Free online courseCryptography and Network Security

Course Description

The "Cryptography and Network Security" course is an extensive deep dive into the critical domain of cybersecurity. Spanning a total duration of 14 hours and 43 minutes, this meticulously crafted course resides under the broader category of Information Technology, specifically within the subcategory of Cyber Security. The curriculum is designed to provide a robust foundation and an in-depth understanding of cryptography and network security principles.

The course begins with a comprehensive "Introduction to Cryptography and Network Security," setting the stage for more advanced topics. Students will gain insight into the CIA Triad, which forms the bedrock of information security principles, focusing on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The OSI Security Architecture is discussed in detail, providing a framework for understanding various security mechanisms and their implementation in network architecture.

The journey continues with an exploration of different types of Security Attacks and the various Security Services essential for safeguarding data integrity and confidentiality. Students will also learn about the Network Security Model, which encapsulates the strategies and methods used to protect data during transmission over networks. Core cryptographic principles are unpacked through subjects like Cryptography, Cryptanalysis, and Brute Force Attacks.

To apply theoretical understanding, the course delves into a variety of classical encryption techniques including the Caesar Cipher, Monoalphabetic Cipher, Playfair Cipher, Hill Cipher, and Polyalphabetic Ciphers. Each method is explored through detailed explanations and practical examples to reinforce learning. Steganography also makes an appearance, demonstrating the art of hiding information within other file formats for secure communication.

Shifting gears, the curriculum covers Abstract Algebra and Number Theory essentials, crucial for understanding advanced encryption methods. Topics include Prime Numbers, Modular Arithmetic, and algorithms like the Euclidean and Extended Euclidean algorithms, highlighting their significance in cryptographic applications. Fermat's Little Theorem and Euler's Theorem are discussed, along with various methodologies for testing primality and solving discrete logarithm problems.

Terms such as Stream Cipher vs. Block Cipher and the Feistel Cipher Structure come to life through detailed breakdowns. The course also covers cryptographic algorithms like the Data Encryption Standard (DES) and the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), walking students through their structures, transformations, and key scheduling processes. Multiple Encryption techniques and their security implications are likewise examined.

Block Cipher Modes of Operation, including Electronic Codebook (ECB), Cipher Block Chaining (CBC), Cipher Feedback (CFB), Output Feedback (OFB), and Counter Mode (CTR), are dissected to illustrate how they contribute to cryptographic security. The course also discusses Pseudorandom Number Generators (PRNG) and Golomb’s Randomness Postulates, critical for generating secure cryptographic keys.

To round off the comprehensive learning experience, the final modules on Public Key Cryptography and Hash Functions provide a holistic view of system practices in cryptographic security. Despite being an extensive and thorough breakdown of cryptography and network security, the course manages to provide an accessible and engaging learning journey for individuals seeking to solidify their grasp on these essential IT security concepts.