Network Systems Security
In my CS 464 Network Systems Security course, taught online by Professor Darich Runyan, I delved deeply into the multifaceted realm of network security, focusing on critical topics such as authentication methods, securing network infrastructures, and understanding the implications of various cyber-attacks. The course provided a thorough examination of network vulnerabilities, including port scanning, buffer overflows, SQL injection, and distributed denial-of-service attacks, while emphasizing advanced persistent threats and the intricacies of data exfiltration. I also gained a solid foundation in cryptography, exploring key concepts like symmetric encryption, message digests, and public key cryptography. This foundational knowledge was essential for analyzing security protocols across different layers of the network stack, such as IPSEC for Layer 3 and SSL/TLS for Layer 4, allowing me to appreciate how these protocols contribute to overall network integrity and security.
Course Material
Throughout the course, I engaged in a series of homework assignments that were instrumental in deepening my understanding of key concepts. For example, the assignments on “Public-Key Cryptography and Message Authentication” and “Symmetric Encryption and Message Confidentiality” required me to apply theoretical principles to practical scenarios, enhancing my analytical skills and technical proficiency. These tasks not only solidified my grasp of cryptographic techniques and their applications in securing communications but also fostered a critical mindset necessary for assessing vulnerabilities and implementing effective security measures. By completing these assignments, I was able to translate complex theoretical knowledge into actionable insights, reinforcing my commitment to a career in cybersecurity, particularly in roles focused on network defense and security architecture. The inclusion of these assignments as artifacts highlights my ability to tackle real-world security challenges and demonstrates my readiness to contribute to the field.