In an increasingly interconnected world, the need for robust and secure networks has never been greater. The Higher National Diploma (HND) in Network and Security is designed for students who want to build a strong foundation in the design, implementation, and protection of computer networks. This program combines the latest networking technologies with comprehensive security strategies, preparing students for critical roles in safeguarding digital infrastructure. The course provides in-depth knowledge of networking principles, data communication, and the core technologies that power modern IT systems. Students will gain practical expertise in network design, management, troubleshooting, and performance optimization, as well as the essential skills required to protect networks from cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks. Topics covered include network protocols, firewalls, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), intrusion detection systems, encryption, risk management, and ethical hacking.
PROGRAMME |
SEMESTRE |
DURATION |
CREDIT |
PARTNER INSTITUTION |
ACCREDITATION |
NETWORK SECURITY |
2 SEMESTERS |
2 YEARS |
120 |
MINESUP |
|
CORE OBJECTIVES
1. Network Design and Management
- – Networking Fundamentals : Learn about network architecture, protocols, IP addressing, and subnetting.
- – Routing and Switching : Study the principles of routing, switching, and the configuration of routers and switches.
- – Network Infrastructure : Learn how to design and implement secure and scalable network infrastructures.
2. Cyber Security Principles
- – Introduction to Cybersecurity : Study the basic principles of cybersecurity, including threat landscapes, attack vectors, and defensive mechanisms.
- – Cryptography : Learn encryption techniques, key management, and how cryptography ensures data security.
- – Cyber Attack Prevention : Understand common cybersecurity threats and methods for preventing them, including firewalls and antivirus technologies.
3. Network Security Implementation
- – Firewalls and VPNs : Learn to configure and manage firewalls and VPNs to secure networks.
- – Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) : Study techniques for detecting unauthorized access and preventing attacks.
- – Access Control : Learn to manage user authentication, authorization, and the principle of least privilege.
4. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
- – Penetration Testing Methodologies : Understand the steps involved in ethical hacking, including planning, scanning, exploiting, and reporting.
- – Vulnerability Scanning : Learn how to use penetration testing tools to assess security weaknesses in networks.
- – Exploitation Techniques : Study common attack techniques used by ethical hackers and how to mitigate vulnerabilities.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
1. Network Engineer
- – Role : Design, implement, and maintain networks (LANs, WANs, cloud networks) to ensure efficient and secure communication between devices and systems.
- – Skills : Network configuration, routing and switching, troubleshooting, network performance optimization.
- – Potential Employers : IT companies, telecom providers, government organizations, financial institutions.
2. Cybersecurity Analyst
- – Role : Monitor, detect, and respond to security threats, ensuring the integrity and safety of networks and systems.
- – Skills : Threat analysis, vulnerability scanning, incident response, encryption, firewalls, IDS/IPS configuration.
- – Potential Employers : Tech firms, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, cybersecurity consulting firms.
3. Systems Administrator
- – Role : Manage and maintain an organization’s IT infrastructure, ensuring system performance, security, and data backup.
- – Skills : Server management, system security, user access control, patch management, disaster recovery.
- – Potential Employers : Corporations, educational institutions, tech startups, non-profit organizations.
4. Network Security Administrator
- – Role : Administer and enforce security policies across networks, ensuring all devices and systems are protected against cyber threats and unauthorized access.
- – Skills : Firewall configuration, VPN management, network security protocols, access control.
- – Potential Employers : Corporations, tech companies, government entities, security firms.
5. Information Security Manager
- – Role : Develop, implement, and oversee the information security strategy of an organization to protect its digital assets and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- – Skills : Risk management, security policy development, compliance management, incident response, leadership.
- – Potential Employers : Corporations, financial institutions, consulting firms, government agencies.