| Assignment 1 | Assignment 2 | Assignment 3 | Assignment 4 |
| pdf version | pdf version | pdf version | pdf version |
| Word version | Word Version | Word Version | Word Version |
| P1 P2 M2 | P3 P4 M3 | P5 P7 D2 | P6 M1 D1 |
Description of unit
Ensuring the security of computer systems and, crucially, the information that is held
on computer systems is vital. Organisations and customers require confidence in
these matters and it is critical to the successful deployment and use of ICT. Security
in this unit covers physical security of computer systems as well as software-based
security using, for example, passwords, access rights and encryption.
Occasionally, security problems relate directly to malicious intent but in other
circumstances, for example software piracy, they can occur unknowingly or by
accident.
The successful completion of this unit will ensure that all learners and new entrants
to the IT industry understand the underlying principles as well as being able to apply
these principles to ensure the security of the systems they will using. Specific
technologies, risks and preventative measures are considered as well as
organisational issues, constraints and policies that impact security.
Usually security measures are in place to serve and protect our privacy and our
rights. Security procedures can threaten these rights, for instance the right to have
private email. The trade off between security and freedom raises important ethical
issues and this unit also allows learners to consider ethical decisions and how they
can be managed effectively in a modern organisation.
Learning outcomes
1 Know potential threats to IT systems and organisations
2 Understand how to keep systems and data secure
3 Understand the organisational issues affecting the use of IT systems.