Course

INF240 Data security

Credits (ECTS):5

Course responsible:Guang Yang

Campus / Online:Taught campus Ås

Teaching language:Engelsk

Course frequency:Annually.

Nominal workload:Digital lecture: 36 hours; Digital exercises: 15 hours; Colloquia and self-study: 74 hours.

Teaching and exam period:

The course will be taught in the January block.

The exam is in the January block.

About this course

The course covers topics involved in the computer security domain. The introduction starts with an introduction to cryptographic theory and security principles of message confidentiality and authentication. Followed by the introduction of various network security applications, including:

  • Key distribution and management,
  • User authentication,
  • Digital signature,
  • Network access control,
  • Transport-level security,
  • IP security,
  • Wireless network security.

Learning outcome

The course aims to provide an overview of developments in computer security. After this course, students will understand central security problems, be able to define the threats to computer and network systems and evaluate the relative risks. Students will also be equipped with up-to-date countermeasures, and be able to work with security administration and system design. It also paves a foundation for further study in the security field.
  • Learning activities
    The course will be mainly digitally, contains lecturings and lab exercises.
  • Teaching support
    All learning support resources will be linked at the course webpage in Canvas. In addition to this, students can agree to contact the responsible teacher in the office during meeting times or via e-mail.
  • Recommended prerequisites
    Foundations in linear algebra such as included in MATH113/MATH131, MATH122/MATH123 or equivalent.
  • Assessment method

    3,5 hours written exam.

    The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.



  • Examiner scheme
    An external censor will participate together with the internal censor in forming the exam and censor guide. The external censor checks the internal censor's assessment of a random selection of candidates as a calibration at certain intervals in line with the faculty's guidelines for grading.
  • Mandatory activity
    Assignment/Lab submissions. Rules for approval of compulsory activities are announced at the start of the course.
  • Teaching hours
    A typical lecture day structure including: digital lecturing and self-study/exercises.
  • Admission requirements
    REALFAG