Introduction to network security¶

The current pervasive networking enables the use of software and services anytime and from anywhere. At the same time, the network dependence of systems, software, services and hardware platforms makes network structures an attractive target for attackers. Security threats are constantly present everywhere on the network. Disruptions targeting critical, everyday functions as well as attacks against communications disturb the functioning of society. This module examines the challenges specifically related to protecting networks during different kinds of attacks. The focus is primarily on various networking technologies and widely used security protocols, as well as new security challenges and the solutions required for protection.

This module also provides background knowledge for understanding other areas of competence, for example module Security measures and security incident management. Understanding the basic network protocol stack and the most popular network protocols is also essential for implementing secure connections. Today, implementing network security requires understanding the operation of networks built using a wide variety of technologies and data transmission methods. This is particularly important when aiming to ensure overall security at all stages of data transmission.