COM6014 Fundamental Security Properties and Mechanisms

Aims/Description: This wide-ranging module covers some fundamental concepts, properties, and mechanisms in security, e.g. identity, authentication, confidentiality, privacy, anonymity, availability and integrity. Cryptographic algorithms are explored together with major attacks (using a break-understand-and-fix approach). High level security protocols are explored (passwords, graphical passwords, key distribution and authentication protocols) together with some rigorous mechanisms for reasoning about their correctness (e.g. belief logics). Other mechanisms such as biometric authentication are also covered.

Restrictions on availability: An ability to program in a commonly used language, e.g. Java or Python. Some very basic familiarity with probability.

Staff Contact: CLARK JOHN

Teaching Methods: Lectures, Problem solving, Independent Study

Assessment: Course work

Information on the department responsible for this unit (Computer Science):

Departmental Home Page

Teaching timetable

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Teaching methods and assessment displayed on this page are indicative for 2025-26.