Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Cybersecurity Concepts and Security Principles

In this module, we will introduce the basic cyber security concepts, enable you to identity root causes of vulnerabilities in a network system and distinguish them from the threats from both inside and outside. We will analyze the enabling factors of recent cyber attack incidences and discuss the basic security services for their defense and triage. We will introduce the risk management framework for analyzing the risks in a network system, and apply the basic security design principles to protect the data and secure the computer systems. Trust is critical and in the center of any secure systems. We will examine the source and authenticity of the programs and data installed in systems we used daily and show the proper way to check their integrity, and verify their authenticity.

Protect Data Access and Verify Source of Trust

In this module we apply principle of least privileges for controlling the proper access given to users and system process. We will demonstrate such an access control by using an example of project document access control using the Unix file access mechanism. We use OPM data breach example to show the impact and the need for principle of adequate data protection. Trust is critical and in the center of any secure systems. We will examine the source and authenticity of the programs and data installed in systems we used daily and show the proper way to check their integrity, and verify their authenticity.

Using GPG to Sign/Verify Software

In this module, we introduce GPG software tool for generating public key private key pair for signing/verifying the documents and to encrypt documents, and publish our public key on our web server and PGP key server for others to retrieve. We will use GnuPG software tool to verify the common opensource software packages such as apache and putty. We will also learn how to sign software and the proper way to list the software package, their pgp signature, and our signing public key on a web site.

Be a CA, Setup Secure Server and Client Certificate

In this module, we will learn the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), how CA operates, and the certificates signing and verification process. We will utilize the utility command in a Linux system to serve as a CA for an organization, learn how to sign certificate request for clients or servers both secure email or secure web access purpose. We will earn how to generate server certificate requests as a webmaster, send them to CA for signing and install the signed certificates in Apache web server for secure web access. We will also set up apache web server for requiring clients to present their client certificates for mutual authentication. We will also guide you to set client certificate on browser for mutual authentication and on a mail client for signing and encrypting emails.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in cybersecurity concepts like vulnerabilities and threats

Teaches basic security design principles to protect data and secure computer systems

Utilizes GPG software for signing and verifying software, essential for ensuring software authenticity

Examines Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), a cornerstone of secure communication and data protection

Covers risk management frameworks for analyzing risks in network systems, a critical skill in cybersecurity

Reviews summary

Secure networked systems: know the basics

Learners say that the course is difficult and contains challenging content, but it is a rewarding experience for those who are up for it. The course is well received by learners, but there are some drawbacks, including poorly delivered video tutorials, difficult-to-understand instructors, and confusing assignments. Despite these drawbacks, the course offers hands-on projects and engaging assignments that help learners develop a deep understanding of the material. Overall, learners who are looking for a comprehensive and challenging course on secure networked systems may find this course to be a valuable learning experience.

The assignments are engaging and helpful for learning.

"This is a very intuitive and flexible course upon deadlines. The instructor has control over the course hence making understanding very simple"

The projects in this course are helpful and practical.

"The hands on projects are essential to understanding the material."

The course is not well organized.

"The course could be better organized. From a security perspective, it should be accurate, not careless and cumbersome."

"But unfortunately, there are many mistakes within the organization of this course ranging from spelling mistakes to placing quizzes & assignments before a video that covers the subject."

The video tutorials are poorly made.

"Really poorly delivered video tutorials. Spelling and grammar errors throughout. Not what I would expect from a university."

The instructions for completing activities are not clear.

"instructions are not clear and specific."

"I couldn't complete because I could not get the Amazon services. The instructions are not even working."

The instructor's english is often hard to understand

"it was really hard to understand the instructor's speech.PDFs for assignments are too long and distract from the main point."

"The lecturer has a weak command of English and imagines that there is value in reading word for word from his slides."

This course requires a lot of prior knowledge. Those that lack it will have difficulty succeeding

"this is not beginner course, very hard to listen without subtilties, and the aws lab its a disaster"

"it was really hard to understand the instructor's speech.PDFs for assignments are too long and distract from the main point."

"The lecturer has a weak command of English and imagines that there is value in reading word for word from his slides."

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 Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems with these activities:

Review Cyber Security Concepts

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Review the basic concepts of cyber security to ensure you have a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Security Principles

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Read the course syllabus and identify the topics covered in the first module.
Review your notes or textbooks from previous courses on cyber security.
Take an online quiz or practice questions to test your understanding.

Practice Identifying Vulnerabilities and Threats

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Practice identifying vulnerabilities and threats in a network system to improve your defensive capabilities.

Browse courses on Vulnerability Assessment

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Set up a virtual environment or use an online platform to simulate a network system.
Use tools and techniques to scan the system for vulnerabilities and threats.
Analyze the results and identify the potential risks.

Attend an Industry Cyber Security Meetup

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Attend an industry meetup to connect with professionals in the field and learn about the latest trends and best practices.

Browse courses on Networking

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Find a local cyber security meetup or conference.
Prepare a brief introduction and be ready to discuss your interests.
Network with attendees and share your knowledge.

Three other activities

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Complete an Online Course on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

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Enhance your understanding of PKI and its role in securing online transactions.

Browse courses on Public Key Infrastructure

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Find a reputable online course or tutorial on PKI.
Set aside time each week to complete the lessons.
Participate in discussions and ask questions to clarify your understanding.

Design a Cyber Security Incident Response Plan

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Develop a comprehensive plan to mitigate the impact of cyber security incidents.

Browse courses on Incident Response Plan

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Identify potential cyber security risks and threats.
Establish procedures for detecting and responding to incidents.
Test and refine the plan through simulations and exercises.

Contribute to an Open-Source Cyber Security Tool

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Gain practical experience in cyber security and make a meaningful contribution to the community.

Browse courses on Programming

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Identify an open-source cyber security project that aligns with your interests.
Review the project's documentation and codebase.
Suggest improvements or fix bugs, following the project's contribution guidelines.

Career center

Learners who complete Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Cybersecurity Architect

Cybersecurity Architects design and implement security solutions to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They work with other IT professionals to develop and implement security policies and procedures. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Cybersecurity Architect by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Architect

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts design and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They also monitor and analyze security breaches and develop plans to prevent future attacks. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as an Information Security Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Security Engineer

Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They also work with other IT professionals to develop and implement security policies and procedures. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Security Engineer by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect an organization's computer networks. They also work with other IT professionals to develop and implement security policies and procedures. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Network Security Engineer by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Penetration Tester

Penetration Testers identify vulnerabilities in an organization's computer networks and systems. They use their knowledge of security tools and techniques to identify potential security breaches and develop strategies to mitigate them. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Penetration Tester by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Cybersecurity Consultant

Cybersecurity Consultants help organizations to identify and mitigate cybersecurity risks. They work with clients to develop and implement security strategies and solutions. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Cybersecurity Consultant by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Consultant

Security Auditor

Security Auditors assess the effectiveness of an organization's security measures. They identify vulnerabilities and make recommendations for improvements. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Security Auditor by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Auditor

Information Security Manager

Information Security Managers oversee the development and implementation of security policies and procedures. They also manage the organization's security team and budget. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as an Information Security Manager by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Manager

Risk Manager

Risk Managers identify and assess risks to an organization's business. They develop and implement strategies to mitigate these risks. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Risk Manager by providing you with a strong foundation in risk management principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

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IT Auditor

IT Auditors assess the effectiveness of an organization's IT systems and controls. They identify vulnerabilities and make recommendations for improvements. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as an IT Auditor by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

Network Administrator

Network Administrators manage and maintain an organization's computer networks. They ensure that the network is running smoothly and securely. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Network Administrator by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators manage and maintain an organization's computer systems. They ensure that the systems are running smoothly and securely. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Systems Administrator by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They ensure that the software is working properly and securely. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Software Engineer by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They ensure that the websites are working properly and securely. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course can help you prepare for a career as a Web Developer by providing you with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. You will also learn how to use GPG to sign and verify software, and how to set up a secure server and client certificate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They ensure that the databases are working properly and securely. The Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems course may be useful for Database Administrators by providing them with a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts, risk management, and security design principles. However, it is important to note that this course does not focus specifically on database security.

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