Digital Systems and Security (GSS508)

GSS508 Digital Systems and Security, addresses the critical need for robust security practices to safeguard digital infrastructures from an ever-growing array of threats. From malware and data breaches to sophisticated cyber-attacks, the vulnerabilities in digital systems impact everyone— ranging from individual users to global corporations and governments. The course goes beyond basic cybersecurity, covering a broad spectrum of issues including data integrity, system availability, and the resilience of digital systems. Students will explore the complexities of security across various domains, from software and networks to human factors and organisational policies. Emphasising a holistic approach, the course integrates both technical and non-technical dimensions of security, recognising that successful protection of digital systems requires not only advanced technical knowledge but also an understanding of business processes, human behaviour, and organisational culture. Through real-world examples and case studies, students will learn how to identify security risks, design secure systems, and implement strategies to prevent and respond to cyber threats. The course will also examine the ethical and legal challenges associated with digital security, as well as the role of governance and policy in shaping security practices. By the end of the course, students will gain the skills and insights needed to build resilient digital systems and embed security into the core of organisational operations.

• Introduction to Digital Systems Security
• Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors
• Data Integrity, Confidentiality, and Availability
• Network Security and Firewalls
• Encryption and Cryptography
• Access Control and Authentication
• Security in Cloud Computing
• Security Governance and Risk Management
• Human Factors in Security
• Incident Response and Disaster Recovery
• Legal and Ethical Considerations in Digital Security
• Emerging Technologies and Future Security Trends

• Discuss key threats to digital systems, including malware, phishing, and cyber-attacks, and understand their impact on information security
• Examine the principles of data integrity, availability, and confidentiality within the context of digital systems
• Appraise security frameworks and best practices to design and implement secure digital systems.
• Analyse organisational vulnerabilities and evaluate the effectiveness of security policies and strategies.
• Assess legal and ethical issues related to digital security, including data privacy and regulatory compliance.
• Formulate comprehensive security solutions that integrate technical, human, and organisational factors to protect digital infrastructures.