EECE 571K

Cryptography and Communication Network Security

3 credits

Course Description:
With the popularity of applications such as e-commerce, e-health and e-government, there is an acute need for information security, especially considering the omnipresence of cyber threats. Without security measures to achieve an adequate level of confidentiality, integrity and availability, such applications would be infeasible. This course will cover a variety of technical methods that can be employed to provide communication network security, with a focus on cryptographic techniques. An overview of current best practices is also included. The course will provide students with an in-depth understanding of fundamental concepts and methods in cryptography and how they can be used to ensure information security. Specific topics include :

  1. Security threats in communication networks
  2. Classification of measures to counter security threats
  3. Cryptography and cryptanalysis
  4. Symmetric key algorithms
  5. Public-key cryptosystems
  6. Cryptographic hash functions
  7. Digital signature and authentication protocols
  8. Blockchain for implementing decentralized security solutions
  9. Intrusion detection and prevention
  10. Standards and best practices

Textbook:
No required textbook.
Recommended books:

  1. W. Stallings, Cryptography and Network Security, 7th edition, Pearson, 2017
  2. B. Schneier, Applied Cryptography, 2nd edition, J. Wiley, 1996

Course Policies:
The course will consist of lectures and student project presentations. Students will work individually or in a group on a term project of their choice. A project report and presentation are required at the end of the term.
Grading:

  • Two in-class quizzes: 60%
  • Project presentation and report: 30%
  • Two assignments: 10%

Projects and Assgnments:
Students are permitted to study in groups. For assignments, each student must submit his/her own individual work. The term project can be a group project. Collaboration with individuals outside the group is not permitted. Submitting another individual’s work as your own is academic misconduct. If you are not sure about what you can discuss, please check with the instructor.
Exams:
Students are required to strictly abide by University of British Columbia policies and any special rules for conduct set out by the examiner.
Homework and Report Late policy:
All homework assignments and project report are due on the day specified by the instructor. Penalties will apply to late submissions.
Office Hours: 
The normal office hours of the instructor will be posted. Students can consult with the instructor at other times by appointment.
Student honour code:
All students will adhere to UBC academic integrity rules. Academic misconduct will be reported to the Dean of Students. 

More Information

UBC Course Page