FIT1047 - Introduction to computer systems, networks and security - 2019

The unit introduces students to fundamentals of computer systems, networks and security. It provides basic knowledge of computer organisation and architecture, operating systems, networking architecture, technology and operation. It introduces the concepts of security goals for protecting common modern computer systems and communication networks from adversaries and the deployment of suitable countermeasures to achieve these goals.

At the completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. analyse simple logic circuits;
2. explain and analyse key computer structure and its operations;
3. analyse and evaluate various strategies used by an operating system in managing the system resources and running applications efficiently;
4. describe the operation of communication and networking models and develop simple solutions to network problems;
5. critically assess the security threats and risks to an organisation's information assets and propose suitable security control technologies that can be applied to reduce the security risks.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes): 50%; In-semester assessment: 50%

Minimum total expected workload equals 12 hours per week comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • Two hours lectures
   • Two hours tutorials/laboratories
2. Additional requirements (all students):
   • A minimum of 2-3 hours of personal study per one hour of lecture time in order to satisfy the reading, tute, prac and assignment expectations.

See also Unit timetable information

Computer networks and security

Cybersecurity