Computer Security Fundamentals

A one-volume introduction to computer security

Dr. Chuck Easttom brings together complete coverage of all basic concepts, terminology, and issues, along with all the skills you need to get started. Drawing on 30 years of experience as a security instructor, consultant, and researcher, Easttom helps you take a proactive, realistic approach to assessing threats and implementing countermeasures. Writing clearly and simply, he addresses crucial issues that many introductory security books ignore, while addressing the realities of a world where billions of new devices are Internet-connected.

This guide covers web attacks, hacking, spyware, network defense, security appliances, VPNs, password use, and much more. Its many tips and examples reflect new industry trends and the state-of-the-art in both attacks and defense. Exercises, projects, and review questions in every chapter help you deepen your understanding and apply all you've learned.

Learn how to:

• Identify and prioritise potential threats to your network
• Use basic networking knowledge to improve security
• Get inside the minds of hackers, so you can deter their attacks
• Implement a proven layered approach to network security
• Resist modern social engineering attacks
• Defend against today's most common Denial of Service (DoS) attacks
• Halt viruses, spyware, worms, Trojans, and other malware
• Prevent problems arising from malfeasance or ignorance
• Choose the best encryption methods for your organisation
• Compare security technologies, including the latest security appliances
• Implement security policies that will work in your environment
• Scan your network for vulnerabilities
• Evaluate potential security consultants
• Master basic computer forensics and know what to do if you're attacked
• Learn how cyberterrorism and information warfare are evolving