for ensuring that an organization's information systems are secure. A successful Information Assurance Analyst must have a deep understanding of security principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work in a team environment. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course may be helpful for Information Assurance Analysts who want to learn more about security principles and technologies. This course can help Information Assurance Analysts to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles.
Information Technology (IT) Auditor
An Information Technology (IT) Auditor is responsible for auditing an organization's IT systems and controls. A successful IT Auditor must have a deep understanding of IT principles and technologies, as well as the ability to work in a team environment. The Information Security: Context and Introduction course may be helpful for IT Auditors who want to learn more about security principles and technologies. This course can help IT Auditors to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in roles that involve security.

Reading list

We've selected 19 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Information Security: Context and Introduction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information security principles and practices, covering topics such as cryptography, network security, access control, and security management. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of information security.
Widely used textbook in computer security courses, providing a comprehensive overview of the field. It covers a wide range of topics, from cryptography to network security to operating system security, and is known for its clear and thorough explanations.
Is designed to help prepare for the CISSP certification exam, which widely recognized credential in the field of information security. It covers all of the domains tested on the exam, including security and risk management, asset security, security assessment and testing, and security operations.
Provides a comprehensive guide to secure coding practices, covering topics such as input validation, error handling, and memory management. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the development of secure software.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security analysis, covering topics such as threat modeling, vulnerability assessment, and risk management. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the analysis and evaluation of security systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information security risk management, covering topics such as risk identification, assessment, and mitigation. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the management of information security risks.
Provides a deep dive into firewalls and intrusion detection systems, two essential components of network security. It covers topics such as firewall design and implementation, intrusion detection techniques, and security monitoring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security, covering topics such as encryption algorithms, network protocols, and security vulnerabilities. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.
Provides a practical, hands-on approach to network security, covering topics such as network protocols, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. It is written in a clear and accessible style, making it a good choice for beginners or those looking to gain practical experience in network security.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of cybersecurity, covering topics such as network security, cryptography, and malware analysis. It is written in a clear and accessible style, making it a good choice for beginners or those looking for a refresher on the basics of cybersecurity
Provides a comprehensive overview of security in computing, covering topics such as security models, security mechanisms, and security management. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information security risk analysis, covering topics such as risk assessment, risk management, and risk mitigation. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.
Provides a primer on cybersecurity for information systems professionals, covering topics such as cybersecurity threats, cybersecurity risks, and cybersecurity controls. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.
Provides a unique perspective on security, focusing on the human element. It covers topics such as social engineering, phishing, and identity theft. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.
Provides a psychological perspective on security, covering topics such as the psychology of risk, the psychology of trust, and the psychology of deception. It valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of these topics.

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