Why Computer Security
Why Computer Security
Types of Firewalls.
Introduction to Cloud Security.
Text Books:
• Internet
• Computers are all connected and interdependent
• This codependency magnifies the effects of any
failures
The Definition of Computer Security
• Security is a state of well-being of information
and infrastructures in which the possibility of
successful yet undetected theft, tampering, and
disruption of information and services is kept
low or tolerable
• Security rests on confidentiality, authenticity,
integrity, and availability
Security Threats and Attacks
• A threat is a potential violation of security.
• Flaws in design, implementation, and operation.
• An attack is any action that violates security.
• Active adversary
• An attack has an implicit concept of “intent”
• Router mis-configuration or server crash can also
cause loss of availability, but they are not attacks
What is a virus?
A computer virus is a small program written to alter the way a computer operates,
without the permission or knowledge of the user.
•It must execute itself. It will often place its own code in the path of execution
of another program.
•It must replicate itself. For example, it may replace other executable files with
a copy of the virus infected file. Viruses can infect desktop computers and
network servers alike.
Trojans contain malicious code, that, when triggered, cause loss, or even theft, of data. In
order for a Trojan horse to spread, you must, in effect, invite these programs onto your
computers.
for example, by opening an email attachment.
What is a worm?
Worms are programs that replicate themselves from system to system without the use of a
host file. This is in contrast to viruses, which requires the spreading of an infected host file.
Worms generally exist inside of other files, often Word or Excel documents.
The entire document will travel from computer to computer, so the entire document should
be considered the worm.