FIT3186 · Vulnerability analysis, response and mitigation

Overview

This unit covers advanced concepts in computer security, designed to equip you with practical skills for securing systems, networks, and applications. The unit blends theory with hands-on experience in labs, aligning with real-world industry practices. You will learn security principles, authentication mechanisms, cryptographic protocols, incident response strategies, network defense tools, and security auditing techniques. The unit culminates in a project where you design, implement, and present security solutions. The aim of the unit is to provide you with a solid understanding of computer security architecture components and mechanisms and how they work together at the various architectural layers. You will be able to design and implement secure real-world systems.

Areas of study: Cybersecurity

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Explain core principles of computer security and their application in real-world systems.
2. Configure and manage authentication, access control, and cryptographic mechanisms
3. Detect, report, and respond to cyber incidents effectively
4. Implement secure programming techniques to mitigate vulnerabilities
5. Deploy and evaluate network security tools such as firewalls, IDS, and honeypots
6. Use auditing tools to analyze and secure IT infrastructure
7. Present and document a complete security solution through a real-world vulnerability.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled online and face to face learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated reading and preparation for scheduled teaching activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.