Course Information
Course: – Introduction to Cyber Security – Technical Foundations
Credits: 2-2-3
Term: AY Fall
Prerequisites: None
Course Description. This course is a hands-on, lab-based course that provides a technically focused introduction to the principles behind the use, function, and operation of computers, networks, and applications with an emphasis on cyber security.
Learning Outcomes.
- Explain why the Cyber Domain is important to the Navy, a Junior Officer, and an individual, and why it is an important component of modern warfare.
- Describe computers, operating systems, networks, and the Internet. Analyze digital representations of information, basic computer and network operations and associated tools, and their underlying architectures and protocols.
- Identify and describe the principles and desired properties of defensible information systems, and the techniques and tools that are used to provide them.
- Explain, differentiate, and perform actions related to offensive and defensive cyber operations.
- Identify the user’s responsibility regarding technology and explain the consequences of potential user actions in terms of risk and the tradeoff between services and security.
Notice: You will learn concepts with cybersecurity tools that could be used unethically or illegally. Do NOT use knowledge or experience gained for unethical purposes. You MAY NOT use tools and techniques learned in this class to violate USNA policy or any other Government restrictions on information system use. You should never employ offensive cyber tools or techniques on any information system without the express written consent of the information system owner or legal authority.
Course Map
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This course has been divided into two key concepts across the cyberspace domain:
- Defining the Digital World
- Conduting Risk-Informed Cyber Operations
Course Policy
Course Policy. It is requried for all faculty and students to read and understand the course policy for Academic Year (AY). Reach out to your professor or course coordinator for any questions or concerns pertaining the policy and requirements set forth in the document. This policy applies to all sections and students enrolled in the course for AY.
SCY Honor Policy. The Cyber Science Dept Honor Policy is made available online.
Course Resources
Website. This website is the official resource for all course materials and will be updated to provide the latest information. The public link has been redirected to the internal website until technical issues have been resolved. In the meantime, it is required to be on the yard or remotely accessed to view this course webpage.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) and Remote Access. It is important to configure and ensure proper VPN/Remote Access anytime off-yard. This setup needs to be completed before it is needed. Remote access allows you to connect to internal sites and networks that are not accessible by the general public. Detailed instructions on configuring VPN is available on the Intranet at ITSC - Remote Access & SSL VPN Instructions
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Note: Anywhere you see the icon indicates a link that requires you to be on the yard or remotely accessed using the VPN connection.
Remote Server. Besides the issued laptops provided for class, a remote Linux server has been configured for students to access. This will be required to complete assignments and exams. The primary server that will be used is going to be the Secure Shell server available at .
Virtual Desktop Environment (VDE). Accessing systems for conducting assignment activities shall utilize the VDE through the VSphere client located at https://vcenter.cyber.usna.edu/. Additional information will be provided throughout the course on when to use the VDE.
Blackboard. Assignments and Exams will be administered through Blackboard (https://usna.blackboard.com/ultra).
- Unless otherwise noted, homework assignments will be made available on Mon at 0730 and due the following Monday by 2200.
- Unless otherwise noted, lab assignments will be made vailable on Tue at 0730 and due the following Monday by 2200.
- Exams will require the Respondus Lockdown Browser. You may be directed to perform functionality checks of Respondus when nearing exams.
Academic Resources
XS110 – Supplemental Instruction to . The Center for Academic Excellence offers XS110, a 1-hour (0-credit) extra study session for . Supplemental instruction courses do not have an associated grade with them, and can be added or dropped anytime during the semester. The XS110 schedule is available in MIDS. Ask your Academic Advisor or Instructor for further information.
Midshipmen Group Study Program (MGSP). MGSP is an evening study program run by Midshipmen for Midshipmen. There is no requirement to make an appointment to attend an MGSP session, you will be asked to sign in at MGSP sessions.
Extra Instruction (EI). If you are struggling with course material or want to dig deeper into the course material, seek extra instruction. See your Instructor for their office hours.
Academic Center (AcCenter). Tutoring services are provided by qualified staff with additional review sessions held prior to exams. You may visit their website at https://www.usna.edu/AcCenter/ or review additional information posted on the course calendar.
Nimitz Library. The library provides many excellent research opportunities for midshipmen. The Cyber Science Subject Specialist is Sarah Lopez (lopezs@usna.edu).
History of
is a plebe-year (first year) core course that began in AY2012 (Fall CY2011). It is not very often that such a fundamental change in the USNA curriculum occurs, so it is important to understand how it came about, and to see how much time, effort and care went into the decision to introduce the course.
Acknowledgements. Many people had a hand in bringing SY110 to the USNA curriculum. This link acknowledges many of the people that were an important part of this effort. We apologize for anyone we've missed. |
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