CS 481C - Special Topics

Credits: 3

Special Topics in Applied Cybersecurity This course offers students a hands-on cybersecurity learning experience through Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. CTF is a type of cybersecurity competition where participants are tasked with solving security-related challenges to capture “flags” ? which are usually strings of text or files hidden within the challenges. CTFs are popular in the cybersecurity community, especially for training, learning, and honing skills in areas like hacking, cryptography, and network security. The main goal is to exploit vulnerabilities, crack code, reverse-engineer programs, or solve puzzles related to cybersecurity. When feasible, a team will be formed to compete in national and international CTF tournaments. Students will be trained to tackle CTFs with attack and defense components. Software reverse engineering, exploitation, web security, cryptography, forensics and binary analysis are some of the topics covered. This course is heavily discussion and practicum oriented. It will include a mix of lectures, discussions, and student presentations. Students are responsible for in-class discussion and completing CTF challenges and projects. Prerequisite: CS 220, Arch with a Prog. Perspective. Recommended: CS 320 - Advanced Computer Architecture & CS 350 Operating Systems ? for knowledge of computer architecture, network architecture and Linux-based operating systems. Expected to be offered at least once a year.