KV5058 - Secure Operating Systems

What will I learn on this module?

This module aims to provide experience in the practical use and application of an operating system in a network environment and how to secure them. You will learn to design and implement essential network services required for a commercial organisation within different operating systems, and learn about how to protect them.

‘Secure Operating Systems’ will prepare you for later modules such as Computing Group Project, Advanced Security and Enterprise Networks and Security, as well as for a placement in your third year. Employers are looking for skilled cybersecurity engineers who can work as individuals and as members of a team in analysing computer networking problems and applying effective solutions with the knowledge of operating systems.

During ‘Secure Operating Systems’ you will work through a series of exercises, implement network services and apply them to business needs, make use of Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs and digital security lab. You will also critically engage with research outputs as part of your research-rich learning. The main element in assessment (100%) will be a final assignment that will bring together all your new skills and techniques.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through lectures, workshops, and independent learning. The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to tackle a series of guided exercises. You will work on these during workshops and hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s CIS building computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported by lecturers during the timetabled sessions when you will receive feedback on your work. The University’s eLearning Portal offers remote access to all lecture and seminar materials to reinforce your learning. In addition, the university library offers support for all students through providing electronic resources.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Understanding of operating system principles in networked environments by accurately explaining OS functions using appropriate terminology and applying this knowledge for the delivery of secure OS services.
ML02 - Select appropriate services and features of an operating system for secure computer network implementation.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML03 - Design and develop a computer networks and applications using standard operating systems and services

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML04 – Effectively formulate responses to well defined problems in both written and oral form.

How will I be assessed?

The main element of summative assessment (100%) will be a single coursework assignment that brings together all your new skills and techniques. The assessment includes two parts: practical lab (50%) and Report (50%). You will be required to develop a computer network application within selected operating systems.

You are also required to write a report (2000 words), that shows your critical understanding of the given tasks and of fundamental principles and concepts. You will receive both informative and confirmatory feedback on your assessments. This assessment addresses all Module Learning Outcomes.

On an on-going basis you will also receive formative feedback on exercises you are required to complete. Formative assessment comprises a variety of theoretical and practical exercises, with opportunities for discussion with tutors and colleagues. This formative assessment addresses Module Learning Outcomes – ML01 – ML03 – ML04.

Pre-requisite(s)

NA

Co-requisite(s)

NA

Module abstract

This module introduces you to the theory and practice behind computer networks and operating systems, which are fundamental services for Internet applications from video streaming, to online gaming, to e-commerce. The module will help you understand the basic ideas of networks and operating systems including socket programming, process management, deadlock detection, prevention, and recovery. You will get to know the emerging challenges in industry and understand the latest research insights. You will enhance your technical skills through hands-on practices in well-equipped computing laboratories. Your learning progress will be assessed through workshops and a single coursework assignment in which you will build a substantial project and demonstrate your theoretical and practical knowledge in a report. This module will present you with a new angle to look at computing systems, secure your position on the stage of Internet and boost chances of success when starting a new career or a business.

Course info

UCAS Code G417

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Computer Science

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

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