KF7031 - Wireless Networks and Security

The module will be delivered using lectures, laboratories and a supported research assignment. It will be assessed via an examination and a research paper. The examination will focus on material from the lecture series and the research paper will be used to assess the research assignment.

Staff will deliver both lectures and laboratory sessions and support you during your assignment. The module is supported by discussion forums that can be used to explore issues outside of classroom time.

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)

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Critical appraisal of the global nature of WLAN standards and design.
2. To gain critical understanding of the core concepts in wireless and mobile communication technologies, modelling of wireless channel, security threats and vulnerabilities associated with wireless networks.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3 Critically analyse security protocols associated with wireless local area networks (WLANs) as well as apply specialist knowledge to design and evaluate a secure wireless network.
4. Critically evaluate and apply suitable security measures to protect wireless networks against known vulnerabilities

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Demonstrate ability to work in culturally diverse groups and teams and make appropriate and personal contributions to team effectiveness.

It will be assessed via an examination and a research paper. The examination will focus on material from the lecture series and the research paper will be used to assess the research assignment.

Formative assessment though out module, covering all LO's
The exam will cover LO's 1-5
The assignment will cover LO's 2-5

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This module is designed to be suitable for a variety of networking professional roles including those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of 802.11 protocols, security and mobile networks and their security protocols, their weaknesses and how to protect against known attacks.. Additionally, it is suitable for wireless network administrators and support or design staff requiring a greater understanding of the new technologies and applications of modern converged networks and delegates seeking Certified Wireless Security Professional certification. You will study the following areas:

Wireless and mobile networks Security and their inherent vulnerabilities
WLAN networks security protocols
WLAN networks vulnerabilities and how to protect against them,
Different wireless networks weaknesses and vulnerabilities. (NFC, Bluetooth, Mobile, infrared)


You will be assessed using by 1) Using an exam style aligned to professional examinations in this subject and 2) a research-based assignment where you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to do original work.