Colorado State University

Welcome to CS 556: Computer Security. This course is open to graduate students and seniors in computer science, engineering, advanced technology, and mathematics. 

We live in an information age increasingly shaped by the pervasive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data-driven technologies. Organizations leverage vast amounts of information to gain strategic and operational advantages, while cyber-physical systems and the Internet of Things (IoT) collect data from the physical world to deliver intelligent, personalized services. As information continues to be an important asset, protecting its confidentiality, integrity, and availability throughout its lifecycle is critical.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of computer security, emphasizing both technical foundations and societal implications. Students will examine mechanisms that safeguard systems and data from unauthorized access, misuse, and attack, as well as explore the challenges of securing AI-driven and data-intensive environments. A special focus is placed on privacy-preserving technologies and the ethical use of data in an era of pervasive surveillance and algorithmic decision-making.

2025 Fall Semester Details