Basics of Computer Systems, Networking, Encryption and Security: Computers 101 for HKS Students PART 2

This 4-part class is a basic introduction to computer systems, networking, and how the Internet works, including all lower-level protocols and technologies that pull the Internet together. After mastering the basics, we will move on to the layers above, including security products and actual attacks against computer systems and the networks. There will be a full session on encryption and related technologies and how they fit into the overall Internet system.

We assume that students will have very basic knowledge of computer systems, but the class WILL be technical and hands-on. Students will be required to bring computers with them in order to do in-class exercises in real time.

This class will give students a strong background in technical matters, enabling them to take security and technology related classes at HKS and be fluent in technology matters in their future careers. 

Class 2: Network and host security products 
Part 2 will cover enterprise and personal security products. This will include network security systems (firewalls, deep packet inspection, VPN's, basic IDS/IPS systems and host security products (anti-virus, lockdown, blacklist/whitelist, intrusion detection and prevention, etc.).

Instructor:

Utsav Sohoni is a student in the mid-career MPA program at HKS. His professional background in computing is focused on software security and encryption, and he worked on some early problems surrounding online credit card transaction security. Utsav is currently an active duty officer in the United States Navy, where he has spent a number of years as a technical instructor.